Kaitese, 3 December 2024 (Public Communications and Media Relations)

Turkana County has initiated a free tree seedling distribution program to promote environmental conservation and mitigate the effects of climate change.

The acting Director for Natural Resources, Pauline Pusiye, announced the distribution of 20,000 tree seedlings. Speaking during the launch in Kaitese, Loima, she described the initiative as a crucial step in the county’s efforts to reverse environmental degradation and enhance climate resilience.

“The massive distribution is part of an integrated intervention by the County to conserve the environment and mitigate the impact of climate change in Turkana,” said Pusiye.

She explained that the program targets both individual residents and organized groups like schools, churches, and institutions.

The initiative aligns with Kenya’s national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, a target set by President William Ruto to restore degraded landscapes and enhance carbon credit opportunities.

“We will distribute both drought-resistant and exotic species suited to Turkana’s climatic conditions,” Pusiye added.

Local leader Joseph Morungole commended the county government’s efforts and emphasized the economic benefits of tree planting. “Turkana has borne the brunt of deforestation, and measures like this are crucial for reversing the trend,” Morungole said.

Over 500 seedlings were distributed to Kaitese residents during the launch, with plans to expand the initiative countywide.

The seeding distribution team included Natural Resources officers Jennifer Lokaale, Millicent Chamale, Richard Ekiru, and Dorcas Munyes.