Kenya Marks Mazingira Day with Nationwide Tree Planting and Climate Action

 

By Collins Wasike

Nairobi, Kenya – October 10, 2025 – Kenyans across the country marked Mazingira Day today with a renewed focus on environmental conservation, climate action, and reforestation efforts, in a national holiday that has grown into a symbol of unity and ecological responsibility.

Once commemorated as Moi Day, the holiday was renamed Mazingira Day in 2020 to reflect the country’s shifting priorities toward safeguarding its natural environment. In 2025, celebrations took on greater urgency amid growing concerns over climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

This year’s observance was headlined by a massive tree-planting campaign, aligning with the government’s ambitious plan to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. More than 71 million fruit tree seedlings were distributed to over 35,000 schools nationwide, empowering young Kenyans to take a leading role in restoring forest cover.

President William Ruto led the official tree-planting ceremony at Kaptagat Forest in Elgeyo Marakwet County. In his remarks, he emphasized the need for individual and community action in tackling climate change.

“The fight for our environment will not be won in boardrooms alone. It must be fought in our schools, our homes, and our farms,” President Ruto said.

In a further boost to conservation efforts, the Kenya Forest Service launched the African Champion of Trees (ACT) Awards, a new initiative recognizing outstanding contributions to reforestation. The awards will offer up to Ksh5 million in funding to individuals and organizations championing environmental restoration.

Beyond tree planting, communities across Kenya took part in clean-up drives, recycling initiatives, and environmental education sessions. In Nairobi, youth-led organizations held public forums on sustainable living, while in Kisumu, local artists used music and storytelling to raise awareness about the climate crisis.

Environmental groups have praised the holiday’s transformation into a grassroots-driven event, calling it a vital step in building a climate-conscious society.

“Mazingira Day shows that every Kenyan, young or old, can be a steward of the planet,” said Dr. Miriam Wanjala, an environmental scientist with the Green Future Alliance.

As the sun set on Mazingira Day 2025, a powerful message rang clear across the nation: protecting the environment is a shared responsibility—one that demands action from all corners of society.