PS Omollo mobilises 3,950 chiefs for monthly one million tree planting

Interior PS Raymond Omollo during the launch of a tree-planting drive at Nderi Primary School in Kikuyu. [Kimaku Chege, Standard]

Interior PS Raymond Omollo has directed 3,950 chiefs to lead a tree-planting drive, as the state seeks to plant one million trees monthly to hit the 15 billion tree target by 2032.

The initiative, according to Omollo, underscores the link between climate action and national security.

During the launch on Monday, November 4,  at Nderi Primary School in Kikuyu Sub-County, Omollo called on chiefs to mobilise their communities for this effort, highlighting the pressing need to address the adverse effects of climate change.

“We recognise that peace, security, and climate change are closely linked. In Kenya, we face numerous climate-related risks to peace and security,” said Omollo.

The PS noted that prolonged droughts and floods have intensified competition for limited resources, leading to conflicts among communities.

He pointed to Nairobi's frequent flooding as an example of how climate-induced displacement creates social tensions.

Each chief is tasked with coordinating the planting of at least 250 trees on the first Friday of every month.

Chiefs will monitor and report progress, ensuring that the trees are well cared for and contribute to the broader climate goals.

Omollo described the chiefs as “climate champions,” essential for driving local engagement and aligning with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda focused on empowering communities.

The launch included Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko and other officials, marking a significant step in the government's commitment to tackling climate challenges and enhancing environmental resilience.