Report On miyawaki tree planting conducted at Ondiri wetland on 18th December 2025
- By James Gichomo
- Biochemist
- Dec 18, 2025
Introduction
Miyawaki method was pioneered by professor Akira Miyawaki, a Japanese ecologist and botanist in 1970s. As a common activity of tree planting for birthdays in the Ondiri wetland, the objective of the process was to enhance ecological restoration, strengthening biodiversity and promoting community led conservation. The method emphasized dense mixed planting of indigenous tree species to accelerate forest regeneration.The credits to success of the activity goes to our Chairman FOWK, Mr David Wakogy for giving us directions and guidelines,the whole climate works staff who worked tirelessly and to the community, Thayus family, where the young boy turning 4years, marked his birthday in a style.
Location
Outer border planting
Sunflower (Hellanthus annuus) Was planted along the outer parts of the Kenyan Map borders. The main purpose of planting sunflowers at that location served purposes like acting as a buffer zone protecting inner species, improving soil structures and organic matter supporting pollinators the bees particularly and other beneficial insects as well as providing clear visual boundary for the planting site as the maturity is fast compared to the indigenous trees at the middle.
Inner border (core miyawaki zone)
The inner borders were planted with a mix of indigenous and ecoligically important trees suitable for Ondiri wetland. The inner tree species included prunus Africana, this had the greatest number since it is an endangered species, good for it medicinal significance and the canopy formation. Olea africana a hardy native species supporting birds biodiversity, warbugia ugandensis, Nandi flame that contributes to biodiversity and aesthetic value through flowering, Meru oak for soil stabilization, podo which is good for long term forest development and syzygium widely known for its medicinal significance. These species were planted in close proximity in line with miyawaki principles to encourage competition, rapid vertical growth and natural forest layering. A total of 120 indigenous tree species were planted and 2 outer lines of sunflower.
Significance
- Accelerates ecosystem restoration.
- Enhances carbon sequestration and climate resilience.
- Improves habitat for birds, insects, and small mammals.
- Strengthens the wetland by protecting soils and regulating the microclimate.
- Promotes community awareness on the importance of involvement in indigenous species conservation.
Conclusion
It was an impactful and successful conservation initiative. It aligned with the best ecological restoration practice. With proper aftercare, monitoring and community involvement, the planted trees are expected to establish a resilient Mini forest that will contribute to wetland conservation and biodiversity enhancement.
Recommendations
Regular mulching and watering during early establishment. Protection from grazing and human disturbance. Continuous monitoring and documentation of growth progress. Community engagement to enhance long term Stewardship. Generally, the day was a success and other adaptive strategies will also be considered in future.
