State agencies join to boost Kenya’s forest cover

State agencies have stepped up efforts to increase forest cover in the country by 2022.

The ministry of ICT, Communication Authority of Kenya (CA), Kenya Film Commission, the ICT Authority and Ngong Hills Metro Community Forest Association on Friday planted 5000 seedlings in Ngong, Nairobi.

The Chief Guest Juliana Yampan representing the Cabinet Secretary for ICT stated that it is the responsibility of every state organisation to ensure the National Government's targets are met.

She reiterated that Ministry is thus committed to contributing to the attainment of 10 per cent tree cover for Kenya and will continue working hand in hand with Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in other forest rehabilitation programs to ensure the target is met by 2022.

The Nairobi region Head of Conservancy Francis Kariuki added that rehabilitation of degraded areas in Ngong Hills will require an input of several stakeholders and KFS will work with willing partners to ensure complete rehabilitation.
The Community Forest Association pledged to complement efforts in the protection of the 5 Hectares site to ensure the seedlings grow to maturity.

Meanwhile, CS Keriako Tobiko has called on World Wetlands Day National Steering Committee to dedicate the day to actual activities, including the promotion of bamboo tree seedlings through planting.

The CS also challenged the team to plan for build-up activities towards raising awareness about the vital role of wetlands.

This year's World Wetlands Day will be marked at the Enapuiyapui wetland in Kiptunga Forest, Nakuru County, on February 2, 2020.

The Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests (Protection & Security) Mr Alex Lemarkoko represented KFS in the meeting.