TİKA Supports the Fight Against Climate Change in Kenya

Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TİKA) has launched a significant project to combat climate change in Kenya’s Makueni Province. In cooperation with the Makueni Governorate and the Ahadi Achievers Empowerment Association, a community nursery equipped with a one-ton capacity solar-powered rainwater collection pool and a drip irrigation system was established in the Kisau region.

This initiative aims to rehabilitate lands damaged by drought and flooding. It focuses on cultivating local plant species that promote soil and water conservation, enhance biodiversity and thrive in arid and semi-arid climates.

As part of the project, seed and seedling support was provided for cultivation in the community nursery.

Additionally, seeds supplied by TİKA were introduced to encourage the growth of eco-friendly tree species and income-generating fruit species that meet both the fuel and nutritional needs of the local population.

Makueni Governor Expresses Gratitude to Türkiye

Before the official opening, Makueni Governor Kivutha Kilonzo welcomed the TİKA delegation and expressed his appreciation for the close cooperation between Türkiye and the province. He highlighted the positive impact of TİKA’s development projects in Makueni and shared his enthusiasm for collaborating on more joint initiatives in the future.

Goal: Enhancing Forest Recovery Rates

Kenya has adopted a national reforestation policy with the aim of significantly increasing forest coverage by 2030, marked by two annual public holidays dedicated to Arbor Day.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nicholas Nzioka, Director of Decentralization, Public Participation and Special Programs in Makueni County, highlighted the nursery’s capacity to produce 500,000 saplings annually. He emphasized that this initiative will contribute to Kenya’s ambitious goal of raising its forest recovery rate from 12-14% to 30%.

2030 Target: Planting 15 Billion Trees

TİKA’s Program Coordinator in Nairobi, Yasemin Cansuz Kurt expressed support for Kenya’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2030 stating, “This year, we have implemented similar projects across many arid and semi-arid provinces in Kenya. Our aim is not only to enhance the environment but also to expand economic opportunities for women.”