At least 50,000 trees will be planted in Oloolua Forest in Kajiado County in a major conservation drive aimed at restoring degraded sections and boosting the country’s forest cover.
The initiative, which will bring together government agencies, environmental organisations and local residents, is part of ongoing efforts to mitigate the effects of climate change and protect critical ecosystems.
State Department for Irrigation Principal Secretary, Ephantus Kimotho, who is also Oloolua Forest patron, said the exercise will enhance biodiversity, improve air quality and safeguard water catchment areas within the forest.
“We have initiated a fundraising drive to fence the forest as part of protecting the restoration initiative. We will also restore degraded landscapes by planting 50,000 trees during this rainy season,” he said.
Mr. Kimotho further revealed that organisers are planning a run on April 25, 2026, to create awareness on the link between sports and environmental conservation.
The programme also places strong emphasis on community involvement, with 20,000 fruit tree seedlings set to be distributed to households and schools living around the forest.
“We are working with the State Department for Environment and Climate Change to establish Mazingira Clubs in 10 schools, where students will adopt and nurture trees. Area Members of the County Assembly have also agreed to support the schools,” he added.
In addition, plans are underway to promote eco-tourism within the forest once the fencing and restoration works are complete.
The initiative is also expected to create green jobs through the establishment of tree nurseries, ensuring that conservation efforts go hand in hand with community empowerment.
State Department for Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary, Eng. Festus Ng’eno lauded the initiative, noting that restoring Oloolua Forest is crucial given its proximity to Nairobi. He said alternative green spaces are needed as Karura Forest is already overstretched.
“We need Oloolua Forest and other adjacent forests for Nairobi residents in terms of healthy living,” he said.
He added that Kenya is making progress towards its target of planting 15 billion trees, revealing that 1.5 billion trees have already been planted.
The PS exuded confidence that the target will be achieved, noting that over 300 tree nurseries have been established through the Kenya Forest Service.
He further stated that several Principal Secretaries have taken up patronage roles in the restoration of forests in their respective regions.
The programme aligns with Kenya’s 15 billion tree growing initiative launched by President William Ruto, which aims to increase tree cover and promote environmental conservation across the country by 2032.
By Diana Meneto
