Kenya, Tanzania vow to conserve Mara ecosystem

Kenya and Tanzania governments have reaffirmed their commitment to saving the Mara River Basin ecosystem, which is facing various threats.

These include climate change, human activity and environmental degradation.

Kenya’s EAC Principal Secretary Abdi Bubat and Tanzania’s Mara Regional Commissioner Evans Mtambi reiterated their government’s resolve to addressing the threats facing the ecosystem.

They spoke at Sekenani in the Masai Mara National Game Reserve during celebrations to mark the 13th Mara Day on Sunday. Tanzania will host next year’s event.

Dubat was the chief guest, while Mtambi led the delegation from Tanzania.

“There is an urgent need for continued cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania,” Dubat said.

He said joint commitment to the sustainable management and conservation of the Mara River Basin is not only a duty but also a legacy they must protect for future generations.

“In response to the growing threats posed by climate change and human activities, we have embarked on an ambitious mission to plant 15 billion trees over the next decade," he said.

"This large-scale reforestation effort is a significant step towards mitigating environmental degradation and enhancing the resilience of our ecosystems.”

Dubat said the initiative is not just about planting trees but a comprehensive strategy aimed at combating climate change, reducing carbon emissions and restoring ecological balance.

“By rejuvenating our forests and natural landscapes, we are securing a sustainable future for our rivers, wildlife and communities,” he said.

Mtambi called for joint efforts in sustainably managing the Mara River Basin.

“Tanzania has put in place laws and regulations on the management of transboundary resources. Mara River Basin faces serious threats from human activities. We have no option but to conserve the basin,” he said.

Lake Victoria Basin executive secretary Masinde Bwire called for the conservation and sustainable management of the Mara River’s natural resources.

He said they are are vital to the livelihoods of millions of people and wildlife in the region.

“The celebration has fostered cross-border cooperation between Kenya and Tanzania in protecting this vital water source,” Bwire said.

“It has engaged local communities in conservation efforts, enhancing their livelihoods through sustainable practices.”

He added: “Additionally, the capacity of the Transboundary Water Users Association has been strengthened, bringing together a diverse group of water users, local communities, water managers, and decision-makers from both Kenya and Tanzania, the two nations sharing the Mara River.”

Bwire called on Kenya and Tanzania to enhance cooperation through joint conservation programs, management plans, and regulatory frameworks to help in conserving the ecosystem.

In attendance were Uganda’s EAC PS Edith Mwanje, Narok Deputy Governor Tamalinye Koech and speaker Davis Dikkir, Maasai Mara University Vice Chancellor Peninah Obudho and EALA MP David Sankok.