Northern Kenya

Commissioner Ochako leads Mandera in tree planting exercise

Mandera County Commissioner Henry Ochako leading residents in Mandera Couty in nationwide tree planting exercise at Mandera Technical Training Institute. (Photo: Adan Mohamed)

By Adan Mohamed | Friday, May 10, 2024

Government agencies and ministries have been tasked with integrating tree planting into their operations.

Residents of Mandera County have joined the nationwide tree-planting campaign to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Under the banner of '15 Billion Trees, Wajibu Wetu' (Our Responsibility), the initiative commenced at Mandera Technical Training Institute (MTTI) with strong support from the local community.

Keep reading

Led by Mandera County Commissioner, Henry Ochako, the event rallied for collective action among residents to achieve the ambitious tree-planting goals set forth.

The current administration aims to plant at least 15 billion trees by 2032, an initiative led by President William Ruto. This initiative is a bid to achieve the recommended 10 per cent forest cover.

Following the planting of 1,000 trees at MTTI, Commissioner Ochako stressed the importance of nurturing these trees to counteract the effects of climate change.

"I implore every individual to take ownership of the trees planted as part of our efforts to mitigate climate change," said Commissioner Ochako.

He further urged residents to continue their tree-planting endeavours and obtain seedlings from various sources, including the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), Municipality, and MTTI nurseries, where they are provided at no cost.

"The availability of seedlings is abundant in designated areas. Let's ensure we plant sufficiently to meet the President's target," Commissioner Ochako said.

Government agencies and ministries have been tasked with integrating tree planting into their operations, reaffirming the collective commitment to environmental conservation.