By John Kariuki
Garissa County witnessed a high-profile visit by Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Aden Duale, who spent the day inspecting ongoing programs by the Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI). Accompanied by Forestry Principal Secretary Gitonga Mugambi, Duale was received by Garissa Governor Nathif Jamaa and other county leaders. The visit centered on a pressing issue that has plagued the region for decades—Mathenge (Prosopis juliflora), an invasive tree species that has turned from a once-promising solution into an ecological nightmare.
Initially introduced for its ability to withstand drought and improve vegetation cover in arid lands, Mathenge has instead become a ruthless invader, choking farmlands, taking over grazing areas, and even damaging infrastructure. In communities across Garissa and other ASAL regions, its deep roots suck up already scarce water, leaving the soil dry and unproductive. Its thorns have maimed livestock, and its aggressive spread has made it a formidable enemy to farmers and herders alike. Recognizing the scale of destruction, the Kenyan government officially declared Mathenge a noxious weed in 2008.
Yet, in the midst of this environmental crisis, experts are now looking at Mathenge through a different lens—not just as a problem, but as an untapped resource. The very plant that has caused so much destruction could hold the key to economic transformation in the region. KEFRI, in collaboration with international partners including the International Labour Organization (ILO) PROSPECTS program and the Embassy of the Netherlands, is spearheading an ambitious initiative to turn this menace into a source of livelihood for thousands.
The strategy is simple but powerful—manage and exploit Mathenge rather than fight a losing battle against it. Through controlled harvesting, value addition, and commercialization, the project seeks to convert the tree into a source of income while restoring balance to the ecosystem. The plan includes producing high-quality charcoal, firewood, construction poles, and livestock fodder. Additionally, Mathenge’s flowers support honey production, opening up yet another economic avenue for local communities.
Beyond environmental conservation, the initiative is a lifeline for job creation. By mainstreaming Mathenge’s value chain and promoting new technologies, the project is creating sustainable employment opportunities in a region where economic prospects have been limited. This innovative approach is not just about saving the land—it’s about empowering the people who depend on it.
During his visit, CS Duale reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring degraded lands while ensuring that affected communities benefit economically from these interventions. He acknowledged the resilience of Garissa residents and emphasized that solutions to environmental challenges must go hand in hand with economic empowerment.
With the government and its partners pushing forward, the once-feared Mathenge could soon become a symbol of resilience and reinvention. For the people of Garissa and beyond, what was once a thorn in their side may just turn into a golden opportunity.