The County Government of Uasin Gishu is set to collaborate with the International Crane Foundation/Endangered Wildlife Trust and Community Action for Nature Conservation partnership to protect the Endangered Grey Crowned Cranes and wetlands.
The main focus of the partnership was centred around the wetlands which provide crucial habitat for the breeding and survival of the grey crowned cranes, a species listed as endangered and requiring urgent conservation efforts.
The County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Agriculture, Mr. Edward Sawe, accompanied by Chief Officer, Mr. Elphas Kesio, embraced the strategy emphasizing the long-overdue attention to the conservation of habitats crucial for the grey-crowned crane’s existence.
Mr Sawe reiterated the County Government’s intentions in supporting the conservation program, highlighting the administration led by Governor Jonathan Bii’s deep interest in environmental sustainability and wildlife preservation.
He highlighted the integral role of birds, including grey crowned cranes, in agricultural ecosystems, emphasizing their positive contribution to farmers including but not limited to promoting soil fertility through nutrient cycling, control of harmful crop pests ultimately leading to substantial agricultural yields not forgetting the cultural role as the bird is a totem to one of the Kalenjin clans “the Kapkong’ony”.
“Conservation efforts targeted towards safeguarding habitats for grey crowned cranes align with the County’s broader objectives of promoting ecological balance and protecting biodiversity within the region” said Sawe.
Dr Joseph Mwangi, representing the International Crane Foundation (ICF), elucidated the Foundation’s global mission to conserve the existing crane species and their habitats worldwide.
According to Vivian Kitui and Neema Obiero, ICF/EWT/CANCO officers based in Uasin Gishu county, the heart of the foundation’s initiatives lies a dedication to climate-smart agriculture practices, aimed at promoting sustainable agricultural techniques that mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, promote sustainable land use practice and enhance food security.
The Foundation seeks to ensure the long-term well-being of cranes and their ecosystems by championing initiatives that address the interconnected challenges of climate change, habitat degradation, and species protection.
Deputy Director of Agriculture, Mr Ismael Asowa, said their partnership heralds a new chapter in biodiversity conservation, highlighting the critical importance of preserving habitats for endangered species like the grey crowned crane and fostering a harmonious relationship between human activities and the natural environment.
