Kenya on Thursday joined the rest of the world in marking #WorldBambooDay, an annual event that underscores the environmental, cultural, and economic importance of bamboo. The national celebrations were held at the University of Kabianga in Kericho County, led by the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Barasa.

Launch of Bamboo Strategy

The event also saw the official launch of the National Bamboo Development Strategy and Action Plan (2025–2035). Dr. Barasa said the roadmap will enhance bamboo growing, promote sustainable management, and strengthen value chain development. She noted that with bamboo now gazetted as a cash crop, Kenya has laid a solid legal foundation for its commercialization.

KFS and KEFRI Commitments

The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Board Chairman, Mr. Titus Korir, reaffirmed the Service’s efforts to advance bamboo technology, positioning it as a commercial species. He also announced the forthcoming Africa Champion of Trees Awards, which will recognize outstanding tree-growing initiatives.

The Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) pledged continued research and innovation in bamboo, noting its potential to create jobs, boost livelihoods, and contribute to the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA).

Marking the Day

To mark the day, 1,000 bamboo seedlings were planted, with an additional 4,000 donated to the local community. This year’s celebrations ran under the theme: “Bamboo for Planet, People and Climate Solutions.”

Importance of the Day

The commemoration reinforced Kenya’s commitment to green growth and climate resilience, showcasing bamboo as a game-changer in sustainable development.