What was the challenge?
Kaluku River in Kaskeu, Makueni County was once a dead river as a result of unsustainable sand harvesting by local youth. Sand harvesting had taken over much of the productive agricultural land, denying the community sustainable livelihoods and leading to the loss of economically important crops such as mangoes, cassava, arrow roots and pawpaws. As agricultural productivity declined, so did household incomes and food security. A cassava processing factory that had once served as a major source of income for the community eventually closed down, further compounding economic hardship.
What did CESPAD do?
Water scarcity became a daily reality. Community members, particularly women and children, walked up to seven kilometres in search of water, sacrificing valuable time that could have been used for farming, education and other productive household activities. The situation was worsened by insecurity associated with illegal sand harvesting. In 2012, the community lost 15 young men in sand harvesting-related conflicts, leaving families devastated and communities living in fear. The lure of quick income also contributed to school dropouts, alcohol abuse and increased vulnerability among young people.
To address these challenges, the Water Resource Users Association (WRUA) Council was established and received capacity building support from the Centre for Social Planning and Administrative Development (CESPAD). Through sustained community sensitization and awareness creation, young people were educated on the environmental, social and economic consequences of unsustainable sand harvesting and encouraged to pursue alternative livelihoods.
What was produced?
Today, approximately 400 young people have transformed from illegal sand harvesters into custodians of the Kaluku River. Many have embraced alternative livelihood activities, including horticultural farming, while serving as ambassadors of change within their communities by raising awareness on the dangers of illegal sand harvesting and promoting sustainable environmental management.
What changed?
The restoration efforts have contributed to noticeable environmental improvements. Sand levels within the river have increased, helping to restore the river ecosystem and improve water availability for surrounding communities. The transformation of Kaluku River demonstrates how community empowerment, institutional support and sustainable livelihood alternatives can reverse environmental degradation while improving social and economic well-being.
What did we learn?
"Since the formation of the WRUA Council and capacity building by CESPAD, we have been able to sensitize the youths on the dangers of unsustainable sand harvesting. About 400 youths have transformed and are now jealously protecting the river. They are involved in alternative sources of livelihood such as horticultural farming and act as ambassadors of change. There is an increase in the level of sand in the river now, and the water is available within our reach." — Agnes Kisilu, Makueni Count