Kenya Marks First Mazingira Day with Nationwide Tree-Planting Campaign

By Purity Nyaguthii Muriithi

Kenya on Saturday marked Mazingira Day with President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto leading a national tree-planting exercise at State House, Nairobi.

The newly designated public holiday underscores the President’s ambitious goal of achieving 30 percent forest cover by 2032 — a significant increase from the current 8.8 percent.

The initiative aligns with global climate action efforts under the Paris Agreement, which seeks to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Leaders, volunteers, and environmental champions from across the country participated in the nationwide exercise, donating and planting various tree species.

President Ruto urged every Kenyan to contribute to the national tree-planting drive as part of the government’s target to grow 15 billion trees by 2032.

“To make this vision a reality, the government will provide seedlings across the country. The Kenya Forest Service, working with the National Youth Service, will mobilize 15,000 NYS personnel to revive 300 nurseries in our forests and establish 17 mega nurseries to produce two billion seedlings every year,” said President Ruto.

The President, who joined pupils from State House Primary School in planting fruit trees, emphasized that the initiative will not only enhance forest cover but also strengthen food security, create jobs, and boost agro-processing and export opportunities.

“These seedlings will include fruit trees to feed our people, generate wealth, and protect our water catchments while mitigating the effects of climate change,” he added.

Several national leaders, including National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, and county governors, participated in the exercise.

They urged Kenyans to take part in environmental conservation efforts, noting that tree planting is key to cleaner air, sustainable food production, and a healthier planet for future generations.