NATIONAL TREE-GROWING INITIATIVE

Today, the National Irrigation Authority (NIA), in collaboration with the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and local communities, successfully conducted three tree-growing events where thousands of indigenous trees were planted at Corner Baridi Forest in Ngong Hills, Kipkurere Forest in Nandi County and Shamaneck Forest in Laikipia County.

At Corner Baridi Forest, in Ngong Hills, the event was led by Eng. Loise Kahiga (Director, Irrigation Development Services), Eng. Jairus Serede (Director, Irrigation Management Services) and Philip Kosgei (Forest Manager, Ngong Hills). They were joined by NIA staff from the head office and Lower Eastern Region.

In Shamaneck Forest, Laikipia County, the team was led by DCC Catherine Kanyanya, representatives from the Kenya Forest Service and the Community Forest Association alongside NIA staff from Head Office, Mwea Irrigation Scheme, MIAD Center, Mt. Kenya West Region and Mt. Kenya East Region.

The Kipkurere Forest event was spearheaded by Eng. Aggrey Koech (NIA Central and Lower Rift Valley Regional Coordinator) and Tinderet ACC Paul Keriako. Staff from the Central and Lower Rift Valley Region, Perkerra, Ahero, and West Kano Irrigation Schemes, as well as the Ahero Irrigation Research Station joined them for the exercise.

The Authority is dedicated to fulfilling its commitment to the national tree-growing initiative that aims to sustainably conserve the environment for both current and future generations, contributing to the Government’s target of achieving a minimum of 30 percent national forest cover by 2032.

Today’s tree-planting efforts is a powerful testament to the spirit of World Environment Day that emphasizes the urgent need for environmental protection and sustainable living.