This archive report was first published on 19 October 2019.
On October 19, 2019, Environment Cabinet Secretary Keriako Tobiko emphasized the need for political leaders to take a leading role in conserving Kenya's forest cover during a visit to Taita Taveta County.
Tobiko expressed concern over the politicization of efforts to reclaim the country's forest cover, which he believes has hindered progress in the face of environmental degradation.
Speaking after launching the Kenya Forest Research Institute at Ngerenyi in Mwatate, Tobiko called on County commissioners across the 47 counties to implement the president's directive to plant at least 5 million trees by 2022.
He emphasized that the environment does not have a tribe, political party, or any political movement, and that conservation efforts should be above party politics.
Taita Taveta County has only 3% forest cover, with minimal efforts to plant more trees.
During his visit, over 24,000 trees were planted.
Taita Taveta deputy governor Majala Mlaghui called on the national government to increase the number of forest officers in the region.
