Migori – Climate change ambassadors in Migori County have urged for the decentralization of the 2023 Conference of Parties (COP 28) discussions to effectively address climate change goals at local levels.

According to Kenya News Agency, During a meeting at Migori Teachers Training College, Migori environmental ambassador John Bosco emphasized the importance of breaking down COP 28 discussions to national and county levels. This approach, he argued, would facilitate a more targeted and effective response to climate change mitigation needs. Bosco highlighted the necessity of community education on climate change through sensitization programs, with a particular focus on involving youths in environmental conservation and food system innovations.

Bosco also pointed out the significance of agroforestry in climate change mitigation. He noted that agroforestry, integrating forest and crop production, offers a solution to the challenges posed by reduced crop production due to land subdivision from population growth. This method promotes diverse, productive, and sustainable land use while addressing climate change.

Pamela Omwanda, an official from the Green Life NGO, shared that her organization has been educating farmers on agroforestry practices. She encouraged local farmers to plant tree seedlings compatible with farm crops, emphasizing soil conservation’s dual benefits for agriculture and forestry.

However, Omwanda noted a gap in understanding among farmers regarding climate change, underscoring the need for comprehensive sensitization for public appreciation of climate change mitigation measures.

Fred Odhiambo from The Devolution and Climate Change Adaptation Programme (DaCCA) highlighted the potential of organic green systems in assisting youth. This modern, climate-smart agricultural approach can generate income while addressing climate issues. Odhiambo stressed the importance of wetland conservation through these systems, which support climate change mitigation and global warming reduction.

He pointed out that planting crops like arrowroots in wetlands can stabilize water tables and act as environmental protectors. Odhiambo also lamented the adverse effects of eucalyptus planting on microclimate creation and tropical rainforests, leading to increased human-wildlife conflicts with species like banded water snakes, alligators, beetles, and bullfrogs.