Learning institutions in Nandi County have been urged to take a leading role in supporting the government’s afforestation programme by planting more trees within their premises.
Nandi East Sub-County Commissioner Ngalia Ndaya said schools are critical players in achieving the national reforestation goals.
“All the primary schools in our Sub-County have participated in the tree-planting exercise. We are encouraging the planting of fruit trees to enhance the nutritional supplements for the young ones,” said Ndaya.
Speaking during a tree-planting event at Kosoiywo Primary School, he revealed that over 200 trees have been planted in each of the 98 primary schools across Nandi East, totalling more than 21,000 trees so far.
He emphasized the value of fruit trees, noting their dual benefits—restoring the environment while offering dietary supplements to school meals and improving the overall health of the community.
“Fruit trees not only improve the ecosystem but also provide nutritious food, especially for our children,” he added. “We’re asking schools and even households to consider planting these trees to fight both hunger and climate change.”
However, Ndaya acknowledged that limited space in some schools poses a challenge to tree-planting efforts, urging the wider community to step in.
“One challenge we face is that most primary schools lack enough space for growing trees,” he noted. “We are calling on residents to take up this responsibility and plant trees — especially fruit trees — at their homes.”
He also called on heads of institutions and residents to ensure proper care and protection of the planted trees to ensure they grow to maturity.
Joining the commissioner at the event, Nandi East Forest Conservator Rebi Kerich echoed the call for increased tree planting, aligning the campaign with President William Ruto’s national goal of planting 15 billion trees.
“We are working in line with the president’s directive of planting 15 billion trees. We are encouraging the community to embrace tree planting at home, especially fruit trees, to restore the ecosystem as well as achieve 30 per cent tree cover in each compound,” said Kerich.
He highlighted the multiple benefits of fruit trees, from air purification and climate change mitigation to providing food and nutritional support.
“Every compound should aim for 30 per cent tree cover. Trees are not just for shade — they are life-sustaining,” Kerich emphasized.
Both leaders stressed that achieving meaningful environmental restoration requires a collective effort — from schools, homes, and public institutions.
The tree-planting exercise at Kosoiywo Primary School drew participation from pupils, teachers, parents, and local officials, demonstrating how grassroots efforts can align with national climate goals.
With over 21,000 trees already planted in local schools, Nandi East is setting a strong example — and proving that with commitment and community participation, environmental restoration and better nutrition can go hand-in-hand.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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