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Kajiado County Launches Sensitization Campaign to Eradicate Ipomoea in Matapato South
Kajiado County Launches Sensitization Campaign to Eradicate Ipomoea in Matapato South
County Government of Kajiado,through the Department of Environment,Natural Resources & Climate Change today marked a significant step toward restoring degraded rangelands with the official launch of a community sensitization campaign aimed at eradicating Ipomoea (locally known as Oltiameleteti) in Matapato South Ward.
The event, held at Maili Tisa, was graced by Mr. Michael Semera, CECM for Water Services, Environment and Natural Resources, and Mr. Francis Sakuda, CECM for Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries. Also present were Mr. Peter Pushati, Director of Climate Change, Mr. Eric Ahenda, Director of Livestock, other county officials, and local community members.
The Ipomoea plant has been classified as a major threat to the environment, grazing lands, and livelihoods in various parts of Kajiado, particularly in Kajiado East and Central. Once it spreads, the plant suppresses the growth of grass and other vegetation, making large areas of land unproductive and unsuitable for livestock grazing.
At the event in Maili Tisa, Matapato South, Mr. Michael Semera, emphasized the urgent need to tackle the spread of Ipomoea, an invasive plant that threatens local livelihoods. He said, “It’s heartbreaking when it rains and our animals have nothing to feed on because the land is covered by Ipomoea. We must act now,together to save our environment and protect our way of life.” Mr. Semera also encouraged local communities to take action at the household level, adding, “With the 10 community groups leading the way, let’s also remove this weed from our homes and compounds. Every effort, big or small, makes a difference.” This initiative is part of the larger Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) program, a climate action strategy aimed at building resilience across Kajiado County.
The community was actively engaged in the launch, with demonstrations on how to identify, uproot, and safely dispose of the invasive plant. The sensitization exercise also included the distribution of grass seeds to community groups, aimed at regenerating cleared land with pasture to support livestock and soil health.
As part of this campaign, the County Government has set aside 30 acres of land as a demonstration site, where community members will lead the efforts to clear Ipomoea and restore the land with support from technical officers.
The collaboration between government departments, local leaders, and the people of Matapato South shows that sustainable change is possible when everyone plays their part.
