The Maasai Mara University together with a contingent of military personnel preparing for the National Madaraka Day Celebrations have planted over 10, 000 tree seedlings at the institution’s Botanical Garden.
Speaking during the event Thursday, the University Vice Chancellor (VC), Prof. Mary Walingo said the medicinal trees that were planted will go a long way in conserving the environment.
“Among the programmes we offer at the University is environmental management, hence we have to lead by example by planting as many trees as possible in our school compound,” said Walingo.
About 1, 500 members of the disciplined forces have been camping at the university grounds rehearsing for the
forthcoming Madaraka Day Celebrations.
The VC disclosed that the university will pay a little money to the environmental club members who will be tasked with the responsibility of caring for the seedlings.
“I assure you that none of the seedlings will dry up as we will team up with our students in protecting them despite the harsh weather condition. The university will pay students determined to nurture the trees,” she said.
She lauded President Uhuru Kenyatta for accepting to hold the national celebrations in the county, saying the presence of many visitors in the area, will boost local economy.
“I particularly feel favoured to host the military on our institution’s ground. We are happy that they are disciplined men and women whom we have lived with in peace for the last two weeks they have been with us. They are humble, friendly and patriotic,” said the VC.
The 56th Madaraka Day will be celebrated at the Narok stadium and will be the sixth national celebrations to be held outside Nairobi city after Machakos, Nakuru, Nyeri, Meru and Kakamega counties.
The fete has come with multiple blessings to the residents as major renovations are being carried out in Narok town, among them beautifying the town by cleaning the streets, renovation of roads and construction of a presidential lounge.
By Ann Salaton
