Empowering Widows and Protecting Nature: Rona Foundation’s Reforestation Efforts at Mbaga Hill
Jared Olola mala, Area chief (Alego) leading tree planting activity in Mbaga Hill: Photo by Felix Orwenyo, area chief Komolo sub-location.
The Tulinde Misitu project, an initiative by the Rona Foundation, embodies a holistic approach towards reforestation and environmental conservation, focusing on both the ecological well-being and sustainable livelihoods of widows in Siaya County. The primary goal is to increase forest cover and promote community engagement in managing and protecting Mbaga forest by 2024.
Beginning with the restoration of the degraded Mbaga Hill forest, the campaign addresses the dire environmental consequences of deforestation, such as water scarcity, drought, and soil erosion. Siaya’s forest cover stands at a mere 0.42%, emphasizing the urgency to plant trees and advocate for the gazettement of Mbaga forest for its protection.
Amongst other sensitization activities, the project on World Environment Day (1st June) with the planting of 2580 tree seedlings. It aims to not only reforest but also educate communities on environmental conservation to combat climate change. Schools play a pivotal role, with Environment Clubs formed in 5 primary schools, fostering knowledge transfer to families and friends through students. We have nurseries established in 3 schools, namely Mbaga Girls Primary – 3000 seeds, Mbaga Mixed – 3000 seeds, Gombe Komolo – 3000 seeds. Aiming for greener tomorrows!
Moreover, the campaign prioritizes enhancing the livelihoods of 8000 widows by providing training sessions in widow groups, climate change initiatives, climate-smart agriculture, and the construction of energy-saving jikos. So far, has educated three widow groups with 75 members, and 30 trained builders of energy saving jikos on climate-smart agriculture namely, cultivating climate-resilient crops like cassavas and bananas, along with establishing kitchen gardens for daily food needs.
The emphasis on training widows in climate-smart agriculture and promoting the use of energy-saving jikos underscores the campaign’s commitment to sustainable livelihoods and environmental responsibility. The smart jikos reduce charcoal and firewood consumption, directly mitigating deforestation caused by fuel and charcoal production.
FMC members debrief before a replanting activity at Mbaga Hill; photo by Felix Orwenyo, area assistant chief)
In summary, the Tulinde Misitu offers a baseline and stands as a remarkable initiative, actively contributing to reforestation, environmental conservation, and the socio-economic empowerment of communities. The integrated approach adopted by the projecr sets a promising path towards a greener and more sustainable future for Siaya County.
Anne Musungu, Communications Intern, Rona Foundation & Roseline Orwa, the Founder & Director of Rona Foundation, a grassroots organisation in Kenya that works to advance and protect widows’ rights, as well as provide support to orphans and vulnerable children. She is a lifelong Fellow of the Atlantic Social Economic and Equity Program at the London School of Economics for social and economic equity. An Aspen New Voices Fellow 2021, and a Storyteller with The Moth Africa. She tweets @Roseline Orwa.
