Wetlands are among the key habitats that provide basic needs and important ecosystem services for the planet. Either permanent or temporary, the role of wetlands to people and wildlife cannot be underestimated. Within the Mt. Kenya water tower, several wetlands have evolved to form key tributaries of rivers that are crucial sources of water to a vast population of people.
LWF’s Program Officer Peter Mathenge and Ng’arisha Mtaa’s team delivers tree seedlings to the Secret Valley. Photo credit: Ng’arisha Mtaa
Secret Valley, an area covered with marsh plants and grass sedges in the Mt. Kenya- Lewa Biosphere Reserve is among the remaining functional wetlands that has stood firm amidst climate change and habitat-destruction. Formerly known as Sacred Valley due to its spiritual characteristics, the area serves as a key catchment to River Nanyuki. While in the past the area was praised for its cultural significance and water supply, recent climate change devastation and forest destruction has exposed its declining ecosystem services, such as inadequate water to feed the Nanyuki River.
Stakeholders and volunteers gather at Secret Valley for the tree planting activity. Photo credit: Ng’arisha Mtaa
World Wetlands Day is a globally important day aimed at celebrating and raising awareness on protection of wetlands. LWF joined other partners at the Secret Valley to commemorate this day and rehabilitate the area. Under this year’s theme “protection of wetlands for our common future”, the Kenya Forest Service and the Kenya Wildlife Service led the clarion call of protecting wetlands that have continued to supply water despite the challenges experienced. Wetlands are not only important to people but serve as key sources of food and habitat for aquatic life.
The community, led by Mt. Kenya Forest Association Chairman Mr. Wachira, applauded the commitment to preserving the wetland, noting benefits such as flood control and cultural heritage as key sustainable provisions. Mr. Wachira called for the collaboration of stakeholders in ensuring sustainability especially to downstream users. The participants joined in by carrying out tree growing in areas adjacent to the wetland. In her statement, Madam Sarah, the Laikipia County Director of National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) reinstated the important roles wetlands play in wildlife conservation and people’s livelihoods. The KWS Warden, Mr. Mwasi, emphasized the role of collaboration in management of natural resources by calling on more inclusivity in environmental issues. He called for cross-sectional unity in creating a healthier environment for wildlife and people.
The celebrations mark LWF’s ongoing commitment in rehabilitation of water sources and degraded riparian areas. We call upon all stakeholders to join us in our mission for restoration and creating a more resilient community.
