The government has launched a major environmental restoration programme in the Cherangany Hills ecosystem amid growing concerns over climate-linked insecurity, deadly landslides and destruction of critical water catchment areas.

Deputy President Kithure Kindiki led leaders and stakeholders in unveiling the Ksh15 billion Cherangany Hills Ecosystem Restoration for Livelihood Improvement, Sustainability and Harmony (CHERISH) programme at Kapyego Ward in Elgeyo-Marakwet County.

The 10-year initiative seeks to restore degraded forests, improve climate resilience and support sustainable livelihoods in communities living within the Cherangany ecosystem.

Deadly landslides raise alarm

The launch comes months after the deadly Chesongoch landslide disaster, which exposed the growing impact of environmental degradation in the region.

The Cherangany Hills ecosystem spans more than 414,928 hectares across Trans-Nzoia, Elgeyo-Marakwet, West Pokot and Uasin Gishu counties and supports more than 22 rivers flowing into Lake Victoria and Lake Turkana.

However, leaders warned that unregulated human activities, including deforestation and encroachment, continue to threaten one of Kenya’s most important water towers.

“We have a constitutional duty as a nation, both collectively and individually, to conserve the environment,” Kindiki said.

The Deputy President noted that conservation efforts are critical in combating climate change, restoring degraded ecosystems and protecting vulnerable communities from future disasters.

Murkomen links climate change to insecurity

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen said environmental degradation has contributed to insecurity and conflict in parts of Kerio Valley.

“There is a close relationship between security and climate change due to climate-related conflicts,” Murkomen stated.

The CS said the CHERISH programme will focus on restoring forests, promoting peace and empowering communities through sustainable development initiatives.

“Our goal is to restore and replace trees in 40,000 hectares across the four counties,” he added.

Push to protect critical water tower

The programme also supports the government’s target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 as part of broader efforts to combat climate change and restore Kenya’s threatened ecosystems.

Several governors, MPs, principal secretaries and environmental stakeholders attended the launch, calling for stronger community participation in conservation efforts.

Leaders urged residents to support restoration activities to secure water resources, prevent future environmental disasters and promote long-term peace and economic stability in the region.