Makueni: The Aviation and Aerospace Development PS Teresia Mbaika has urged Makueni county residents to participate in the government's initiative to green the environment by planting trees in their homesteads. Mbaika emphasized the importance of these efforts in improving the environment, especially in light of the extreme weather conditions caused by climate change that have led to desertification.
According to Kenya News Agency, the PS highlighted that national environmental awareness initiatives aim to mobilize citizens to engage in conservation efforts, contributing directly to the government's goal of achieving 30 percent tree cover in the country by 2032. 'The government has initiated ambitious targets through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, aimed at championing environmental conservation and management of forests countrywide, fighting deforestation and promoting community involvement,' said the PS, in a speech read on her behalf by Mohammed Abbas, Secretary Administration at the State Department for Aviation and Aerospace Development, during celebrations to mark Mazingira Day at Muthini Primary School, Makueni Sub County.
Mbaika also praised the government under President Dr. William Ruto's leadership for advocating the planting of fruit trees, which she stated would significantly enhance food security in the country. She announced that 71 million fruit tree seedlings would be planted in 35,570 public and private primary schools nationwide, with each institution tasked with planting at least 2,000 trees. 'The choice of planting, especially fruit trees, resonates with the government efforts of enhancing food security and clean-up drives to inculcate environmental education into daily routine. We must rise up to be part of supporting Kenya's biodiversity and climate change resilience by promoting the culture of personal environmental responsibility,' she said.
Mbaika noted the benefits of fruit trees in supporting student nutrition by providing fresh produce and fostering a connection to nature. During the Mazingira Day event, over 500 tree seedlings were planted at Muthini Primary School, while another 500 were donated to Mukuyuni Secondary School to support their environmental conservation efforts.
Makueni County Commissioner Duncan Darusi emphasized the need for active involvement from the community and the church in tree planting to conserve the environment. On the educational front, Darusi urged parents to prioritize their children's education, stating it is the greatest inheritance they can provide. 'As a parent the most precious inheritance you can bequeath your children is education. Being a parent is not an accident but a responsibility,' he said.
Dr. Paul Musila, the county executive for Lands, Urban and Planning, Environment, affirmed the county's full involvement in conservation efforts, particularly through the departments of agriculture, water, and environment.