The Ministry of Environment and Forestry has kicked off a national tree planting exercise as part of a strategic campaign to increase forest cover to 10% by the year 2022.
The Ministry Headquarters staff, Kenya Forest Service (KFS), National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI), Kenya Meteorological Department and the Kenya Water Towers Agency are on Wednesday set to undertake a 10,000 trees planting exercise at the Ngong’ Forest reserve.
The exercise spearheaded by Cabinet Secretary, Keriako Tobiko.
Speaking ahead of the event, Tobiko said the ministry will provide technical support for local public and private sector institutions taking part in the national tree planting campaign.
“All Kenyans, young and old are encouraged to go out and plant as many trees as possible this year as we seek to reverse environmental degradation by doubling forest cover,” Tobiko said.
“As the national tree planting campaigns kicks off, we shall join hands with local corporates, schools, disciplined forces and individuals among others to ensure a sustained adoption of a tree planting and nurturing culture,” he added.
The national tree planting campaign comes hot on the heels of the recent commitment by the Council of Governors (CoG) to support the national government’s reforestation efforts.