Springs and wetlands
We have managed to restore,protect and conserve a 7km riparian stretch of the Isiolo River. While at it,11 major springs that had died are back on and discharging a significant amount of water to the existing flow.This is a major step as we continue working on another 10km of the same river.
Recently,the work to conserve Lewa,Ngarendare and Kisima rivers commenced.The first step of community engagement and sensitization is on and Osinoni seeks to use the same conservation model of Isiolo river that has so far been successful to impact the other rivers as well.
As a result of our efforts ,in the last two years hydrological assessments have shown that there is gradual, considerable increase in water volumes .The communities downstream are giving very positive testimonials especially even during the most hard-hitting drought seasons.
Biodiversity stability
Enhanced regeneration and ecosystem restoration in the banks of Isiolo River. From total bare, degraded riparian land to creepers, canopies and all layers of vegetation that are vital for biodiversity stability. By restricting movement along the rivers, the ecosystems are undergoing amazing healing and promising ecological transformation. The increase of bird ,baboon, vervet monkey populations, the come-back of butterflies, different species of vegetation is one of the key indicators of success in that particular aspect.
Protection of Indigenous trees
In the last 3 decades, there has been has an accelerated shift to exotic trees due to arguable reasons. This has exposed native forests and other vital spaces that have been there for centuries to much destruction. The key government agencies in the research field have lowered guard hence, leading to loss of some of the most important trees. Osinoni has managed to identify the key species that are endangered and while at it, made huge steps in bringing them back. Our project-Oreteti indigenous tree nursery and botanical garden is the backbone of the fight against extinction. These trees cut across from wetlands to drylands .
Rangelands
Huge steps have been made in rangeland management through working with the local Maasai community in the Enkare Ontare area bordering Laikipia and Isiolo counties of Kenya. So far, Osinoni has managed to teach the community through practicals about soil erosion control, reseeding, proper utilization and economic value behind some of the notorious invasive plants that have been preventing growth of grass. Livestock keeping and pastoralism is the dorminant economic activity and central source of livelihood for the residents. This led us to finding ways of ensuring that proper eco-interventions come into place because that is the only way to stop environmental degradation. Being a vast area that requires a lot of attention, we continue engaging stakeholders and securing right partnerships to ensure that we reach other communities across Kenya. The strong belief that Osinoni holds is that wetlands can’t be safe if the rangelands are exposed.
