Turkana: The Model Village, a transformative mission aimed at achieving Kenya's 15 billion tree-growing strategic initiative through agroforestry woodlots in schools, has been expanded to Turkana County. Initially launched in Meru County last month, the initiative is part of the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) focusing on environmental sustainability and generational change.
According to Kenya News Agency, during the mission's launch at Nakwamekwi Comprehensive School in Turkana Central Sub-County, Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry Dr. Deborah Barasa, represented by Forestry Director of Economic Planning Lawrence Muthamia, emphasized the Model Village as the ideal strategy for enhancing Kenya's tree cover. Dr. Barasa highlighted that the mission integrates climate action, education, and local livelihoods under a single transformative green agenda.
The framework, as explained by Dr. Barasa, includes agroforestry tree planting in educational institutions, community-run tree nurseries, education for climate-smart land use, and data-driven monitoring of planting efforts. Technical support from the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), the Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI), and other partners has facilitated the initiative's implementation in over 30 institutions across Turkana County.
Dr. Barasa extended her gratitude to the Turkana County Government for its coordination with national agencies, community participation, and alignment with national restoration goals and Vision 2030. She urged the community to plant trees with purpose and inspire future generations to become custodians of the environment.
Mr. Muthamia also expressed hope that the trees planted would symbolize peace, hope, and prosperity, urging Turkana County to lead in creating a future where nature and people coexist harmoniously. He noted that the initiative is part of Kenya's national goal to restore 10.25 million hectares by 2032, with a significant portion achieved through agroforestry and commercial woodlots.
In conclusion, Mr. Muthamia called for collective efforts to restore the dignity of the land and secure a sustainable future for coming generations.