Laikipia University marked the World Environment Day 2025 with a powerful three-day celebration from June 5th to 7th, cantered on tree planting, sustainability, and climate action. Aligning with this year’s global theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” the event emphasized environmental conservation, practical climate solutions, and community empowerment.
A United Effort for Environmental Sustainability
Organized in collaboration with CIFOR-ICRAF, Quality Tree Seed for Africa, TerraFund for AFR100, and GROOTS KENYA, the event united university staff, local farmers, students, and key stakeholders under the theme: “Tree Planting for Sustainable Environmental Conservation and Equity.”
The event focused on Agroforestry Training and Tree Planting Techniques, blending theory with practical skills to promote sustainable land use, ecosystem restoration, and climate-smart agriculture.
University Leadership Champions Green Initiatives
The official launch was presided over by Prof. Patience Mshenga, Acting Vice Chancellor, Laikipia University. In her keynote speech, she called on all participants to act as environmental stewards, praising the partners for offering community-based solutions that boost agricultural productivity, support reforestation, and address climate change through innovation and collaboration.
Inclusive Climate Action and Sustainable Seeds
Ms. Katrine Friborg, Team Lead for the Quality Tree Seed for Africa initiative at CIFOR–ICRAF, delivered a compelling presentation that underscored the importance of gender inclusion in agroforestry and climate resilience. She highlighted the value of quality, climate-resilient tree seeds, particularly indigenous species, in restoring ecosystems and supporting sustainable livelihoods. Her address emphasized the need for inclusive seed systems that empower women and marginalized communities.
Prof. Samuel Onyuma, Director, Planning and Performance Management (DPPM) at Laikipia University, reaffirmed the institution’s dedication to environmental sustainability, positioning tree planting as a strategic pillar in the university’s climate mitigation roadmap.
Participation from County Leadership
The event drew notable dignitaries, including H.E. Reuben Kamure, Deputy Governor of Laikipia County, and Ms. Purity Kendi Gitonga, CEC for Public Service. Ms. Gitonga highlighted the critical role of reforestation in securing future generations and reiterated county support for smart agriculture and cooperative models as tools for sustainable development.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, H.E. Kamure urged farmers to embrace high-quality certified seeds and confirmed the county government’s commitment to soil health improvement. He commended Laikipia University for its impactful partnerships, especially those advancing women’s empowerment, noting that empowered women transform entire communities.
Environmental Impact and Community Empowerment
The event combined education, action, and empowerment, culminating in:
- Training over 900 farmers and 150 university staff on agroforestry, quality tree seed systems, and sustainable tree growing techniques.
- Planting over 2,000 tree seedlings (including fruit-bearing and indigenous species) across 7.37 acres of university land to create a greener, more sustainable campus.
- Distributing more than 4,000 tree seedlings to over 1,000 trained participants from various regions in Laikipia County to encourage community-led reforestation efforts.
Participants received a mix of fruit, ornamental, and indigenous tree seedlings to plant in their homes and farms. These trees will serve not only as sources of food, timber, medicine, and shade, but also as symbols of resilience, environmental stewardship, and hope.
Planting Trees, Nurturing the Future
As the event concluded, one resonant message echoed across all activities and speeches: “We are not just planting trees; we are nurturing hope, resilience, and a sustainable future for generations to come.”
Laikipia University’s World Environment Day 2025 celebration was more than a ceremonial occasion - it was a powerful step towards climate resilience, community empowerment, and a greener Kenya.
