Kenya has declared a special holiday dedicated to planting 100 million trees, a crucial step in the government’s ambitious plan to plant 15 billion trees over the next decade. This innovative holiday, designed to involve every Kenyan citizen, aims to foster a collective effort against climate change, recognising the vital role trees play in absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen into the atmosphere.
Environment Minister Soipan Tuya emphasised that the holiday provides an opportunity for each Kenyan to take ownership of the initiative. The goal is for every individual to contribute by planting at least two seedlings, contributing to the overall target of 100 million trees. This tree-planting initiative aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability.
To facilitate this massive undertaking, the government is distributing approximately 150 million seedlings through public nurseries, making them available for free at forest agency centres. Additionally, Kenyans are encouraged to purchase at least two seedlings to plant on their private land, fostering a sense of individual responsibility for environmental conservation.
President William Ruto led the tree-planting exercise in Makueni, with cabinet ministers, county governors, and other officials participating in various regions across the country. The initiative received positive responses from citizens, acknowledging the importance of reversing climate change for future generations.
Despite the enthusiasm, challenges have been noted, particularly in urban areas where some may view the holiday as an opportunity for leisure rather than active participation in tree planting. To monitor and coordinate the initiative, an internet app named “Jaza Miti” has been introduced. This app allows individuals and organisations to record their planting activities, including details such as plant species, quantity, and planting date.
While the initiative has received widespread support, environmentalist Teresa Muthoni raised concerns about organisation and financial struggles for those who need to prioritise work. She also highlighted the importance of planting the right trees in the right places, expressing caution about the prevalence of exotic species among the 150 million trees available in public nurseries.
Responding to criticism about illegal logging, Minister Tuya clarified that the recent lifting of the logging ban only affected forests designated for commercial purposes, constituting about 5% of the total. She emphasised the necessity to meet local demand and create jobs, assuring that the government is taking action against illegal loggers in other forests.
The minister anticipates that the tree-planting initiative will extend beyond the special holiday, with a target of 500 million trees planted by the end of the rainy season in December. This ambitious endeavour reflects Kenya’s commitment to environmental stewardship and resilience against climate change.