On February 20, 2025 a momentous engagement for partnership took shape as the Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter N. Mwita hosted a delegation from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) as part of a groundbreaking initiative to adopt the Kaimosi Wetlands.
This followed a courtesy call meeting made in 2024 by Prof. Charles K. Ngome NEMA's Board Member to the Acting Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Peter N. Mwita, during which, the University expressed its intention to rehabilitate the wetland ecosystem, an essential step in enhancing wetlands restoration and conservation.
The visit brought together NEMA officials from the headquarters, Nairobi and those from the County Government of Vihiga, key community stakeholders, including representatives from Garagoli Community-Based Organization and East Africa Yearly Meeting Friends Quakers (EAYM). This further reinforced the collaborative framework essential for effective environmental management. NEMA's approval of KAFU’s request to adopt the Kaimosi Wetlands marks a significant move toward mobilizing academic resources in the fight against environmental degradation and climate change.
The day's activities began with a strategic meeting between the Acting Vice Chancellor and the NEMA team, followed by extensive field visits across the Wetlands. Participants examined critical areas including the Amatsi Water Services Company (AWASCO) and the riverbanks, thoroughly assessing both sides of the pathway from Shamakhokho to Kaimosi.
The Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Peter N. Mwita hosts NEMA delegates at his office
Field visit at Amatsi Water Services Company
In the afternoon, a comprehensive PowerPoint presentation highlighting vital findings from the field analysis was held among stakeholders to prepare a conclusive report on the way forward of the project. The consultative meeting, which ended at 6:00pm, featured a briefing from NEMA officials to the Acting Vice Chancellor on actionable insights and future strategies.
The Head of Ecosystems at NEMA, Issak Elmi, said that this initiative underscores the ongoing Government’s efforts to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, reinstate and safeguard wetlands and their related catchments. “I commend Kaimosi Friends University for embarking on a precious journey to rehabilitate and conserve the Kaimosi wetland together with other stakeholders,” he stated.
In his final remarks, Prof. Mwita reaffirmed KAFU's commitment to the 'Adopt-a-Wetland Initiative,' part of a wider national endeavor spearheaded by NEMA. “Restoration of the Kaimosi Wetland is set to enhance sustainable management. We will collaborate with other agencies including the Water Resources Authority, Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), AWASCO, and the National Government Administrative Office (NGAO). By combining diverse expertise and resources, the initiative aims to promote conservation efforts while bolstering vital climate change research,” he said.
Prof. Mwita further reiterated a noteworthy aspect of KAFU’s strategy: the established Centre of Excellence in Climate Action and Research (CECARE), launched on November 7, 2024. “This dedicated center aims to drive innovative research and solutions surrounding climate action, fostering an environment where faculty and students actively contribute to sustainability efforts. Complementing CECARE is a well-grounded student Environment and Culture club, which empowers participants to engage in hands-on environmental initiatives and awareness campaigns,” he emphasized.
A significant milestone approaches as both KAFU and NEMA prepare to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to formalize their partnership. This agreement will not only set the stage for the development of academic programs centered on Environmental Sciences, Development Studies, and Sustainable Development but will also reinforce KAFU’s role in advancing climate action.