More than 100 million fruit trees will be planted in primary schools across Kenya, as the government intensifies efforts to integrate environmental conservation with food security and education.
This bold initiative, announced by Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Mulongo, headlined the 2025 Mazingira Day celebrations held at Kabuyefwe Primary School inTrans Nzoia County.
The day was marked with a strong national focus on planting fruit trees in learning institutions, symbolizing a new approach to climate action — one rooted in community participation and long-term sustainability.
“The planting of fruit trees in our schools not only contributes to climate resilience but also enhances nutrition and instills a culture of environmental responsibility in our children,” said Dr. Mulongo during the national event.
To support the rollout, over 100,000 seedlings have already been distributed and planted in 672 primary schools in Trans Nzoia county.
The Ministry also provided water tanks to the schools to ensure the trees are well maintained, especially in regions prone to water scarcity.
The initiative is part of the government’s broader 15 billion tree-planting target by 2032, with fruit trees playing a key role in delivering both environmental and social benefits.
"So far, 1 billion trees have been planted over the past two years, showcasing impressive progress," the cabinet secretary said.
To meet the increasing demand for seedlings, the Ministry has established 317 tree nurseries, with a target of 2,000 nurseries nationwide.
Among these, 17 mega nurseries — primarily producing fruit trees — will supply schools and communities across the country.
Dr. Mulongo also launched the Conservation of Integrated Natural Resources Programme, which will begin in Trans Nzoia County.
The program will focus on sustainable land use, water conservation, and forest restoration at the grassroots level.
Kiminini MP Kakai Bisau, Kwanza MP Ferdinand Wanyonyi, and Endebess MP Dr. Robert Pukose praised the Ministry’s focus on schools and called on residents to embrace tree planting as a way of life.
“Climate changeis a national concern, and the responsibility lies with all of us — government, citizens, and communities alike,” Dr. Pukose emphasized.
Mazingira Day was celebrated with tree-planting drives, school-based environmental education sessions, and community mobilization activities across the country — reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to a greener, healthier environment.