Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barassa has assessed the Kinale Forest Tree Nursery Station in Kiambu County, calling it a “bold and defining moment in our journey to transform Kenya’s forestry landscape.” The facility is part of the government’s push to establish mega tree nurseries nationwide under President William Ruto’s 15-billion-tree agenda.
“This initiative is not just about seedlings, it is about securing our environmental future, restoring degraded landscapes, creating green jobs, and accelerating the realization of the 15-billion-tree agenda,” she said in a statement through her social media platforms, describing Kinale as a “living symbol of scale, quality and sustainability.”
Boosting environmental resilience and livelihoods
CS Barassa highlighted that the nursery would prioritize indigenous species and agroforestry trees that support farmers, strengthen biodiversity, and enhance ecosystem resilience.
“we are deliberately promoting local production of fast-growing, environmentally suitable tree species that respond directly to our climate realities and community needs.” Emphasized the CS.
She added that beyond environmental benefits, Kinale would create meaningful job opportunities, uplift livelihoods, and ensure a reliable supply of seedlings for Kiambu County and beyond, advancing the President’s #15BillionTrees vision.
Seedling targets and accountability
To sustain momentum, CS Barassa issued a directive for Kinale to propagate a minimum of one million seedlings within the next three months, with a target of two million. “We will move across our nurseries to evaluate progress and ensure full performance and accountability.” She explained.
Community engagement and collaboration
Reflecting on her visit, the Cabinet Secretary said her interaction with community members, including the elderly, youth, mothers, and fathers, “reaffirmed that this project is more than infrastructure; it is a milestone of inclusion, dignity, and opportunity for our communities and our nation.”
She was accompanied by the Chief Conservator of Forests and CEO of the Kenya Forest Service, Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, and other officials, highlighting the collective commitment to delivering results for Kenya.
