Absa Bank Kenya has committed to planting 10,000 fruit trees in schools nationwide as part of its sustainability efforts, with additional trees funded by golf tournament performances.
The initiative, called Birdies for Good, ties tree planting to the Kenya Magical Open golf tournament. For every birdie scored during the event at Muthaiga Golf Club from March 3-6, 2022, the bank will plant an additional tree through a KES1,200 donation per birdie. The program aims to raise KES6 million for school tree projects.
Jane Waiyaki, Absa's Head of Sustainability, emphasized the dual environmental and nutritional benefits. "Fruit trees in schools can supplement feeding programs at lower costs while improving Kenya's tree cover," she stated. The bank previously pledged to plant 10 million trees over five years.
The 2021 iteration of Birdies for Good raised KES8 million for projects including tree planting and sanitary pad distribution. Waiyaki noted the initiative aligns with the bank's broader environmental responsibility, supporting community conservation efforts.
Francis Kariuki of Kenya Forest Services praised the partnership, calling it vital for securing future generations' livelihoods. "Planting trees ensures a sustainable future for children and their descendants," he said.
