Senior government and Huawei Technologies Kenya officials join a tree planting exercise in Matathia, Lari, to restore indigenous forests under the national 15 billion trees campaign. Among those present were Michael Kiboino, Khadija Mohammed, Samuel Kariuki, and other partners who unveiled a commemorative plaque to mark the initiative.
By Editorial Team
Limuru, April 17, 2026 — A strong partnership between government, private sector, and communities is driving renewed efforts to restore endangered natural forests in Limuru.
The Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, and Huawei Technologies Kenya led a tree growing exercise in Uplands. The initiative brought together local leaders, forest managers, Community Forest Associations, and residents in a united push to rebuild degraded ecosystems and boost climate resilience.
The exercise supports Kenya’s ambitious plan to grow 15 billion trees by 2032. It also responds to rising concern over forest loss. Data from the Kenya Forest Service shows the country loses more than 84,000 hectares of forest cover each year, with another 15,000 hectares degraded.
Limuru remains a vital ecological zone. Lari Sub-County alone hosts six of the county’s eight forests, making it key for biodiversity, water catchment, and environmental stability.
Speaking during the exercise, Ambassador Michael Kiboino said the initiative shows how diplomacy can move beyond policy into action.
He said global challenges like climate change demand practical solutions at the local level. He added that the partnership is not just about planting trees, but about building a lasting legacy of restoration and conservation.
Huawei, through its #Tech4All platform, said its support reflects a commitment to sustainable development. Public Affairs and Media Director Khadija Mohammed noted that technology and partnerships can help communities adapt to climate change while protecting nature.
The company’s efforts build on earlier projects. In 2025, Huawei partnered with the Kenya Wildlife Service, International Union for Conservation of Nature, and the Wildlife Research and Training Institute to deploy digital conservation tools at the Kisite-Mpunguti Marine Park and Reserve.
Local leaders stressed that real success depends on growing trees, not just planting them. Lari Deputy County Commissioner Samuel Kariuki said consistent monitoring and community involvement are key to long-term survival.
Community voices echoed the same message. Uplands CFA Chairman Tom Kimani said conservation is already transforming lives. He noted that illegal activities like charcoal burning have reduced as residents embrace restoration efforts.
He added that more than 2,600 CFA and CBO members are actively protecting forests. He also emphasized the value of indigenous trees, saying they support ecosystems while improving livelihoods.
Through programmes like the Tree Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme, communities are earning income while restoring forests.
The Limuru initiative highlights a clear shift. By aligning government leadership, private sector investment, and grassroots action, Kenya is strengthening its fight against deforestation and securing its natural heritage for future generations.
