UN Environment. (2020, February 11). Kenyan women fight invasive species by planting indigenous trees. Retrieved June 29, 2020, from https://www.unenvironment.org/news-and-stories/story/kenyan-women-fight-invasive-species-planting-indigenous-trees

Zipporah Matumbi, a Kenyan environmental activist, is involved in a program called the Tree Establishment for Livelihood Improvement Scheme that works to preserve indigenous trees in forests overrun by invasive species. For example, the eucalyptus tree is invasive in the environment she lives in, and its large consumption of water affects the river levels; this, in turn, prompted her to bring together a group of women to plant native African bamboo in its place. What started as a small project has evolved exponentially as she is now in charge of 12 different groups. They are currently focused on replacing the invasive lantana camara flower with native trees to help the environment.

Matumbi’s hands-on manner of dealing with invasive species has greatly inspired many women to volunteer with the Kenya Forest Service in her area, once again reinstating the importance of an informed public when dealing with invasive species and environmental issues in general. It’s interesting to hear about their approach to preventing the spread of the lantana by digging up the roots “to suppress their regrowth and prepare the area for rehabilitation by introducing indigenous trees”. Her emphasis on protecting the environment shows beyond her volunteer work– she’s brought in experts to learn how to avoid dependency on unsustainable methods and forest practices, as well as encouraging members of her local community to dispose of lantana on their own properties and farms. This communal system is really fascinating and shows how when an entire community is committed to protecting their local ecosystems and environments, change is more accessible and less daunting than it may initially seem.