As the world grapples with the mounting effects of climate change, journalists in the Lake Region have gone beyond the newsroom to make a tangible contribution to environmental conservation.
To mark Mazingira Day, members of the Lake Region Journalists Network (LRJN) rolled up their sleeves and joined other partners in planting hundreds of tree seedlings at the Kajulu Catchment Area in Kisumu.
The initiative, undertaken under the banner “Restoration and Protection of Kajulu Catchment,” reflects a growing recognition that media practitioners are not only storytellers but also key players in shaping the narrative and driving action on climate change.
“As journalists, we report daily on the devastating effects of deforestation, droughts, and floods. Today, we chose to become part of the solution — to act,” said Josephat Odhiambo, the network’s chairman.
The Kajulu Catchment, a vital water source for communities around Kisumu, has faced years of degradation due to human encroachment and erratic weather patterns. The reforestation effort aims to restore the area’s natural ecosystem, enhance water retention, and create a buffer against soil erosion — critical steps in mitigating the broader impacts of climate change.
Tree planting remains one of the simplest yet most effective tools in combating global warming. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality, conserve water, and provide habitats for wildlife.
By planting trees, the journalists and their partners are contributing directly to Kenya’s national target of achieving 30% forest cover by 2032 — an ambitious but necessary goal to ensure ecological stability.
Beyond the environmental impact, the exercise also carries a symbolic message — that climate action begins with individual and collective responsibility. By taking part in this initiative, the Lake Region Journalists Network demonstrated that leadership on climate matters goes hand in hand with awareness, advocacy, and hands-on participation.
“We hope our gesture inspires communities, institutions, and leaders to take similar steps. Climate change affects us all, and every tree planted is a small victory for our shared future,” shared David Opiyo, the outfit’s secretary general.
As the seedlings take root at Kajulu, they stand as living symbols of hope — reminders that protecting the environment requires more than words; it demands action.
The event was hosted by Kisumu Water and Sanitation Company with partners such as the Kisumu City and the likes, thronging the event in solidarity who clarified newly established climate action policy across the county which will ensure a robust forest cover.
“The born and the unborn must plant a tree…all the discharged patients must carry a tree for planting,” emphasized Abala Wanga, the Kisumu City Manager.
