Environment experts in Homa Bay County have called on residents to actively participate in wetland conservation, highlighting the crucial role these ecosystems play in sustaining biodiversity and combating climate change. Speaking during World Wetlands Day celebrations at Tom Mboya University, Homa Bay NEMA Director Josiah Nyandoro emphasized that wetlands, which cover soil either permanently or seasonally, are under threat from human activities such as pollution, wildfires, and encroachment. He urged both public and private institutions, as well as individuals, to work together to safeguard the county’s 60 wetlands, only three of which are currently gazetted.
Climatologist Clifford Omondi noted that wetlands are vital in mitigating climate impacts, providing essential tree cover that helps reduce environmental stress. County Chief Officer for Environment Donald Ogweno highlighted their importance for aquatic life, particularly fish breeding, while Kenya Airports Authority’s Angela Tilitei announced a collaborative project to plant 50,000 tree seedlings across schools, prisons, and public spaces in the county. The partnership aims to strengthen forestry and environmental stewardship, linking tree planting with the broader protection of wetlands and water resources.
Officials stressed that protecting wetlands is critical for the county’s future, ensuring sustainable livelihoods and a healthier environment for coming generations. With the government committed to gazetting more wetlands and providing funding for conservation, stakeholders hope coordinated efforts will address current threats and encourage community engagement. Nyandoro and other experts concluded that preserving wetlands is not only an environmental necessity but a social and economic imperative for Homa Bay.