NAROK: In a bid to boost forest conservation, Narok County has set a goal to plant approximately 110,000 tree seedlings during the tree planting holiday on November 13, 2023. The decision was finalized in a meeting of the County Technical Committee Members focused on the National Tree Planting drive. The event will see 50,000 trees planted in Enosupukia Forest, Narok East, with an additional 60,000 seedlings distributed across seven sub-counties.

According to Kenya News Agency, Chaired by Narok County Commissioner Isaac Masinde, the committee outlined contributions from several partners, including Kenya Forest Service, Ewaso Nyiro South Development Authority (ENSDA), Equity Bank, the National Disaster and Management Authority (NDMA), and the Narok County Government. Enosupukia Forest, a key water catchment area, plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, influencing underground water recharge and supporting Olkaria Geothermal steam power.

Masinde highlighted the urgency of conserving this catchment area, vital for the Magadi saltwater lake. The tree planting drive aligns with the county’s broader environmental goals, aiming to plant over 4.3 million trees during the El Nino season. Masinde urged residents to actively participate in the initiative by planting over 100 seedlings in their homesteads.

The event, which will be presided over by Cabinet Secretary for Investment and Trade Rebecca Miano and Narok Governor Patrick Ntutu, is part of President William Ruto’s administration’s broader goal to plant over 15 billion trees in a ten-year period, marking a significant step towards environmental conservation and sustainable development in Narok County.