Ruto directs KDF to spear-head tree planting drive

President William Ruto inspecting KDF recruits Pass out Parade at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School in Eldoret. [PCS]

President William Ruto has directed the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) to lead the way and collaborate with the Ministry of Environment in planting trees across the country.

Speaking on Wednesday, May 15 during the KDF recruits pass-out parade in Eldoret, Ruto said the exercise will help in mitigation of climate change and avert problems such as floods that have ravaged the country.

"We decided that we are going to plant 15 billion trees across the country. I want to ask the KDF to lead the way to provide the mechanism so that they can be the lead champions in planting the trees in the next 10 years," Ruto said.

During the pass-out, the Head of State also honoured the late Chief of Defence Forces General Francis Ogolla by calling for a moment of silence in his honour.

"Today we are assembled with mixed emotions to this grand pass-out parade. We continue to mourn the recent tragic loss of our departed gallant soldiers including the late General Francis Ogolla. Let us stand for a moment of silence to honour them," Ruto said.

The pass-out parade took place at the Defence Forces Recruits Training School (DFRTS) in Uasin Gishu County following a six-month training of the new KDF personnel.