West pokot: Public Works Principal Secretary Joel Arumonyang has urged Kenyans to support the government in achieving key pillars of its development agenda for future generations. Speaking at his former primary school, Kapsangar Primary School, in Pokot South Sub-County, Arumonyang led residents and delegations from various government departments in a tree planting drive to mark this year's Mazingira Day, underscoring the value of planting more trees for environmental sustainability.

According to Kenya News Agency, Arumonyang urged Kenyans to plant 30 trees each to assist the government in achieving its 15 billion tree target by 2032. He emphasized that past human activities have reduced forest cover and contributed to climate change. Highlighting the significance of the area as a water tower rich in both indigenous and exotic trees, he stressed the importance of protection and restoration efforts.

Arumonyang, accompanied by a team from his department, planted over 5,000 trees. He noted that the government is striving to excel in the five pillars of development, including universal health coverage, affordable housing, digital superhighway, agriculture, and environment and climate change. He encouraged all Kenyans to participate in these initiatives. Arumonyang also commended the residents for maintaining peace in the area bordering Elgeyo Marakwet County.

The PS highlighted the success of Kapsangar Primary School as a producer of numerous professionals and its proximity to two well-performing secondary schools and ten primary schools. He emphasized that the tree planting campaign associated with these institutions will aid the government in achieving its environmental objectives.

The government has introduced initiatives to reduce charcoal use, which remains prevalent in some areas. For instance, some schools have begun using LPG for cooking, leading to a decrease in firewood consumption and contributing to reduced tree cover. Arumonyang noted that about 20 schools are currently using gas as their main source of energy.

National Construction Authority Director Engineer Mourice Aketch emphasized the importance of trees in the construction industry, stating that a sustainable construction sector requires sufficient timber production for green construction. Meanwhile, businessman Noah Maina pledged the private sector's support for the government's tree planting initiative, acknowledging the role of trees in addressing challenges posed by global warming.

Sub County Director of Education Mary Ngolengor stated that the tree planting initiative aims to enhance the learning environment in schools and consequently improve performance.