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By Tracy Omballa

CGTN Africa Desk Editor

More than 200 volunteers came together in Nairobi for a cause that promises to leave a lasting legacy. The event, organized by the Rotaract Club of Nairobi Central (RCNC) in collaboration with the Rotaract Clubs of United States International University and Milimani, Green World Tree Nursery, saw residents of all ages, backgrounds, and professions plant 700 seedlings across the Nairobi School farm.

Goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032

The massive tree planting was one of several Mazingira Day activities across Kenya on Thursday. It’s part of the government’s efforts to contribute to a greener, more sustainable future for the country.

Now in its second year, Mazingira Day has become a much-anticipated event for the community and the government. The holiday aligns with the National Landscape and Ecosystem Restoration Programme, which aims to restore 10.6 million hectares of degraded land by 2032. A key part of this ambitious plan involves planting 15 billion trees by 2032, an effort that requires the full participation of the government of Kenya and society.

“The Kenyan government’s commitment to increasing forest cover is an initiative we support,” said Paul Abok, the community service director and one of the lead organizers of the event. “The Rotaract Club of Nairobi Central has contributed to this by planting over 1,300 trees in the Interact Clubs at high schools we oversee, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Nairobi in June this year. “

Abok said the group plans to establish tree nurseries in some high schools with the Interact Clubs the RCNC oversees. 

Mazingira Day lends credence to restoration goals

Volunteers arrived early, with jembes ready to dig, plant, and nurture; students, families, and senior citizens among them. The variety of tree species planted was carefully selected to match the local ecosystem, ensuring long-term sustainability. These included species like grafted avocado trees, chosen for their resilience and ability to adapt to the city’s climate

“Many people also want to plant trees that benefit them, and fruit trees are the way to go because there is a need for food security in addition to conserving the environment,” Joyce Nyawira- Founder of Green World Tree Nursery explains.  “For instance, we have quality grafted avocados. You are assured within two to three years, you can get the fruits, because they are modified, and they can stay even in harsh conditions.  So, someone is more encouraged to plant such a tree because they will get benefit from it. So, indirectly, you are preserving the environment and at the same time, combating food insecurity.”

Together with international initiatives to address climate change and advance sustainable development, Mazingira Day lends credence to Kenya’s environmental restoration goals.

“The Rotaract Club of Nairobi Central is committed to community service, Abok says. “And Thursday’s tree planting exercise shows this dedication. By actively participating in environmental conservation efforts, we empower young people to become stewards of the environment. Through our actions, we not only contribute to a greener Kenya but also inspire others to engage in sustainable practices, fostering a culture of environmental responsibility.

Tree-planting exercise aligns with UN SDG Goal 15

Abok says this aligns with United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 15, which emphasizes protecting and restoring ecosystems.

By the end of the day, 734 trees stood proudly in their new homes, stretching towards the sky.

The impact of Mazingira Day extends far beyond the immediate physical transformation. It fosters a sense of connection to nature, a sense of pride in the community, and a shared responsibility to protect the environment.

Volunteers will return to care for the trees and monitor their growth. The event reminds us that meaningful environmental action does not always require large-scale projects. It starts with a single tree, and a community ready to make a difference.