Athi river DCC says Tree species matter when planting trees

Machakos,

WEDNESDAY, November 5, 2023

KNA by Anne Kangero

Athi river Deputy County Commissioner Patrick Mwangi has advised Mavoko residents to be keen on the type of tree species they are planting so that they thrive in their region.

Mwangi was speaking at the East Africa Portland Cement (EAPC) headquarters in Athiriver during the national tree planting day, where he urged the Mavoko community to ensure they plant trees that can grow within the locality so that the trees do not wither and die. 

“What matters is the species of trees planted and what can grow within the locality because if we plant the wrong species then the trees will keep on withering,” said Mwangi.

He said after getting the right species it is one's duty to plant and take care of the trees so that they will survive and benefit the next generation for years to come.

Mwangi reminded the residents of the challenges they faced due to climate change and asked them to make sure the trees they have planted grow and thrive.

“It is one thing to plant a tree but it is different to nurture it to maturity and ensure it survives,” added the DCC.

He pointed out that there are 15 sub-locations in Athi river and each of them has a similar tree planting event but the one at EAPC is the main one and hailed the management team at EAPC for being good stakeholders and honoring President William Ruto’s directive on the national tree planting day. 

The DCC added that after planting trees at the EAPC land, they plan to also plant trees at his office in Athi river, the police station, and Athi river main hospital so that they improve the environment within Athi river and its environs.

On his part, the Managing Director of EAPC Mr. Oliver Kirubai said that they have so far planted 5,000 trees in the Portland area and their target is 1.5 million trees as they intend to follow the presidential directive of 15 billion trees by 2032.

Mr. Kirubai further added that they plan to organize more events that are supported by other government institutions and the private sector so that they can cover the whole of Portland cement with trees while taking advantage of the rainy season.

“We intend to partner with other Government institutions, the County government, and any stakeholders interested in making Kenya green and a better country.,” pointed Kirubai.

Courtesy; KNA