NSSF targets 2 million trees in landmark conservation drive

Trustee Dr.Musa Nyandusi and NSSF Board of Trustees Chairman Mr. David Kariuki Njeru plant a tree at Migaa golf course in Kiambu. George Njunge/Standard]

The National Social Security Fund (NSSF) is leading a campaign aimed at planting 2 million trees this financial year, together with the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection.

According to the NSSF, the campaign is a transformative project aligned with Kenya's Vision 2030, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and global climate action efforts.

Speaking in Kiambu during a tree planting day in conjunction with Migaa Golf Club, Ronald Migosi, the NSSF Managing Trustee, said that the initiative underscores NSSF's commitment to environmental stewardship, socio-economic growth and community engagement.

"We are celebrating NSSF's 60th anniversary. As such, together with Migaa Golf Club and Finnet Trust Foundation, we have joined forces to lead a transformative initiative that integrates environmental conservation and community empowerment. This initiative not only contributes to a sustainable future but also offers a unique opportunity to align NSSF with a high-profile cause that resonates with national priorities," Migosi said.

Migosi added that the noble initiative aligns with the presidential directive on tree planting as a key part of the country's strategy to combat climate change, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and restore degraded landscapes.

Peter Mungai from Kiambu Migaa Golf Club said that anyone and everyone should plant a tree not to cover themselves tomorrow or in the near future, but to ensure someone is covered by the tree years to come.

"Planting a tree is not supposed to be beneficial to the person planting immediately. The tree and shade cover we are enjoying is the result of a person who planted a tree years ago. They did not benefit, but we are here enjoying cool weather and shade under trees as old as 100 years - and that is the beauty of planting trees," Mungai said.

President William Ruto, on 10 May 2024, kicked off a campaign aimed at planting over 5 billion trees in the country. He personally committed himself to planting 20,000 trees.