Uasin Gishu County will plant 16 million tree seedlings as a starter even as it gears up to help in curbing effects of desertification.
The County has set its target of 20 million trees, with the 16 million already in the seedbeds to be planted.
The County joined the rest of the world in marking International Day of Forests whose theme was "Forests and Sustainable Cities."
A desertification alert was given to Kenya recently, that its paltry 7 percent forest cover is costing the continent and that it needs to achieve the recommended 10 percent cover.
Speaking during the celebrations held at Ng'elel Tarit Biwott Secondary School in Kaptagat ward, Environment, Water, Natural Resources, Tourism and Wildlife CeC Mary Njogu said the county aims to meets the 10 % threshold forest cover in the next three years.
Njogu who has been championing for environmental conservation in the County, urged residents to take action and ensure that they plant trees, taking advantage of the ongoing long rains.Njogu was flanked by her Finance Counterpart CPA Julius Rutto and Joseph Kurgat of Education.
They planted more than 1000 trees which were jointly donated by the Kenya Forestry Service and the County government.
The event was celebrated in conjunction with Kenya Forestry Service and stakeholders such as Kenya Water Towers, National Environmental Management Authority, University of Eldoret and the locals.