Coast Development Authority known for its innovative approaches to environmental conservation has introduced the revolutionary Vallerani technique to combat soil erosion and reduce land degradation within Mwache catchment in Kinango Sub-county.
The technique originally designed for afforestation activities has proved to be a game-changer in the conservation of soil and water. It involves the use of specialized equipment that mechanizes the process of terracing, allowing for efficient and effective soil and water conservation measures. This equipment will hasten the restoration of the Mwache catchment, expediting the process of rejuvenation.
Within a span of approximately two months, the equipment has successfully facilitated the establishment of approximately 52km of terraces in Nyongoni WRUA. This accomplishment is noteworthy considering that, if the CDA had continued with manual methods, the same task would have taken two financial years to complete. The adoption of the Vallerani equipment will certainly ensure CDA covers more ground in the exercise, than what is currently being achieved.
CDA through meetings and frequent barazas is encouraging the Mwache community to plant vetiver grass that will ensure sustainability of the terraces. This the Authority says will be achieved by the use Champions who after adopting the technology will act as ambassadors.
During a recent visit by the World Bank support mission on the progress of the project it wasagreed that wananchi in the area need to be encouraged to adopt the technology. CDA Managing Director Dr. Mohamed Keinan says that he is committed to ensuring that the Mwache dam project is completed successfully. He also applauded the collaboration between CDA and other stakeholders in the project terming it as fruitful.
The implementation of the Vallerani technique will not only result in environmental benefits, but also increase agricultural productivity resulting in improved food security and economic stability. The surplus produce will allow the community to engage in trade.
