Kithure Kindiki Declares Monday 13th A Public Holiday For Kenyans To Plant Trees

In a significant step towards environmental conservation, Kenya’s Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kithure Kindiki, has officially declared Monday, November 13, 2023, a public holiday dedicated to nationwide tree planting.

This decision aligns with the government’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, a crucial initiative aimed at combating climate change and restoring Kenya’s natural ecosystems.

As part of this initiative, a designated national tree planting ceremony will be held under the leadership of President William Samoei Ruto, while Cabinet Secretaries and Governors will oversee tree planting activities in all 47 counties, encouraging active participation from Kenyan citizens and the general public.

This decision stems from a Cabinet meeting held on November 3rd, where the designation of a special working day for tree planting was unanimously agreed upon. This move underscores the government’s recognition of the urgency of addressing climate change and its commitment to fulfilling the 15 billion tree pledge.

Each Cabinet Secretary will be responsible for adopting at least two counties and providing leadership in the tree planting initiative. This decentralized approach ensures that the campaign reaches every corner of the country, maximizing its impact on Kenya’s forest cover and overall environmental health.

The government’s comprehensive tree planting strategy also includes the distribution of tree seedlings through chiefs, aiming to accelerate tree-growing activities across the nation. This aggressive campaign targets an increase of five billion trees in the country’s forest cover, a significant step towards restoring and preserving Kenya’s precious natural resources.

President Ruto’s unwavering dedication to environmental conservation has garnered recognition from both local and international leaders. King Charles III, a renowned advocate for environmental protection, has expressed admiration for President Ruto’s ambitious tree-planting initiative, acknowledging its potential to make a lasting positive impact on the planet.

Kenya’s decision to declare a public holiday for tree planting sets a powerful precedent for other nations to follow, demonstrating the importance of prioritizing environmental restoration and sustainability as we strive for a healthier and more resilient future.