The Patron of the organization dubbed Plant Trees for a Better Environment, Nuhu Omollo Masud, has said they were targeting to ensure the realization of the government’s drive of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
Masud noted that Homa Bay is expected to plant 15 million trees over the period, with at least 1.49million trees planted every year.
He said the organization has already planted more than 800,000 trees across the county since 2023.
The patron said he had already initiated ‘back to school with a seedling’ programme, where learners plant trees in schools during opening days.
“Our organization is committed to continuously planting trees to improve environment. The agenda also help us to fight the negative impact of climate change,” he said.
Speaking during a tree planting drive in Homa Bay town, Masud said their collaboration efforts have enabled them to enhance trees cover in the county.
According to Homa Bay Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Conservator Sharon Cheluget, the county has improved on the tree cover from 2.7 to 10.14 per cent.
Masud urged residents to embrace a culture of growing trees to ensure they succeed in the fight against the negative impact of climate change.
The organization’s tree planting drive targets schools, colleges, government offices and ceremonies like funerals, weddings, amongst other events.
“Majority of people understand the significance of having trees around them. Let’s grow trees to fight drought,” he said.
Amongst public spaces where the organization has planted trees are UDA party office in Homa Bay town.
The party branch Chairman Franklin Oluoch said Masud provides them with tree seedlings for planting during their meetings.
Masud has been awarded a Head of State Commendation (HSC) for his passion for growing trees in the county.
“It is commendable that Masud was conferred with HSC. We recognize and underscore a shared commitment to environmental sustainability and public service,” Oluoch said.
Cheluget said Masud has helped them in their mission of sensitizing residents on the importance of growing trees.
The government is allowing him to access public institutions to plant and promote growing of trees.
Masud said they have more than six nursery beds, where they raise seedlings. Each nursery bed has at least 2000 various trees including fruit trees.
“Let members of the public adopt tree planting both as an economic activity and environmental conservation.” Cheluget said.
by Davis Langat
