Local action for resilient wetlands and riparian lands of the Athi river basin in Kenya
and Kyra Pohlan
Communities throughout the Athi river basin rely on healthy and resilient semi-aquatic ecosystems, such as riparian and wetland areas, for their well-being and livelihoods. These habitats have become ever more important for local communities in adapting to the effects of climate change, in particular the more frequent and more extreme periods of drought and flooding. By conserving and re-establishing riparian lands and wetlands, groups from the Athi River Community Network do not only protect their immediate environment but also contribute to the well-being of downstream areas.
and Kyra Pohlan
Communities throughout the Athi river basin rely on healthy and resilient semi-aquatic ecosystems, such as riparian and wetland areas, for their well-being and livelihoods. These habitats have become ever more important for local communities in adapting to the effects of climate change, in particular the more frequent and more extreme periods of drought and flooding. By conserving and re-establishing riparian lands and wetlands, groups from the Athi River Community Network do not only protect their immediate environment but also contribute to the well-being of downstream areas.
When we think about water, our minds may wander towards vast oceans, rivers, and serene lakes. Yet, wetlands and riparian lands – the biodiverse, green strips of vegetation, along rivers, streams, and lakes – are frequently overlooked despite their critical role in the water cycle, as well as their contribution to people’s well-being and their capacity to adapt to climate change. The vegetation in these areas helps to stabilize stream banks, reduce soil erosion, moderate the pace of floodwaters, and absorb excess water during heavy rains – all contributing to prevent extreme flooding downstream. At the same time, these riparian and wetland areas act like sponges that can retain and slowly release water over prolonged periods of droughts. Moreover, these environmental ‘buffer zones’ filter out pollutants before they can reach larger water bodies, thereby maintaining water quality.
During our visit to the Athi River Community Network in May 2024, we witnessed first-hand how communities are taking the lead in protecting and restoring wetlands and riparian areas. Through this community network, MCDI has been connecting up and downstream communities to exchange with one another about their interconnectedness through the water cycle, as well as to learn about locally-led adaptation practices that not only protect but also enhance these critical ecosystems.
One example of community action is the planting of bamboo in the ‘Small Axe Riparian Park’ along the Gatharaini River, which – if managed responsibly – can help to stabilize riverbanks, prevent soil erosion, and even strengthen livelihoods through sales of bamboo. With the support from the Gathara-ini Water Resource Users Association (WRUA), the communities along this river managed to establish a riparian park that not only enhances their flood resilience and water quality, but also provides a space where neighbours can meet, exchange knowledge, or simply enjoy recreational activities and picnics. For example, with support from the same WRUA, community groups have engaged in various initiatives such as agroecological farming, nursing and sales of seedlings, and even the construction of an eco-toilet made of plastic bricks from waste that was caught in the rivers.
In short, these community efforts do not only restore the ecosystem functions and their ability to adapt to climate change, but they also enhance contribute to people’s well-being and the social fabric within and between the communities within the Athi river basin. The work being done by MCDI together with the Athi River Community Network shows; when communities are in the lead of conservation efforts, they do not only have ownership over the preservation of their lands but also develop a deep commitment to safeguarding their environment and contributing to community well-being for the long-term.
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