Absa Bank Kenya has launched a tree-planting initiative linking golf tournament scores to environmental projects, aiming to plant 10,000 fruit trees in schools across the country this year. The program, part of the Birdies for Good campaign, ties tree planting to birdies recorded at the 2022 Kenya Magical Open golf tournament.
For every birdie achieved during the March 3-6 event at Muthaiga Golf Club, the bank will plant an additional tree and contribute KES1,200 toward the initiative, targeting a KES6 million fundraising goal. This follows a 2021 campaign that generated KES8 million for community projects including environmental conservation and school programs.
Jane Waiyaki, Absa's Head of Sustainability, stated the initiative aligns with the bank's broader goal to plant 10 million trees in Kenya over five years. She emphasized, "As a bank, we are a deliberate force for good, challenging golfers to bring their best game to the tournament and impact communities through their scores." The program also seeks to enhance school nutrition by providing fruit sources for feeding programs.
Francis Kariuki of Kenya Forest Services highlighted the initiative's dual benefits, noting, "By planting trees, we secure a future for our children and their children." The 2021 Birdies for Good campaign supported projects like women's bead-making enterprises and sanitary pad distribution in several Kenyan counties.
