This archive report was first published on 5 August 2020.
On August 5, 2020, the Kenyan government reaffirmed its commitment to planting 2 billion trees by 2022, a goal that remains on track despite initial challenges.
Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, emphasized the importance of this initiative in enhancing the country's forest cover and reclaiming 5.1 million hectares of degraded landscape.
During a webinar hosted by the Konza Technopolis Development Authority, Dr. Kiptoo explained that the government had initially aimed to plant 500 million trees in 2020, 700 million in 2021, and 800 million in 2022. However, the availability of seedlings has been a significant challenge.
As part of the government's post-COVID-19 plans, Dr. Kiptoo announced that tree nurseries will be mapped, registered, and certified. This includes a tree nursery in Konza Technopolis, which will play a crucial role in supporting the country's tree planting efforts.
Dr. Kiptoo also highlighted the importance of private sector engagement in supporting nurseries and creating post-COVID jobs. He emphasized that the government aims to rally 35 million Kenyans to plant trees, with a goal of planting 60 seedlings per day, equivalent to 2 billion trees.
Information Communication and Technology (ICT), Innovation and Youth Affairs Principal Secretary, Jerome Ochieng, noted that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on urban planning and environmental sectors. He emphasized the need for sustainable urban planning, citing Konza Technopolis as a model for smart cities.
