Kenya’s government has raised alarms over the rampant land degradation across the country. Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya disclosed that at least 91% of Kenya is undergoing some form of degradation due to unsustainable land use practices. These practices include improper ploughing, inappropriate rotations, inadequate management of plant residues, overgrazing, unchecked urbanization, land fragmentation, and over-pumping of groundwater.
“64% of Kenya’s landmass is experiencing high degradation and 27% severe degradation,” said CS Tuya, referencing the 2016 land degradation assessment report by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources. This report remains the most comprehensive study on land degradation in Kenya.
Speaking at Maiyanat Community Conservation in Laikipia, Tuya warned that these unsustainable actions are driving desertification and exacerbating drought conditions. “This will subsequently plunge communities into further challenges if we do not act now. Certainly, the challenges will be more pronounced among the most vulnerable members of our society, largely women and children,” she emphasized.
In response, Tuya highlighted the Ministry’s efforts through the implementation of the National Environment Policy, 2014. This framework policy focuses on sustainable environment management, addressing desertification, land degradation, and drought control. Additionally, the National Landscapes and Ecosystems Restoration Strategy aims to support the 15 Billion Tree Growing Initiative.
To combat desertification and drought, the government collaborates with local communities and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in Laikipia and other Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL) counties. Among these partners is The Nature Conservancy (TNC), which works with NEMA and other entities to manage invasive species in Laikipia.
One of their key efforts involves controlling the spread of opuntia, an invasive shrub, using cochineal insects that feed on the succulent, gradually killing it. This initiative has helped restore native grasslands, which are vital for pastoralist communities.
TNC has also spearheaded gulley healing projects, crucial for preventing soil erosion and retaining water in the landscape during prolonged dry periods. Successful gulley plugging in Maiyanat Community Conservancy has revived several springs and streams.
Moreover, TNC promotes nature-based enterprises like grass seed banks, which not only generate income for local women but also aid in land restoration. The grass banks project enables communities to sell seeds and plant them to stabilize soils and improve pasture.
Kenya marked the World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought on Monday, reaffirming its commitment to addressing these pressing environmental issues.
