By Miraj Guo | April 17, 2026
A major tree-planting exercise was held at Mwavini Catholic Church in Matuga Sub-County, bringing together government agencies and the local community in a united effort to combat climate change.
The activity forms part of the National Landscape and Ecosystem Restoration Strategy, which aims to achieve Kenya’s target of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
The exercise saw participation from key security and environmental institutions, including the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS), and Kenya Forest Service (KFS).
KDF officers took part through the Environmental Soldier Program, highlighting the military’s growing role in environmental conservation. Experts from KFS and KWS provided technical guidance to ensure that indigenous tree species suited to the coastal ecosystem were planted.
The tree-planting exercise was supported by Britam Insurance Agency, which sponsored the fruit seedlings used during the event, demonstrating private sector commitment to environmental conservation.
Paul Kagudo of Britam Insurance Agency highlighted the importance of promoting environmental sustainability.
“We are proud to support this initiative as part of our commitment to sustainable development. Investing in tree planting today is an investment in a healthier environment and a better future for our communities,” he said.
Political Advisor Mshenga Ruga represented Kwale County govorner at the event, reaffirming the devolved government’s commitment to restoring degraded land and enhancing biodiversity.
“This initiative is not just about planting trees, but about securing the future of our environment and our people. We must all take responsibility to nurture these trees and ensure they grow for generations to come,” he said.
The selection of Mwavini Catholic Church under reverent Amogust Mudavida as the venue underscored the important role of faith-based organizations in mobilizing communities for environmental stewardship. Religious leaders encouraged residents to take responsibility for nurturing the planted trees to ensure their survival.
Participants were urged to go beyond planting and embrace post-planting care to ensure high survival rates, securing a greener and more sustainable future for Kwale County.
