Kenyan Government to Launch Tree-Planting Reward Scheme as Country Targets 15 Billion Trees by 2027

NAIROBI, Kenya – The Kenyan government is set to roll out a reward scheme aimed at motivating citizens to actively participate in tree-planting efforts as part of President William Ruto’s ambitious target to plant 15 billion trees by 2027.

The Ministry of Environment announced plans for a new mobile application available on both iPhones and Android devices, designed to track individual tree-planting activities.

The app will monitor progress and eventually reward participants who contribute significantly to the initiative.

This announcement comes as the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) urges Kenyans to take advantage of the upcoming rainy season to plant more trees.

At the forefront of this drive is environmental advocate Isaac Kalua Green, who has encouraged citizens to celebrate their birthdays by planting trees, turning personal milestones into acts of environmental conservation.

In alignment with the president’s goal, Kenyans are urged to diversify the types of trees they plant, including fruit trees, to improve both forest cover and food security.

The recorded tree-planting activities will be crucial in ensuring individuals’ efforts are recognized and rewarded.

Speaking at Green Africa’s “Plant Your Age” campaign held at Tatu City, Kiambu, Susan Boit, representing Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, reiterated the government’s commitment to increasing forest cover.

Boit emphasized that no effort would be spared in achieving the 15 billion tree target.

Kiambu KFS Chief Conservator Peter Ng’ang’a echoed these sentiments, stressing the need for a national embrace of conservation efforts to protect and expand the country’s forests.

He highlighted the importance of collective action in driving Kenya towards a greener, more sustainable future.

Meanwhile, Dr. Isaac Kalua Green pointed out the financial benefits of tree planting, noting that the youth could leverage carbon credits as a source of income.

He reiterated his call for citizens to plant trees equal to their age, transforming tree planting into both a social and economic endeavor.