Bungoma Deputy Governor Advocates for more KWS/KFS Positions for Mt.Elgon

By Isabella Maua

Bungoma Deputy Governor Janepher Mbatiany has called upon government to set aside more slots for Mt. Elgon residents in Forest and Wildlife Departmental recruitment.

Speaking during the flagging off of 64,000 tree planting campaign at Kaberua forest in Mt. Elgon, the deputy boss urged the Regional Commissioner to apply affirmative action in future recruitments.

“The best people to take care of forests and wildlife are the inhabitants who’ve coexisted with nature all their lives and definitely Mt. Elgon residents are the perfect candidates,” she said.

Echoing her sentiments, the Regional Commissioner Irungu Macharia pledged to heed to the call and ensure the people’s lamentation is amicably solved.

“We shall collectively work with associated partners to ensure these projects create more employment opportunities to the people especially residing near the forests so that they can provide sufficient protection to it while upgrading their living standards,” affirmed Macharia.

While addressing the local ‘baraza’ at Kaboywo, Rose Akombo, Western Region Forest Conservator applauded the commendable job done by scouts within the region assuring them that the next Forest and Wildlife recruitment will be fair and transparent.

“We apologize for the long distance candidates had to travel to Bungoma for the last recruitment and after the decry from your deputy governor we shall consider your plea,” reiterated Akombo.

Moses Sichei, Chief Officer for Environment, Tourism and Climate Change also challenged the area residents to maintain the water tower in Mt. Elgon because lack of oxygen is now a global issue.

He further divulged that they’ve set up a committee which is looking into financing globally made climate change action where each ward will be allocated Ksh .50 Million.

The residents were also challenged to avoid overdependence on trees for firewood and timber and instead embrace environment friendly energy saving sources.