Kilifi: The Kenya Maritime Authority (KMA) has embarked on an ambitious project to plant mangrove trees across 25 acres of land along the coastline in Kilifi County. This initiative aims to restore forest cover and bolster environmental conservation efforts in the region.
According to Kenya News Agency, who spoke during a tree planting event at Kidundu-Mtongani Creek in Kilifi, the authority has already covered 5 acres and has formulated plans to ensure the completion of the 25-acre project. Omingo mentioned that the KMA intends to make regular visits to the site every three months to supervise the planting exercises.
During the event, it was disclosed that the KMA, in partnership with community members, had initiated the planting of 25,000 mangrove seedlings. Omingo highlighted the crucial role of mangroves in environmental preservation, particularly their capacity to absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide and purify the air.
The initiative is part of KMA’s commitment to promote sustainable practices within the maritime sector and aligns with the government’s broader environmental preservation goals. Omingo affirmed that the authority would continue to collaborate with the government and local communities in planting and maintaining the mangroves.
Kilifi North Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Samuel Mutisya underscored the importance of tree planting in combating climate change effects, such as prolonged drought. He called for a united effort among all state and non-state agencies and the public to achieve Kenya’s national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
Mutisya also urged Kilifi residents to capitalize on the rainy season to plant and nurture as many seedlings as possible. He emphasized the importance of not only planting trees but also ensuring their growth to maturity and protecting them from destruction. The DCC encouraged the public to incorporate tree planting into their daily activities, highlighting its significance for environmental sustainability.