AA Kenya and partners launch tree planting initiative

In March, AA Kenya launched a joint tree-planting initiative with four other partners by planting a tree at the VetLab Sports Club. The event was attended by AA Kenya President Jinaro Kibet and CEO Francis Theuri, and other members of the Association’s management.

The initiative aims to bring together the Association, M.P Shah Hospital, The Lions SightFirst Eye Hospital, St. John Ambulance, Kingsway Group, and other partners to plant 200,000 trees on a ten-acre piece of land at Thiba Dam in Kirinyaga County, as well as plant trees at a new football pitch at the Vet Lab Sports Club.

This tree-planting exercise supports the Kenyan Government’s strategy to increase forest cover, restore degraded land, protect habitats, and combat climate change. AA Kenya President, Jinaro Kibet, challenged county governments and other institutions to prioritize tree planting to curb the effects of climate change.

Speaking during the launch, AA Kenya President Jinaro Kibet lauded the partners for their contributions towards environmental conservation.

“Climate change poses a great threat to the planet. It is good to see all these partners coming together to play their part in conserving the environment,” Kibet noted.

The organizations have secured a piece of land in Kirinyaga County to plant trees and create a recreational park, and a picnic site for locals to enjoy the forest scenery.

AA staff and Governing Council members pose for a photo during the launch of the tree-planting exercise

Tree planting is a global buzzword, and for a good reason. The world is facing unprecedented challenges, including climate change, loss of biodiversity, and environmental degradation. Tree planting is a simple yet powerful solution that can help address these challenges.

The importance of trees cannot be overstated. They regulate the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere through photosynthesis. They also provide vital ecosystem services, such as preventing soil erosion, improving air and water quality, and providing habitat for wildlife.

Kenya has also been at the forefront of promoting tree planting. The government has launched a tree-planting campaign. The campaign has received massive support from various stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations, private companies, and individuals. Schools, churches, and community-based organizations have also joined the bandwagon, with many of them planting trees in their respective localities.

Apart from environmental benefits, tree planting also provides numerous social and economic benefits. It improves food security by promoting agroforestry, which integrates tree planting with farming.

Tree planting is a crucial activity that can help address the global challenges facing society. Governments, non-governmental organizations, and individuals all have a role to play in promoting tree-planting initiatives. Tree planting not only benefits the environment but also provides numerous social and economic benefits. It is a win-win solution that can help create a sustainable future for generations to come.

 

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