HILLARY KIPLAGAT KIBIWOT CHAMPIONING FOREST RESTORATION AND TREE PLANTING MILESTONES

The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to Kenya’s forest restoration agenda following a high-level visit to Kessup Forest in Elgeyo Marakwet County, where stakeholders gathered to support an ongoing tree-planting initiative spearheaded by Hillary Kiplagat Kibiwott. The initiative continues to gain national recognition as a strong example of individual leadership driving environmental conservation and community mobilisation.

Forestry Principal Secretary Gitonga Mugambi, accompanied by National Treasury Principal Secretary Dr. Chris Kiptoo and Elgeyo Marakwet Governor Wisley Rotich, underscored the importance of multi-sectoral collaboration in advancing sustainable forest management and climate action. The leaders emphasized that partnerships between government, communities, and development agencies are key to achieving meaningful and lasting restoration outcomes.

Kibiwott’s initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader goal of restoring degraded landscapes under the national tree-growing programme. Through sustained community engagement and nationwide participation, the programme seeks to enhance biodiversity, rehabilitate ecosystems, and improve livelihoods. Officials noted that such grassroots-driven efforts are critical in accelerating progress towards the country’s ambitious environmental targets.

Speaking during the exercise, leaders reiterated the significance of the 15 billion trees initiative as a transformative agenda aimed at restoring degraded landscapes, strengthening climate resilience, and securing the future of Kenya’s natural resources. The coordinated planting activities at Kessup Forest, involving community members, government agencies, and partners, demonstrated the power of collective action in delivering measurable environmental impact.

Also present were Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko and Forest Development Secretary George Tarus, alongside representatives from key institutions including the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Wildlife Service, Kenya Forestry Research Institute, FAO Kenya, and the National Environment Trust Fund, among others. The initiative continues to inspire wider participation in building a greener and more sustainable future.