Plant native trees, experts now urge

Lawrence Ogoda (bending) showing seedlings at his farm.

At a time when Kenya, like many other parts of the globe, is grappling with climate change and its effects, calls to plant trees in large numbers have been rampant. However, experts have called for a keen focus not just on planting trees but also on minding the specific species planted in particular areas.

While tree planting by itself is important, ensuring that the right trees are planted in specific areas where they can survive and thrive is even more vital. "Trees that are native to a particular region should be encouraged because they are adaptive to the climatic conditions of these areas," says Mr. Francis Oduor, the national lead of the My Farm Trees project at The Alliance of Bioversity and International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT).