Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has issued a warning to the public against illegal activities that threaten newly planted trees in the nation’s forests.
KFS’s Chief Forest Conservator Alex Lemarkoko emphasised that those found grazing livestock, starting fires, or engaging in other prohibited activities will face strict legal repercussions.
Lemarkoko made these remarks during a tree-planting event organised by the SMACHS Foundation at the Kapchumbe block of Siongiroi Forest in Bomet County, where 1,000 trees were planted.
The event was graced by Susan Boit from the 15 Billion National Tree Growing Programme Secretariat, Bomet County Commissioner Dr Ahmed Omar, Charlene Ruto, patron, SMACHS Foundation and former Bomet Women Representative Cecilia Ngetich.
“We will not tolerate anyone taking advantage of our forests,” Lemarkoko stated. “To achieve the presidential goal of planting 15 billion trees over the next ten years, we need serious commitment from all Kenyans, not just the government,” explained the Conservator.
He also announced plans to plant 5 million trees in Chepalungu Forest and urged local communities to support this initiative.
Lemarkoko called on well-wishers and organisations to emulate the SMACHS Foundation by adopting sections of the forest for tree planting and conservation.
Ms Ruto, shared plans to plant 10 million trees nationwide to help meet the ambitious 15 billion target.
“Our future depends on these trees. Tree planting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to combat climate change,” she remarked.
She noted that the foundation has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with KFS to adopt 2.4 hectares of forest for tree planting, emphasising the importance of protecting these trees to ensure their growth.
“We will engage with local schools and communities to foster awareness and participation in tree conservation,” said the Patron.
On her part, Boit urged Kenyans to support the tree planting campaign, highlighting its potential to boost local economies through commercial agroforestry practices.
She encouraged people to utilise the Jaza Miti initiative, a presidential directive in collaboration with Safaricom and the Ministry of Environment, aimed at facilitating the planting of 15 billion trees.
“The Jaza Miti App allows users to select tree species suitable for their location and to document, track, and monitor the growth of these trees,” Boit explained, emphasising the app’s role in enhancing tree planting efforts across the country.
By Lamech Willy
