MAKINDU: Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya has urged stakeholders to actively participate in tree-planting endeavors, aiming to restore the country’s degraded ecosystem. Tuya’s call came during the launch of a tree-planting drive at Kiu wetlands in MaKindu Sub County, Makueni County.

According to Kenya News Agency, The government’s initiative, as Tuya explained, targets the planting and nurturing of 15 billion trees by 2032 to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. “The responsibility of forest conservation transcends the Kenya Forest Service (KFS). County governments, community forest services, and citizens must unite for environmental preservation,” she emphasized.

During the event, Tuya revealed that 150,000 trees would be planted at Kiu, supported by various stakeholders. This project, she noted, would not only rejuvenate the environment but also provide employment opportunities for the youth and women involved in nurturing the planted saplings.

The CS highlighted the government’s focus on diversifying the types of trees planted, with 30% of the target being fruit trees. This strategy is aimed at addressing food and nutritional needs, as well as encouraging pastoralists to plant fodder trees for their livestock.

Tuya also mentioned the establishment of a dedicated unit with a toll-free number (0800 724 570) for reporting environmental misuse. She encouraged local residents to actively engage in tree planting, underscoring its benefits in reducing flood risks, mitigating climate change impacts, and bolstering food security.

Makueni County Governor Mutula Kilonzo Jnr. underscored the importance of collaboration with KFS for effective forest cover conservation. He advocated for community involvement in selling, planting, and caring for tree seedlings as a means to generate income.