By Peter Ochieng
Kenyans from all walks of life braced the cold weather in most parts of the country, to plant a tree or two during the National Tree Planting Day on 10th May, 2024.
The holiday was gazetted by Cabinet Secretary (CS) for internal affairs and national administration Kithure Kindiki so as to give every Kenyan an equal chance to plant and grow trees, with a view of reaching 15 billion trees by 2032.
Speaking in Nakuru county during his weekly press briefings, Isaac Mwaura, government Spokesman said over 14 million trees were planted on May 10.
“I am proud to report that we are on track to achieving 30% tree cover by 2032. Our recent National Tree Growing Day saw the planting of over 14 million trees nationwide, demonstrating our dedication to combating climate change,” said Mwaura.
He attributed the figures to data generated from the JazaMiti Application, which individuals and organizations use to document their tree planting initiatives.
JazaMiti initiative is a presidential directive where Safaricom in partnership with the Ministry of Environment have come together to drive the 15 billion tree planting initiative commissioned by the President.
The mobile App facilitates and enhances tree planting issues by aiding users in selecting suitable tree species for planting based on their location, documenting, tracking, and monitoring the growth of documented trees over time.
On President William Ruto’s ongoing state visit to the USA, Mwaura said it is set to bolster bilateral relations and unlock new opportunities in trade, education, health, and digital innovation.
“Notably, is the Sh22.8 billion investment plan with Coca-Cola, set to create 3000 jobs for Kenyans, and a $1 billion digital investment by Microsoft and G42, enhancing our digital infrastructure and skills training,” he said.
Concerning the Finance Bill, 2024 which continues to generate heated discussions, the government Spokesperson urged Kenyans to engage with the Bill and share their feedback to ensure it reflects collective interests.
Busia Senator Okoiti Okiyah Omtatah has already moved to court, seeking for orders to stop public participation on the Bill.