Uasin Gishu, Kenya – The National Tree Growing Campaign in Uasin Gishu County is set to commence on Monday, November 13, as part of the National Tree Growing Holiday. This initiative, under the guidance of Uasin Gishu County Commissioner Dr. Eddyson Nyale and Co-chair Dr. Sam Kotutt, aims to plant 200 million tree seedlings across Kenya, with a specific target of 4.3 million in Uasin Gishu.

According to Kenya News Agency, a recent stakeholder forum was held at the County Hall in Eldoret town. Here, plans were formulated for sourcing seedlings, identifying main planting sites, and organizing necessary logistics. Dr. Nyale emphasized the importance of meeting the presidential directive of planting 200 million seedlings nationwide and ensuring Uasin Gishu achieves its 4.3 million target.

Various stakeholders, including government agencies like Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), and others, have contributed approximately one million seedlings, with additional pledges forthcoming. Dr. Nyale highlighted the role of public education in sensitizing the community about the significance of tree planting and conservation as a measure against climate change.

The campaign’s immediate goal is to plant one million tree seedlings across various sites in the county on November 13, with the remaining 3.3 million to be planted within the following two months. Dr. Kotutt, the County Executive for Natural Resources and Climate Change, stressed the urgency of mobilizing stakeholders to plant and protect trees to mitigate the effects of global warming.

Dr. Kotutt also explained the critical role trees play in reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide through photosynthesis. He pointed out the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing countries like Kenya, compared to the major carbon dioxide-producing developed nations.

The main event on November 13 will take place in Timboroa forest and Kaimur Wetland, where approximately 20,000 indigenous tree species will be planted. Mary Kerich, the County Chief Officer for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, emphasized the importance of community involvement to achieve the ambitious planting targets.

Additionally, Assistant County Forest Conservator Isaack Omoding encouraged public participation in the Jaza Miti Application, which allows users to record the planting of trees, assisting the Kenya Forest Service in maintaining accurate data on tree planting efforts across the country.