The North Rift Conservancy joined the world in commemorating the International Day of Forests (IDF) on March 21, 2026, through coordinated tree planting activities across West Pokot and Elgeyo Marakwet counties.
Led by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) in collaboration with partners including Ministry of Education, National Government Administration Officers, National Police Service, and local communities, the exercise brought together government agencies, institutions and residents in a shared commitment to restoring forest cover and enhancing environmental sustainability.
The events were graced by local administrators across various sub-counties, underscoring the importance of multi-sectoral support in conservation efforts.
How many seedlings were planted during International Day of Forests?
A total of over 16,000 seedlings were planted across key sites including Kapkoris Primary School, AIC Chesombur Secondary School, Propoi Secondary School, St. Matias Kalumba Secondary School, and Sing’ore 2(B) under Elgeyo Forest Station.
The planting covered more than 10 hectares, with activities ranging from boundary planting and woodlot establishment to large-scale plantation development.
Dominant species planted included Cupressus lusitanica and Cassia siamea, selected for their adaptability and value in supporting both ecological restoration and community livelihoods.
The exercise was supported by a wide range of stakeholders including Nature Kenya, NETFUND, KWS, NEMA, the Eldoret-Iten Water Fund, and community forest associations, reflecting a strong partnership approach to forest conservation.
Across all sites, the activities were successfully carried out, with continued planting planned in some areas to further boost forest cover.
The celebrations highlighted the critical role of forests in climate regulation, water catchment protection, and socio-economic development, reaffirming the Conservancy’s commitment to sustainable forest management and restoration.
