Murang’a County residents have been urged to make full use of the ongoing short rains by planting trees in a renewed push to protect the environment and increase forest cover.
Speaking during a tree planting exercise at Kimakia Forest in the Aberdares, Acting County Commissioner Charles Muriithi reaffirmed the government’s commitment to Kenya’s goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
He noted that Murang’a alone targets 134 million trees within the same period and called on residents to plant trees on their farms or join community initiatives supporting the effort.
“During this rainy season, we must ensure every household plants trees. Those who can, should join forest conservation groups to help us achieve our county target,” said Muriithi.
During the event, 40,000 indigenous and exotic trees were planted in a partnership that included the National Government Administrative Officers (NGAO), the County Security Team, MUWASCO, NEMA, the Meteorological Department, and several schools.
County Conservator Eunice Njoroge emphasized the importance of planting resilient species like Grevillea, Croton, Markhamia, and Podocarpus, noting that the short rains provide ideal conditions for tree establishment.
She also encouraged residents to focus on indigenous species that protect water sources and prevent soil erosion, especially around the Aberdare ecosystem the source of key rivers such as Mathioya, Maragua, and Chania.
“The rains present a perfect window to plant trees that not only thrive but also support biodiversity,” Njoroge said, adding that the county hopes each household can plant at least five trees this season.
Murang’a currently boasts a tree cover of 27.8 percent and a forest cover of 16.68 percent, making it one of the leading counties in environmental conservation. The Kenya Forest Service continues to champion enrichment planting to boost biodiversity in existing forests without disrupting natural habitats.
