By Mandere Onyinkwa
Support from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) proved pivotal as Green Earth Ambassador Hillary Kibiwott set a new tree-planting record at Kessup Forest in Uasin Gishu County.
Backed by KWS through its Iten Station, Kibiwott, 29, planted 23,326 trees within 24 hours—surpassing the previous record of 23,060 and positioning his effort for recognition by Guinness World Records.
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KWS facilitated the ambitious attempt by purchasing 24,000 seedlings and mobilizing 110 casual workers who dug more than 20,000 planting holes ahead of the exercise, ensuring the ground was fully prepared.
“This is not just about breaking a record. It is about restoring our forests and securing the future of our environment,” Kibiwott said after completing the challenge.
He is an emerging environmental ambassador associated with an outfit called Green Earth.
The event attracted key government officials and environmental stakeholders, reflecting the growing national focus on reforestation and climate action.
Among those present were KWS Chairman Mr. Langat, Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo, and Forestry Principal Secretary Mugambi.
KWS hailed the achievement as a major boost to conservation efforts, emphasizing the power of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges.
“This milestone shows what is possible when individuals, institutions, and communities come together for a common cause,” KWS said in a statement.
“We urge Kenyans to join us in restoring our forests—plant a tree, protect our environment, and build a greener future.”
Held at the expansive Kessup Forest, the exercise brought together hundreds of participants, including local communities and conservation groups, turning the record attempt into a broader environmental campaign.
Kibiwott’s feat comes at a critical time as Kenya intensifies efforts to increase forest cover and mitigate the impacts of climate change, including deforestation and unpredictable weather patterns.
