Dr. Chris Kiptoo Honoured as National Hero for Environmental Conservation Efforts

 

By Wasike Elvis 

Dr. Chris Kiptoo, Principal Secretary to the National Treasury, was today conferred with the prestigious title of National Hero – Shujaa by His Excellency President Dr. William Samoei Ruto during the Mashujaa Day celebrations held in Kitui County. The recognition was made in the presence of His Excellency Bassirou Diomaye Faye, President of Senegal, who graced the national event as a special guest.

Dr. Kiptoo received the honour for his exemplary leadership and commitment to environmental conservation through the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme (KICP), which he has spearheaded for the past nine years. The programme has become a model initiative in Kenya, demonstrating the transformative power of integrating ecosystem restoration with community empowerment.

“I am humbled and deeply honoured to be recognised as a National Hero – Shujaa. This honour is a tribute to the collective effort of our communities, partners, and institutions who have walked this journey with us,” Dr. Kiptoo said after receiving the award.

The Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme has become a flagship environmental initiative, focusing on restoring the Kaptagat ecosystem — a critical water tower in Kenya’s Rift Valley region. The programme has combined reforestation efforts with tangible livelihood interventions under the pillars of Maji Safi (Clean Water), Kawi Safi (Clean Energy), Mazingira Safi (Clean Environment), and Pesa Mfukoni (Income Generation).

Dr. Kiptoo has championed a holistic model that not only targets environmental restoration but also uplifts local communities through sustainable development. His approach has received national and international attention, positioning Kenya as a continental leader in green growth and climate action.

In his call to action, Dr. Kiptoo urged all Kenyans to support the national tree-growing target of 15 billion trees by 2032, a key pillar in Kenya’s climate resilience and sustainable development strategy.

“Let us keep greening Kenya — not just to meet our environmental goals, but to transform the lives of our people and secure a prosperous future for our nation,” he said.

The Mashujaa Day celebrations this year focused on honouring individuals who have made outstanding contributions to national development across various sectors. Dr. Kiptoo’s recognition highlights the growing importance of environmental conservation in Kenya’s national agenda.