Kenya has had several invasions of alien plant species that have a negative impact on biodiversity, agriculture, and human development.
As Ontulili Primates Protection is keen on expanding their tree seedling production, the women are keen not to produce seedlings that are listed as invasive trees species in Kenya. One of the trees presents along the riparian area, and also listed as an invasive species in Kenya, is the eucalyptus spp. Fortunately, it has not spread to the extent of being a threat locally at the moment.
The organization is keen on controlling its spread in the near future by constantly creating awareness among the residents on the side effects of the species. The organization will promote other species that can be used in place of eucalyptus. At the moment the organization plans on expanding its nursery seedlings propagation to twenty thousand seedlings annually to cater for the growing community demand and generate reward for the women. To achieve this target, some of the women have been involved in indigenous tree seed harvesting to propagate in the tree nursery.
Mount Kenya Trust has also been very supportive in ensuring the project achieves its target as they provide the potting materials, soil, and seeds. Mount Kenya Trust also offers exposure tours to ensure the ladies are equipped with the right skills for nursery management and production of healthy seedlings.
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