KENYA ARMY TROOPS TAKE LEAD IN TREE PLANTING EXERCISES

Kenya Army troops from the 78 Tank Battalion and the Kenya Army Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering spearheaded tree planting exercises at Giaki Farm and Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital, along with the surrounding areas.

Through the Environmental Soldier Program, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) have positioned their personnel at the forefront of environmental security initiatives. The tree planting efforts align with the National Tree Planting Campaign, which aims to plant 10 billion trees by 2032.

At Giaki Farm, the 78th Tank Battalion, in collaboration with staff and students from Meru National Polytechnic and local residents, planted over 5,100 tree seedlings. Speaking to the troops, Commanding Officer Lieutenant Colonel Koima emphasized the KDF’s commitment to achieving environmental sustainability through tree planting. He noted that the KDF continues to collaborate with various stakeholders to ensure the targets of the Environmental Soldier Program are met.

Meanwhile, troops from the Kenya Army Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineering, led by Major Boaz Ongare, partnered with Diamond Trust Bank, NCBA Bank Kenya, Kenya Forest Service, Greens of Africa Foundation, Rotary Club of Muthaiga North, and local residents. Together, they planted over 25,000 assorted tree species at Mathari National Teaching and Referral Hospital and its environs.

In his remarks, Major Ongare commended all participants for their dedication, stating that their commitment to environmental conservation was both inspiring and impactful.