Uasin Gishu County Government, in partnership with the Eldoret City Marathon and key stakeholders, has launched an ambitious tree planting campaign aimed at enhancing climate action and supporting the national target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
The exercise, which began at Hill School Primary in Eldoret, brought together a broad coalition of partners including race sponsors such as the Standard Media Group, Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Kenya Forest Service (KFS), National Government Administrative Officers (NGAOs), and members of the local community. The initiative seeks to increase forest cover, mitigate the effects of climate change, and promote environmental conservation across the county.
Speaking during the launch, Uasin Gishu Deputy Governor Evans Kapkea said the programme aligns with the presidential directive on environmental conservation and food security, noting that the county government is committed to ensuring its success.
Kapkea emphasized that the timing of the campaign is ideal due to the ongoing rainy season, which provides favorable conditions for tree growth. He urged farmers and residents to take advantage of the rains to plant both indigenous and fruit trees, noting that such efforts would not only improve environmental sustainability but also enhance household incomes.
“We are supporting the President’s call to plant trees as a way of combating climate change while at the same time boosting food security through fruit trees. The rains we are currently experiencing offer the perfect opportunity for farmers and institutions to plant and nurture seedlings,” he said.
The Deputy Governor further encouraged farmers to diversify into high-value crops such as coffee, avocado, and macadamia, assuring them of the county’s continued support through the provision of quality seedlings and extension services.
He revealed that more than 3,000 trees would be planted at Hill School alone, with plans underway to scale up the exercise to cover the entire county. Kapkea noted that the collaborative approach involving schools, government agencies, and the community would ensure the sustainability of the initiative.
“We are here with KFS, NGAOs led by the County Commissioner’s office, the school administration, students, and parents to plant more than 3,000 trees. This is just the beginning as we roll out similar activities across Uasin Gishu County,” he added.
The tree planting initiative is also closely linked to the upcoming Eldoret City Marathon, scheduled for April 26, 2026, which will be held under the theme “Climate Action.” Kapkea affirmed that the county government, in collaboration with partners, has finalized preparations to host the international event.
He called on athletes, both professional and amateur, as well as members of the public, to register and participate in the marathon, highlighting its dual role in promoting environmental conservation and supporting local economic growth.
“We invite all athletes and non-athletes to register and take part in this race, which not only promotes health and fitness but also supports tree planting and environmental conservation efforts,” he said.
Kapkea also underscored the importance of tree planting in urban beautification, noting that greening institutions such as schools contributes to the overall aesthetics and livability of Eldoret City, popularly known as the “City of Champions.”
He added that the Eldoret City Marathon continues to have a positive economic impact by attracting international athletes and visitors, thereby boosting sectors such as hospitality, trade, and transport.
Uasin Gishu County Assembly Speaker Philip Muigei assured that the assembly would support the initiative by enacting legislation and allocating sufficient budgetary resources to sustain both environmental programmes and sporting events.
Muigei noted that proper funding of flagship events like the Eldoret City Marathon would not only nurture local talent but also position the county as a hub for sports tourism.
“We are committed to ensuring that there is adequate budgetary allocation for such initiatives. This will guarantee long-term sustainability and continued growth of sports and environmental programmes in the county,” he said.
Eldoret City Marathon Director Moses Tanui revealed that the marathon has expanded its international footprint through Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with countries such as China and Ethiopia. He said the partnerships have facilitated athlete exchange programmes aimed at strengthening regional collaboration.
Under the exchange programme, two athletes from Ethiopia will participate in the Eldoret race, while two winners from the Eldoret marathon will compete in the Great Ethiopian Run.
Tanui said the 7th edition of the marathon will feature a diverse range of races, including one-mile competitions, middle-distance races, and elite categories. He added that new additions such as a children’s race, a 1.6-kilometre speed race, and a 10-kilometre fan race for sponsors and stakeholders are being introduced to broaden participation.
He urged athletes to register before the April 23 deadline, emphasizing the importance of clean competition and adherence to anti-doping regulations.
“We are working closely with anti-doping agencies to ensure a fair and clean race. We encourage all participants to register early and be part of this prestigious event. If you want to witness a competition comparable to major global marathons like Boston and London, then Eldoret is the place to be on April 26,” Tanui said.
Hill School Principal Naftali Mibei expressed the institution’s commitment to environmental conservation, noting that the school has set aside approximately five acres of land for tree planting.
Mibei said the initiative would not only contribute to climate change mitigation but also provide an opportunity for students to learn about environmental stewardship.
“We have adequate land and we are fully committed to this exercise. Our goal is to instill a culture of tree planting among learners while contributing to the broader effort of conserving the environment,” he said.
By Ekuwam Sylvester
