Trans-Nzoia County is gearing up for the launch of the Second Transboundary Biosphere Reserve in Africa, an initiative heralded as a game-changer for conservation, tourism, and sustainable development in the region. Leaders and stakeholders gathered this morning at the Trans Nzoia County Headquarters to deliberate on the preparations for this highly anticipated event.
Trans Nzoia County Deputy Governor H.E Philomena Kapkory expressed the County's commitment to supporting the launch, stating, "As hosts to two key water towers, Mt. Elgon and Cherangany Hills, we recognize our role in preserving these vital ecosystems. The Mt. Elgon water tower alone supports 100 million people, and we are determined to do our part to conserve it."
The Deputy Governor also highlighted the potential of the initiative to position Trans-Nzoia as a premier tourist destination. "This event will shine a spotlight on the untapped potential of Mt. Elgon as both a biodiversity hotspot and a tourist attraction," she added. She further assured that the County government, alongside local leaders, is ready to provide the necessary support for the event's success.
Stakeholders emphasized the importance of infrastructure development to accommodate an anticipated influx of visitors. "We need to ensure our bed capacity, transport, and other facilities are adequate to support tourism growth," noted Bakari Chongwa, Director of Kenya Wildlife Service. He revealed that the previous year saw over 2.2 million tourists visit Kenya and projected this number could rise to 5 million by 2030.
Godfrey Wekesa, the County Director of Water, Environment, and Natural Resources, underlined the ecological importance of Mt. Elgon. "This ecosystem provides water for over five community irrigation schemes and serves as a crucial carbon sink," he said. He announced plans for a sustainable forest management act and a County Climate Change Act to ensure the ecosystem's long-term protection.
The event, which also celebrates the region's biodiversity, is set to attract high-profile guests, including the Ugandan Prime Minister. The Kenya Commission for UNESCO confirmed that this will be only the second transboundary biosphere reserve on the continent, marking a significant milestone in regional and global conservation efforts.
"This is an opportunity to place Trans-Nzoia on the world map," said Amos Nyongesa, the Trans Nzoia County Tourism Director. "Our tourism businesses and local communities stand to gain immensely, and we must work together to make this a resounding success."
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