Kitui – In a robust move to boost forest cover, Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua and Environment and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya led a large-scale tree-planting exercise in Mumoni Hills Forest, located in the Mwingi North Constituency of Kitui County. The event marked a critical step in the government’s goal to achieve 30 percent forest cover by 2032.

According to Kenya News Agency, this initiative is a part of a broader national effort under President Dr. William Ruto’s leadership, aiming to plant 15 billion trees over the next decade to combat the adverse effects of climate change. Each cabinet secretary has been tasked with overseeing monthly planting activities in designated forests and wetlands, with Dr. Mutua’s ministry focusing on reforestation efforts in Taita Taveta and Kitui counties, targeting four million trees within the next year.

During the event at Mumoni Hills, 13,000 trees were planted, contributing to the biodiversity of the area and advancing towards the ambitious national target. Dr. Mutua, who personally planted 110 trees, emphasized the importance of community involvement in these efforts and urged residents to support leaders who prioritize sustainable development.

CS Tuya highlighted that of the 15 billion trees planned, 30 percent would be fruit trees and 20 percent fodder, thus providing both environmental and economic benefits. The initiative was supported by various officials, including the Principal Secretary for the State Department of Tourism, John Ololtuaa, and Gitonga Mugambi from the State Department of Forestry.

County Commissioner Jepchumba Rutto called on residents to actively participate in and protect the ongoing tree-planting efforts. He stressed the importance of not allowing livestock to graze on newly planted sites to prevent damage to the saplings. Plans were also announced to employ some local residents in watering and guarding the young trees over the next three months to ensure their survival.

Additionally, County Deputy Governor Augustine Kanani pointed out the ecological significance of Mumoni Hills, home to the unique Hinde’s Babbler bird species found only in Kenya. He proposed collaborating with the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife to develop the area into a tourism attraction, leveraging its unique biodiversity.