In a bid to combat the devastating effects of climate change, the Kenyan government has taken a bold step by declaring next Monday, November 13, 2023, as a public holiday dedicated to tree planting. This announcement was made following a Cabinet meeting held in Mombasa on November 3, 2023, as revealed by Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration, Kithure Kindiki.
During this special holiday, the government encourages the public across the country to participate in tree planting as a patriotic contribution to the nation’s efforts to safeguard the environment. It is a remarkable initiative that underscores the importance of collective action in addressing climate change.
Kindiki also clarified that national examinations scheduled for that day will proceed as planned, ensuring that education remains a top priority for the nation.
The government’s decision has stirred a range of reactions from the public. While some, like Livingstoe Kiprop, emphasize the need for thorough planning and the availability of seedlings in schools, others, like George Gacheru, express concerns over the perceived shift of responsibility from the government to the citizens.
George Kim questioned the wisdom of dedicating a whole working day to tree planting, considering the country’s financial challenges. These mixed reactions highlight the complexity of balancing environmental conservation with other pressing issues.
Earlier this year, President Ruto launched an ambitious initiative to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, aimed at mitigating greenhouse emissions, halting deforestation, and restoring deforested landscapes spanning 5.1 million hectares. Ruto stressed that these 15 billion trees would not be planted solely by the government but rather grown by the people of Kenya.
As part of the initiative, the Kenya Forestry and Research Institute has been tasked with establishing 18 seedling plantations across the country, ensuring that tree seedlings are readily available to support this monumental reforestation effort.
Kenya has faced significant challenges in preserving its natural forests. According to Global Forest Watch, in 2022, the country lost 6,290 hectares of natural forest, equivalent to 3.29 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions. Disturbingly, there were 553 deforestation alerts reported between October 21, 2023, and October 28, 2023, covering a total of seven hectares.
Over the past two decades, Kenya also lost 50,700 hectares of humid primary forest, constituting 14 percent of its total tree cover loss. Furthermore, there was a decrease of 11 percent in tree cover since 2000, resulting in 184 metric tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions.
President Ruto is keen on ensuring that this reforestation effort not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also addresses food security and income generation for Kenyans. As a part of this commitment, Ruto stated that 30% of the 15 billion trees to be planted will be fruit trees, offering the promise of a fruitful future for the nation.
Farmers Trend, an organization dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture in Kenya, is fully behind the government’s tree planting initiative. The director of Farmers Trend – John Kiruthi-, in support of the cause, declared, “As we prepare for this significant day, Farmers Trend is excited to play a role in this national effort. To encourage fruit farming and tree planting, we are pleased to announce that Farmers Trend will provide a 50% discount on all fruit seedlings purchased this week. We believe that fruit farming is not only essential for food security but also a profitable venture for Kenyan farmers.”
This generous offer from Farmers Trend adds to the enthusiasm for the tree planting holiday, as it not only promotes environmental conservation but also empowers farmers and contributes to the nation’s agricultural and economic growth. The combined efforts of the government, the public, and organizations like Farmers Trend emphasize the importance of collective action in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable agriculture in Kenya.