Kisii:Broadcasting and Telecommunications Principal Secretary Stephen Isaboke spearheaded a tree-planting exercise at Chirichiro Comprehensive School in Kisii Central Sub-County, planting over 2,000 tree seedlings with the help of local administrators, school officials, students, government officers, and political leaders.
According to Kenya News Agency, Isaboke emphasized that the initiative is part of the government’s campaign to increase forest cover and combat climate change. The government aims to plant 15 billion trees nationwide by 2032 and urges Kenyans to make tree planting a regular activity.
Isaboke highlighted deforestation’s impact on Kisii, noting the loss of extensive forests and wildlife due to tree cutting. He stressed the importance of restoring forest cover to mitigate climate change and protect the environment for future generations, praising local support for the initiative.
Kisii County Forest Conservator William Ojijo explained that the event was part of the preparations for the Mazingira Day celebrations at Nyangweta Forest on October 10. He discussed the benefits of trees, such as protecting water sources and improving air quality, and mentioned exploring carbon credits for forest conservation funding.
Ojijo reported that Kisii has planted approximately 35 million trees and aims for 71 million over the next decade. He encouraged residents to take responsibility for the environment and involve young people in conservation efforts.
Kisii Central Deputy County Commissioner Gladys Nyongesa committed to working with local leaders to support the national tree-planting goal. She mentioned that chiefs in the sub-county plant trees monthly under the ‘Chief Climate Action Day’ project, having planted over 250,000 trees so far.
Additionally, the State Department for Mining planted 6,000 trees at Nyanchogochi Comprehensive School in Kitutu Central Sub County as part of their mine-site restoration efforts. This initiative aims to rehabilitate landscapes affected by mining and raise awareness about environmental restoration.
Mazingira Day, observed annually on October 10, promotes environmental protection and encourages tree planting. This year’s theme, ‘Our environment, our responsibility collective action for tree growing and environmental stewardship,’ calls for collective efforts to reach the national goal of 15 billion trees by 2032.
