Machakos Deputy County Commissioner Gathungu Machira led a major tree planting exercise on Mazingira Day at Manza Primary in Mumbuni on Friday aimed at restoring the environment and combating desertification.
The DCC emphasised that planting trees was not simply about numbers but about ensuring the long-term survival of the trees.
The trees planted included both ordinary and fruit varieties, a move designed to create environmental benefits while also boosting food security and community livelihoods.
He added that the tree planting efforts would not only focus on the county headquarters but would also extend to Kasinga, Mumbuni, Kimokima, and Mung’ala, among other areas, to combat climate change and also provide economic and social benefits to communities.
During the exercise, several schools pledged their support for tree seedlings, with Kiima Kimwe Primary leading with 2000 seedlings set aside for planting, which would guarantee sustainability and a serene environment for the students.
Gathungu said the theme of the day was ‘Citizen-Centric Tree Growing and Environmental Stewardship’.
He urged the residents to put their best foot forward and unite through environmental conservation, mitigate climate change and counter pollution and deforestation in Machakos.
“This is not just about meeting targets. It is about securing our future. We have no excuse – this is a responsibility we must all share to protect our environment and restore our forests,” said Gathungu.
The tree planting exercise is expected to contribute significantly to Kenya’s larger environmental goals of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 and increasing national forest cover.
With schools, communities, and local nurseries actively involved, Machakos County is expected to emerge as a model in the fight against desertification and climate change.
The campaign is also seen as a unifying community effort, blending environmental conservation with education.
Students, teachers, and local residents all take part in planting and nurturing the trees, ensuring that the next generation carries the responsibility of protecting nature.
The tree planting exercise included the NGAO teams, heads of Departments and County officials, school heads, local residents and pupils who got together to ensure they made an impact in the environment that would be felt in years to come.
By Mary Wavinya and Anne Kangero
