Garissa County Forest Conservator Christopher Kapula and County Police Commander Samson Chelugo joined students and community members today to plant tree seedlings at NEP Girls’ High School. The event marked the global observance of International Day of Forests, held under the theme “Forests and innovation: new solutions for a better world.”
The gathering brought together forestry officials, security leaders, school administrators, and local stakeholders. They used the occasion to highlight the dual role of forests in environmental protection and economic development.
Planting for the Future
The symbolic tree-planting ceremony took place on the school grounds. Kapula and Chelugo held up seedlings before placing them in the soil, encouraging students to participate actively.
The activity aligns with Kenya’s national push to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. Garissa County contributes through school-based and community nurseries. Officials say such efforts help combat desertification in the arid region while building green cover.
Urging Youth to Tap Forestry Opportunities
Speakers stressed that forests offer real pathways to income and jobs. They called on Kenyans, especially young people, to seize these chances.
County Forest Conservator Christopher Kapula pointed to tree nurseries as a strong entry point. “Our young people can generate income and create employment opportunities by starting tree nurseries,” he said. “These nurseries offer income through the selling of seedlings, especially at a time when we are talking about planting 15 billion trees.”
He added that demand for quality seedlings remains high. Government agencies, NGOs, and private planters buy them in large numbers to meet annual targets.
Diversifying Income Through Nature-Based Activities
Kapula also highlighted other forest-linked ventures. Beekeeping stands out as a low-cost, high-return option in wooded areas.
“Kenyans could benefit from other nature-based activities such as beekeeping in forests,” he noted. Honey production provides steady cash flow. It requires minimal startup and suits semi-arid zones where flowering trees support bees year-round.
These activities fit well in Garissa. The county has pockets of natural vegetation along rivers and seasonal forests. Beekeepers can operate without heavy investment, and markets for honey grow steadily.
Broader Benefits for Livelihoods and Resilience
Forestry stakeholders emphasized wider gains. Tree nurseries create jobs for youth and women. Beekeeping supports rural households and reduces reliance on charcoal burning.
Improved tree cover helps stabilize soils, recharge groundwater, and moderate temperatures. In arid Garissa, these changes build climate resilience against prolonged droughts.
Schools like NEP Girls’ High play a key role. Student involvement fosters environmental awareness and practical skills. Many participants expressed interest in starting small nurseries or apiaries.
Momentum Toward National Goals
Today’s event reflects growing focus on forestry as an economic driver. National campaigns promote seedling production and sustainable enterprises.
With continued support, Garissa aims to expand community nurseries and protected areas. Officials say innovation in forestry can lift incomes while restoring the landscape.
As Kenya advances toward its 15 billion tree target, events like this show how local action ties environmental goals to better livelihoods.
