The focus of Kenya’s environmental conservation efforts is shifting from simply planting trees to ensuring they grow and thrive, following a presidential directive aimed at long-term forest restoration and climate resilience.
In response to this call, the Agricultural Food Authority (AFA), under the Ministry of Agriculture, has set an ambitious target of growing 1.2 million trees by the end of the current financial year.
In Meru County alone, 10,000 trees have already been planted at Meru university of science and technology, Kaaga girls’ high school and Kaaga boys’ high school in Meru County as part of this national effort.
The AFA is emphasizing the importance of moving beyond symbolic tree planting exercises, advocating for sustained care that allows trees to reach maturity.
This approach recognizes tree growing as not only a national responsibility but also a personal and community commitment.
Besides enhancing biodiversity and contributing to climate mitigation, growing tree particularly fruit trees can also improve nutrition and food security.
Supporting this initiative, Meru University of Science and Technology has become a key partner in the region.
The institution has dedicated eight acres of its land to tree growing and plans to continue expanding its green spaces.
This aligns with the national goal of growing 15 billion trees across the country by the year 2032.
The ongoing efforts in Meru highlight the collaborative spirit needed to tackle environmental challenges.
By involving government agencies, educational institutions, and local communities, the country is taking meaningful steps toward restoring its ecosystems and building a greener, more sustainable future.