By Monica Nashon
More than 2,000 tree seedlings have been planted at Chirichiro Primary and Junior School in Nyaribari Chache, Kisii County, in a grassroots push to boost environmental conservation and support Kenya’s national tree-growing campaign.
The exercise, held on Friday, October 9, was led by Principal Secretary for Broadcasting and Telecommunications Stephen Isaboke and brought together pupils, teachers, parents, government officials and local leaders.
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“Planting a tree is an act of patriotism. When you plant a tree in your school, you are securing the future of Kenya and showing love for your country,” Isaboke said.
He urged schools to take a leading role in the national tree-growing campaign, noting that trees help mitigate climate change, protect water sources, prevent soil erosion and support food production.
Isaboke challenged pupils to adopt and nurture at least two fruit trees each, saying schools could make a significant contribution to the government’s target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
Kisii Central Deputy County Commissioner Gladys Nyongesa, Ibeno Ward Member of County Assembly Steve Arika and County Forest Conservator William Ojijo also attended the exercise.
Arika and local elders highlighted the importance of tree planting in controlling soil erosion in the hilly area and promoting fruit production, according to accounts from the event.
The exercise was conducted under the theme “Panda Miti, Boresha Maisha”, which calls on Kenyans to plant trees and improve their surroundings.
Isaboke also commended the monthly Chief Climate Action activities in Kisii Central, saying grassroots initiatives were helping communities participate in environmental conservation.
The school’s tree-planting drive formed part of activities marking National Mazingira Day, which was observed on Saturday, October 10, 2026.
The initiative also underscored the role schools and local communities can play in sustaining tree-growing efforts beyond commemorative events.
