Forestry officer Gitonga Mugambi and Charlene Ruto, the founder of Smachs Foundation, presented certificates to students who took part in environmental conservation efforts / ALICE WAITHERA

As stated by Environment CS Aden Duale, approximately 0.7 billion trees have been planted across the country as part of the initiative to reach a total of 15 billion trees by 2032.

This announcement was made on Friday during the observance of the International Day of Forests at Chepalungu Forest in Bomet County.

In a statement delivered on his behalf by Forest Permanent Secretary Gitonga Mugambi, Duale described it as significant advancement in environmental preservation and the battle against climate change.

“The CS mentioned that we are presently enclosing public forests to prevent unauthorized entry.”

Additionally, the government has launched the Green Zones Development Program aimed at boosting community resilience.

The initiative is also promoting the 15 Billion Tree Planting Program to boost forest coverage, tackle climate change, and enhance food security.

The CS stated that forests serve as crucial sources of sustenance, pharmaceuticals, water, and income for millions throughout the nation. Therefore, there is an urgent need for collaborative initiatives aimed at both restoring and safeguarding these ecosystems.

He voiced worry over critical ecosystems being under serious threat from issues like deforestation, land deterioration, and global warming.

These compromises affect both food production and community welfare, and the government is proactively enforcing several measures to protect these areas.

The conservation society urged farmers, local residents, governmental organizations, and businesses to take an active role in planting trees and implementing sustainable land practices.

“We require collaborative efforts across different sectors, specifically in agriculture, forestry, and environmental preservation, to advocate for nature-inspired solutions that boost food production while also combating climate change,” stated Duale.

As the prolonged rainy season begins, Duale encouraged all Kenyans and development allies to adopt tree planting and conservation initiatives to ensure a more verdant and food-stable tomorrow for future generations.

The governor of Bomet County, Hillary Barchok, stated that funds have been set aside in their financial plan to aid initiatives focused on restoring forests, demonstrating their dedication to protecting the environment.

He advocated for a joint effort encompassing educational institutions, nearby neighborhoods, and international businesses in the restoration of Chepalungu forest.

“During the post-election violence of 2007-2008, Chepalungu Forest experienced significant damage; however, steps have been taken to rehabilitate the area. This includes erecting fences around deteriorated sections to stop additional intrusion,” he stated.

He stated that these endeavors won’t succeed without engaging the local populace. To make sure residents gain from preservation activities, socioeconomic programs like apiculture and the establishment of Community Forest Associations (CFAs) have been initiated.

The local administration is in talks with the Kenya Wildlife Service to bring in eco-friendly wildlife species into the forest area.

This program seeks to boost biodiversity and develop ecotourism ventures that can provide financial benefits to people residing close to these ecosystems,” he stated. “We aim to ensure sustainability in preservation efforts by incorporating economic practices that benefit both local economies and ecological safeguarding.

Charlene Ruto, the founder of Smarchs Foundation, emphasized capacity building in educational institutions as an essential approach for ensuring long-term preservation of forests.

She mentioned that they have begun involving students to foster the appropriate attitude towards environmental preservation by motivating them to grow and nurture trees.

The organization has set up tree nurseries close to woodlands to supply saplings and encourage forest growth.