Tharaka-Nithi County Commissioner David Gitonga led the launch of Environment Week by planting more than 1,000 tree seedlings at Kathwana Prison, marking the start of preparations for the national tree-planting exercise scheduled for October 10. Gitonga emphasized the county’s commitment to increasing forest cover and environmental conservation, stating that residents would receive seedlings to plant at home. He highlighted the need for community, government, and stakeholder collaboration, noting that the county’s target of 200,060 seedlings in Chuka requires collective effort. The exercise will continue through October 10, when President William Ruto is set to lead a national campaign aiming to plant six million trees in one hour across 33 counties.
Gitonga identified challenges including insufficient manpower for digging planting holes and logistical difficulties in transporting seedlings. He called for increased support to meet the target, urging residents to protect and nurture the seedlings for long-term survival. County Forest Conservator Muigai Reuben added that the Kenya Forest Service has sensitized communities on Environment Week activities, which include planting at sites like Chuka Forest Station, Kiera Hills, and Kijege. Aerial planting will also occur on three hills during the national event. Reuben stressed the importance of ensuring seedling survival, noting that water measures will be implemented in areas with inadequate rainfall. He warned that delayed rains could disrupt some sites, reinforcing the need for sustained care beyond planting.
Tharaka-Nithi County Prisons Commander Stephen Njoroge praised the initiative at Kathwana Prison, where staff and inmates contributed labor. He highlighted the significance of inter-institutional partnerships in advancing environmental conservation, expressing optimism about continued collaboration with government and private-sector stakeholders. The county government reiterated that Environment Week activities will run through October 10, with all sectors encouraged to participate in tree planting and conservation efforts. The campaign underscores broader goals of sustainable development and ecological resilience, as officials balance ambitious targets with practical challenges.
The initiative reflects a broader push for environmental stewardship, with officials stressing that success hinges on both quantity and quality of tree survival. As the county moves toward the national exercise, stakeholders face the dual task of mobilizing resources and ensuring long-term ecological impact. The event also highlights the role of prisons and other institutions in community-based conservation, showcasing how diverse partnerships can amplify environmental efforts.