KDF launch tree-planting initiative to boost environmental clubs in schools
The military and some civilian agencies have launched an exercise in Nyandarua County to plant over 500,000 tree seedlings.
In the first phase of the initiative, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), the Kenya Forest Service, the Dedan Kimathi Foundation, and the Greens of Africa Foundation will plant trees in 73 schools in Kinangop Constituency.
In Karima Girls High School, the group planted 5,000 tree seedlings.
According to Major Humphrey Sanders, this is an annual exercise of the Environmental Soldier Programme in which the KDF collaborates with key environmental stakeholders to educate Kenyans about the importance of tree planting.
“This year, we are focusing on Nyandarua, which has in the recent past lost its forest cover due to human encroachment, especially on the Aberdare Ranges,” he said, adding:
“We have seen rivers dry as a result of the tree cutting. We want to make sure this stops,” he said.
Jedida Wanyeki, CEO of the Greens for Africa Foundation, echoed his sentiments to re-green Nyandarua County.
The initiative, according to Karima Girls principal Grace Wanjiru, will strengthen the school’s environmental club.
Kinangop North Deputy County Commissioner Noah Kibet stated that over 100,000 tree seedlings would be planted in the sub-public county’s schools alone.
He stated that involving schoolchildren in the exercise was necessary to instill in them the culture of tree planting.
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Evelyn Wanjugu, chief executive of the Dedan Kimathi Foundation, stated that the foundation is supporting and collaborating with the government to encourage Kenyans to plant trees, particularly during this rainy season, in order to achieve the required forest cover.
KDF launch tree-planting initiative to boost environmental clubs in schools
