In a strong demonstration of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles, Controller of Budget FCPA Dr. Margaret Nyakang’o, alongside her dedicated team, participated in the 2024 Adopt a Forest Initiative held at the Kakamega Forest, Kakamega County, on September 14, 2024.

Dr. Nyakang’o waters the seedling she planted at Kakamega Forest

During her address, Dr. Nyakang’o highlighted the crucial role of prudent financial management in achieving sustainable outcomes. She assured participants that her office would fully support the ongoing maintenance of Kakamega Forest, emphasizing the importance of timely requisitions and verifiable progress reports to ensure financial backing. “Prudent management encompasses the wise use of all resources- financial, human, time, and natural assets like forests,” she remarked.

Dr. Nyakang’o expressed her delight in being part of the initiative, which saw over 1,000 trees planted in the iconic Kakamega Rain Forest. “This event has enabled my office to maximize the use of our resources by accomplishing multiple objectives simultaneously. I had the privilege of meeting H.E Governor Fernandes Barasa, contributing to environmental conservation, fulfilling a corporate social responsibility goal, promoting the mandate of my office, and distributing vital budget implementation review reports along with other educational materials,” she elaborated.

Dr. Nyakang’o during her speech

This impactful initiative was spearheaded by the Association of Women Accountants in Kenya (AWAK) in partnership with the Office of the First Lady of Kakamega County. Key supporters of the project included the Office of the Controller of Budget (OCoB), the Office of the Auditor General (OAG), the County Government of Kakamega, Kenya Forests Conservancy, Inspire Africa, the Kenya Forestry Research Institute, and other friends of AWAK.

Held in Kakamega Forest, Kenya’s only tropical rain forest, the initiative focused on reforestation and public awareness campaigns aimed at conserving this vital ecosystem. The initiative highlighted the importance of environmental stewardship and responsible governance, while also fostering strong social bonds within the community to protect and preserve the unique biodiversity of the Kakamega Forest.

Aligned with Governor FCPA Fernandes Barasa’s strategy to combat climate change through nature-based solutions, the initiative also echoed President William Ruto’s ambitious national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

Dr. Nyakang’o and Prof. Janet Barasa walking to the forest where the tree planting activity was taking place.

Participants were delighted to meet the Controller of Budget in person, with many remarking that they usually see her only in newspapers and on televisions. They expressed admiration for her work in ensuring the prudent use of public funds. The occasion provided a unique opportunity for Dr Nyakang’o to connect with the public.

In her closing remarks, Dr. Nyakang’o extended heartfelt gratitude the event organizers for inviting her office to be part of the noble cause, enabling it to demonstrate its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. She emphasized on the collective effort needed to keep Kakamega County green and environmentally conscious for future generations in order to make a positive impact.

Dr. Nyakang’o and Prof. Barasa pose with representatives from AWAK