President Ruto Leads 9th Kaptagat Forest Conservation Drive as MTRH CEO Dr. Philip Kirwa Joins National Effort

President William Ruto today presided over the 9th edition of the Kaptagat Forest Integrated Conservation Programme, a flagship environmental restoration initiative held at Simotwo Secondary School in Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The event, which drew participation from various arms of government, was marked by a strong show of inter-agency collaboration in support of Kenya’s ambitious reforestation agenda. Among the dignitaries in attendance was the Chief Executive Officer of Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital (MTRH), Dr. Philip Kirwa, who reaffirmed the hospital’s commitment to advancing national development goals, particularly in health and environmental conservation.

The Kaptagat Forest conservation programme, spearheaded by the Principal Secretary to the National Treasury, Dr. Chris Kiptoo, is part of the broader national effort to combat climate change through ecosystem restoration. The Ministry of Health has adopted Elgeyo Marakwet County as a key focus area in support of the initiative.

Speaking during the event, Dr. Kirwa encouraged local residents to register with the newly established Social Health Authority (SHA), underlining the government’s holistic approach to public welfare — linking health, environment, and sustainable development.

“As MTRH, we are fully aligned with the Government’s agenda and will continue to support initiatives that benefit both the health of our people and the health of our environment,” Dr. Kirwa said.

In the run-up to the President’s visit, Dr. Kirwa also joined the Head of Public Service, Felix Koskei; Environment Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa; several Principal Secretaries; and heads of government agencies for a large-scale tree planting exercise in the area.

The ongoing efforts are expected to restore approximately 500 hectares within the Kaptagat forest ecosystem — a significant step in conserving Kenya’s critical water towers and biodiversity.

The event underscored the growing importance of environmental stewardship at the highest levels of government, reinforcing Kenya’s commitment to sustainability, climate resilience, and community empowerment.