National Tree Planting Day

In a unified effort to address the aftermath of devastating floods and propel Kenya towards a greener future, the State Department for Parliamentary Affairs, under the leadership of Principal Secretary Aurelia Rono, spearheaded a successful tree planting initiative in Kathara Sub-Location, Maara Sub-County.

The event, commemorating National Tree Planting Day, served as a poignant reminder of the recent havoc wreaked by floods across the nation, claiming lives and wreaking havoc on infrastructure and livelihoods. With the directive from the Presidency to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, efforts such as these are vital in achieving the ambitious goal of increasing the country's tree cover to 30 percent.

Addressing the gathered crowd, PS Aurelia Rono expressed great concern over the devastation caused by the floods, emphasizing the urgent need for environmental conservation. Drawing from personal nostalgia, she reflected on simpler times when the environment flourished, underscoring the responsibility each individual holds in preserving it for future generations.

The tree planting endeavor saw the collaborative efforts of local residents, community leaders, and government officials, including Deputy County Commissioner for Maara Sub-County, Machira Kathungu, and Kenya Forest Service County Commander, Chief Inspector Tito Okello. A total of 1,500 trees were planted, comprising 1,000 indigenous species and 500 exotic varieties, symbolizing a harmonious blend of conservation and biodiversity.