A scientist from the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), Bernard Yegon, has encouraged the adoption of poles made from bamboo trees.
The poles can be used for electricity distribution, street lighting or for erecting fences at home, in institutions or even in the markets.
Speaking to KNA during the KEFRI Open Day in Kakamega, Yegon said that Ecopoles are very strong, lightweight and durable.
To produce the poles, he said that bamboo trees are obtained and split into pieces, then the pieces are arranged in a Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) pipe.
“We then pour polymer solution so that it binds the splinted bamboo. We seal it with a top cover to prevent water from entering inside,” he added.
He said that the Ecopoles can survive for many years and their maintenance costs are very low.
He encouraged Kenyans to plant enough bamboo trees which they can use and also supply to the Ecopole Kenya Industries Limited for processing into electricity poles.
“By planting the bamboo trees, we will also be helping in increasing the forest cover in our country and help in restoring our ecosystems,” he added.
He noted that due to their lightweight, transportation of the Ecopoles is easier especially in hilly areas and rugged landscapes.
“The other areas where we have done trials are those areas which have the challenge of termites, this is a pole that will not be attacked by termites,” he explained.
He said some areas of the country have already adopted bamboo poles for street lighting.
By Philip Jonathan and Jedidah Mumia
