Teso North Member of Parliament Oku Kaunya has called on farmers in his constituency to consider abandoning tobacco farming in favor of alternative crops such as avocado and coffee. He cited the occupational health risks and environmental concerns associated with tobacco production, emphasizing the need for a change. Kaunya made these remarks during a tree-planting exercise at Achiya Echakara Training Institute on Mazingira day.
According to Kaunya, nicotine can be absorbed through the skin when farmers handle wet tobacco leaves, potentially causing green tobacco sickness. This has significant implications for the health and well-being of farmers who engage in tobacco farming. Furthermore, he raised concerns about the environmental effects of tobacco curing, noting that some farmers have previously cut down trees for firewood, contributing to deforestation and reduced tree cover in the area.
Kaunya also urged National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) to intensify community sensitization on tree growing and encourage residents to plant trees within their respective areas of jurisdiction. This initiative aims to promote environmental conservation and support Kenya's target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032. The goal is to increase the country's tree and forest cover to more than 30 percent.
Teso North Deputy County Commissioner Solom Kitai reported that 2,000 trees had been planted during the exercise, with similar activities planned for schools and communities. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to achieve Kenya's ambitious tree-planting targets. Kitai emphasized the importance of community involvement in tree growing and conservation.
Teso North Forest Officer Florence Ogana advised residents to prioritize indigenous tree species, citing their suitability for the local environment. She noted that trees with deep roots can help stabilize soil and reduce erosion in the constituency, which has sandy-loam soils. This is particularly important in areas prone to heavy rains.
Ogana also highlighted the need for increased tree cover along the Northern Corridor, particularly the Bungoma-Malaba Highway. Heavy traffic in this area contributes to carbon dioxide emissions, which can exacerbate climate change. By planting more trees, residents can help mitigate these effects and support environmental conservation.
The tree-planting exercise was part of a broader effort to promote environmental conservation and community engagement in Teso North. By working together, local residents, government officials, and community leaders aim to create a more sustainable and environmentally conscious community. The initiative is expected to have a positive impact on the local environment and the health of residents.
Key points
- Kenyan MP Oku Kaunya urges farmers to shift from tobacco to avocado and coffee due to health risks and environmental concerns.
- The initiative aims to promote environmental conservation and support Kenya's target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032.
- Teso North has planted 2,000 trees as part of a broader strategy to achieve Kenya's ambitious tree-planting targets.
