TARDA Donates Thousands of Tree Seedlings to Enhance Iveti Forest

Iveti, Machakos County – In a major push to increase forest cover, the Tana and Athi Rivers Development Authority (TARDA) has donated 11,000 tree seedlings for planting in Iveti forest. This initiative aligns with the presidential directive to plant nearly 15 billion trees by 2032 as part of efforts to combat climate change.

According to Kenya News Agency, the authority is collaborating with the National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), the National Environmental Management Authority (NEMA), and the County Government for this cause. Roba emphasized that conserving water catchment areas is a key part of TARDA’s mandate, and the Iveti forest plays a vital role in the Athi river ecosystem.

During a tree planting exercise at Iveti forest, Roba urged Kenyans to support the president’s initiative on tree planting and forest conservation. He expressed confidence in achieving the goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

Roba revealed that TARDA is currently overseeing more than 10 afforestation programs in Machakos, with 1.5 million assorted tree seedlings already planted in various locations. The locations include partnerships with educational institutions like Kathiani Girls High School and significant areas such as Maruba Dam and Mitaboni.

Professor Reuben Muasya, a member of the Board of Directors at TARDA, highlighted the organization’s collaboration with local communities in Machakos to tackle deforestation. Muasya noted that TARDA’s efforts extend across 19 counties, focusing on planting indigenous trees suitable for different climatic conditions.

Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and NEMA were commended by Muasya for their enforcement of laws against illegal activities like logging and charcoal burning in forests. Chief Inspector Immanuel Lewa, representing the County Forest Conservator Milcah Mutua, warned locals against allowing livestock to graze in gazetted forests and highlighted the deployment of newly recruited KFS foresters to safeguard forests in the county.

Inspector Lewa also mentioned the ongoing six-month operation “Imarisha Misitu,” aimed at halting illegal activities in forests. This multi-agency effort represents a significant step toward preserving Kenya’s natural resources and combating the effects of climate change.