Environment CS Aden Duale, Earth Keepers Foundation CEO Manish Shah Environment and Forestry PS Gitonga Mugambi and India High Commissioner Ms. Namgya Khampa planting trees in City Park Nairobi
In a remarkable gesture of environmental commitment, Kenya commemorated India’s 78th Independence Day with a significant climate action event centered around bamboo planting.
The initiative, held at City Park Nairobi, was organized by the Earth Keepers Foundation and featured a keynote address by Hon. Aden Duale, Cabinet Secretary for the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry.
Duale’s speech highlighted the critical role bamboo plays in combating climate change. Due to its rapid growth and exceptional carbon sequestration abilities, bamboo is seen as a potent tool for reducing greenhouse gases. Duale also noted its ecological benefits, including preventing soil erosion and fostering biodiversity.
During the event, 3,000 bamboo seedlings were planted, contributing to Kenya’s ambitious 15 Billion Tree Growing Program, which aims to expand forest cover to 30 percent by 2032. Duale underscored the importance of international cooperation in environmental conservation, lauding the partnership between Kenya and India, which was represented by High Commissioner Ms. Namgya Khampa.
High Commissioner of India to Kenya Ms Namgya Khampa planting tree at Nairobi City Park during celebration of India 78th independence day with Environment CS Aden Duale
He stressed that collective efforts are essential for achieving environmental goals and highlighted the bamboo initiative’s potential for job creation and sustainable development.
“As we plant 3,000 bamboo seedlings today, we take a significant step towards our target of 15 billion trees. Each seedling represents a commitment to a greener, healthier, and more resilient Kenya” CS Duale said
Dr. Manish Shah, CEO of the Earth Keepers Foundation, reflected on the symbolic value of the seedlings. Each of the 3,000 seedlings represents a tribute to Mother Nature, reinforcing a commitment to a sustainable future. He also emphasized the significance of nurturing the environment and developing a responsible relationship with nature.
United Nations Residence Coordinator in Kenya, Dr. Steven Jackson, noted the importance of collaborative efforts between Kenya and India in addressing climate change. He mentioned the upcoming “Summit of the Future” in September in New York, which will address emerging issues like social unrest and climate change.
India High Commissioner to Kenya Namgya Khampa emphasized the shared climate challenges faced by Kenya and India, pointing to the recent environmental issues experienced in Kenya. She reiterated the need for global and local cooperation to tackle the climate crisis, highlighting India’s campaign, “Ek Paid Ma Ke Naam” (a tree for mothers), and President William Ruto’s goal to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.
CS Aden Duale reinforced the importance of bamboo in conserving soil and enhancing Kenya’s green landscape. He announced that Kenya planted 400 million trees in the previous financial year and emphasized the ongoing efforts to improve City Park. Duale called for global cooperation and action to protect nature and achieve environmental sustainability.
The event marked a significant step in Kenya’s environmental efforts, reflecting a deepened commitment to both national and global climate action goals.