Kirinyaga County has launched a week-long environmental campaign targeting the planting of 250,000 tree seedlings, culminating in a presidential tree-planting challenge at Thiba Dam on Saturday. The initiative, officially launched in Kutus town, brought together stakeholders including the National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), Kirinyaga County Government, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Kenya Red Cross, and the business community. The campaign aims to enhance tree cover, promote environmental cleanliness, and educate residents on sustainable waste management practices.
Deputy Forest Conservator Margaret Mugure outlined the week’s activities, which include tree planting in schools and institutions on Tuesday, forest reserves on Wednesday, and roadsides on Thursday. Friday’s focus will be on clean-up exercises in towns and markets. Mugure emphasized community participation, urging residents to plant trees and dispose of waste responsibly. She also directed individuals to obtain seedlings from Kenya Forest Service nurseries or local chiefs’ offices during the campaign.
NEMA Kirinyaga County Director Beatrice Kananu highlighted the importance of widespread participation, encouraging residents unable to attend the Thiba Dam event to plant trees in their communities. The presidential challenge aims to plant 60,000 seedlings in one hour, with Kananu stressing the need for collective action to combat climate change. Environment official Jamleck Mureithi added that the program seeks to foster environmental awareness, urging participants to track planted trees via the Jaza Miti app.
Kenya Red Cross representative Kiptanui Dennis called on youth to actively engage in the Saturday event, emphasizing their role in addressing future environmental challenges. He praised the county government for empowering young people to contribute to national development through conservation efforts. The campaign underscores collaborative efforts between government agencies, civil society, and the public to achieve ecological sustainability and climate resilience.