Kitui: The National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) has raised concern over illegal sand harvesting and charcoal burning within the lower eastern counties of Kitui, Makueni, Machakos, and Kajiado. The council highlighted that these activities are major threats to livelihoods in the region, contributing to deforestation and the drying of water sources.

According to Kenya News Agency, the lower eastern region NCCK chairman, Major Leonard Kasyoka, urged Members of the respective County Assemblies to enact laws to regulate sand harvesting and charcoal burning in the four counties. He emphasized that without proper legislation, local security authorities lack enforcement capabilities, allowing these practices to continue unchecked. Kasyoka added that the church is committed to ensuring local communities protect the natural environment.

The NCCK commended the Makueni County government for having legislation on sand harvesting to protect local rivers, which are crucial water sources for residents. Kitui County also enacted a bill earlier this year to regulate sand harvesting and protect local rivers from destruction.

The national religious umbrella organization expressed concern over recent use of force against unarmed protestors during nationwide demonstrations. NCCK Chairman Rev. Dr. Elias Ogola urged security agencies to exercise restraint and reaffirmed the church’s commitment to advocating for the protection of constitutional rights, including peaceful assembly and protest. Ogola spoke during the commissioning of the Kaloyo Earth Dam water project in Kitui South Constituency.

The Council has initiated several projects, including boreholes and water kiosks, to improve water supply in Kitui South Constituency, with plans to spend Sh500 million on water projects. NCCK collaborates with national and county governments to alleviate water scarcity in the region.

Additionally, NCCK addresses gender-based violence and teenage pregnancies, which are prevalent in Kitui South Constituency. According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey 2022, the pregnancy rate among girls aged 15-19 in Kitui County was 30 percent, indicating significant challenges in the area.