Environment, Climate Change and Forestry CS Deborah Barasa has spearheaded a tree planting exercise in West Pokot County.
During the function at Lomukee forest in Pokot South Sub County, Barasa pledged to work towards the government’s goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
The CS underscored the importance of coming up with innovative strategies to address climate change challenges and highlighted that the success of tree planting relies on ongoing care and attention after planting.
She also urged households, schools, and community leaders to take an active role in conservation efforts, asserting that there is a significant difference between merely planting a tree and nurturing it to grow.
The CS called on the youth from West Pokot to embrace the message of conservation, encouraging farmers to adopt agroforestry practices and herders to protect young trees from livestock.
“Remember that there is a distinct difference between planting a tree and growing one. I therefore encourage the youth of West Pokot County to champion the gospel of conservation, farmers to embrace agroforestry, and herders to protect seedlings from being ravaged by livestock,’’ Barasa urged.
The CS acknowledged the efforts of local elders for their dedication in restoring riverbanks, which have rejuvenated waterways and supported local ecosystems, ultimately benefiting community health.
She noted that West Pokot has faced environmental challenges such as prolonged drought and land degradation, emphasizing the need for increased tree planting to promote better weather patterns, adding that trees are vital for environmental protection and ecological balance.
Barasa explained that each tree planted contributes to revitalizing the land, enhancing river flows and enriching soil for agricultural growth.
She called on local environmental champions and community groups to plant more trees, framing it as an investment in food security, economic resilience and climate adaptation.
On his part, West Pokot Chief Officer for Water and Environment Leonard Kamsait urged the local community to consider planting more indigenous trees and fruit trees in their homestead, since it will help provide a source of income and livelihood.
In his remarks, West Pokot Chief Officer for Water and Environment, Leonard Kamsait, supported the tree planting initiative by encouraging the community to plant more indigenous and fruit trees, which he noted could provide a source of income and improve livelihoods.
He cautioned against the cutting of trees for charcoal production, informing the community that stern action would be taken against those found harming the environment.
By Anthony Melly
