Kenya First Lady Launches 500 Million Tree Growing Programme

Kenya's First Lady, Rachael Ruto has today launched the 500 Million Tree Growing Programme at Karura Forest. Below is what she had to say about the tree planting initiative. 

500 Million Tree Growing Programme in Kenya

I am delighted to join you this morning here at Karura Forest as we launch the First Lady's landscape and ecosystem restoration strategy and implementation plan toward growing 500 million trees by 2032. This plan is critical in shaping the future of our environment and contributing significantly to our nation's sustainable development.

By growing 500 million trees, we will enhance the quality of our air, protect our water resources, provide the habitat for diverse species, and create green spaces that promote the well-being of our citizens.

I call upon every Kenyan to grow at least 30 trees every year, which is a sure path for us to achieve the vision shared by our president: to grow 15 billion trees by 2032 and build a lasting legacy for generations.

The Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry, Hon. Soipan Tuya. Forestry Principal Secretary Mr. Gitonga Mugambi, President of UNEA-6 Hon. Leila Benali, UNEP Executive Director Ms Inger Andersen, and UN officials accompanied the first lady during the launches of the initiative.