KFS sets aside 500Bn to expand tree cover.
Kenya forest service, KFS sets aside 500Bn to expand tree cover. The service in conjunction with the government, is aimed at expansion of Kenya’s Tree cover from the current 12.5 per cent to 30 per cent by 2032.
The Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests in charge of Forest Advisory and County Liaison, Beatrice Mbula stated that they are working on a program to produce 1.5 billion tree seedlings yearly.
This step will mitigate the ongoing drought in more than half of counties in the country.
Speaking at KFS Headquarters in Karura during a Biodiversity Science Cafe’ organised by Media for Environment Science, Health and Agriculture, she added the forest departments are optimistic that they will achieve 25 per cent forest cover by 2030 and cover the remaining five per cent by 2032.
Mbula said,”Some countries have between 70 to 90 per cent forest cover and we are sure that the set target for Kenya is achievable within the set time.”
Mbula further stated that they will mobilize the community to provide them with seedlings to bring the program to light.
She said,”There many tree nurseries that belong to individuals, women and youth groups which will be mobilised to get the seedlings.”
“KFS has also introduced faster growing tree varieties to help attain this goal within the set period.”
“The government is now introducing bamboo especially in riparian areas because it grow faster and shoots quickly after harvesting,” she added.
KFS further stated that their aim is to start small as they progress.
She said,”The presidents has talked about every Kenyans planting 300 tree and we all need to start small if you have the place to do so. Start with at least 50 trees and protect them from the sun and animals and slowly they will mature to survive on their own.”
“With the current numbers, one ranger is expected to protect 1000 hectares of the natural resources instead of the required 400 hectares,” she added.
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