Homa Bay: The Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) has embarked on mobilizing students to plant trees as part of the rollout of the competency-based curriculum (CBC). The KICD Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Charles Ongondo launched the tree planting exercise at Orero High School in Homa Bay in a bid to enhance forest cover in the country.

According to Kenya News Agency, the program is part of the government’s efforts to plant over 15 billion trees across the country by 2032. Ongondo highlighted that in Homa Bay County, the target was to plant at least 1,000 tree seedlings in selected primary and secondary schools. The program includes educating students on planting, adopting, and nurturing trees, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship among the youth.

The CEO was accompanied by Homa Bay Director of Education Eunice Khaemba and Homa Bay Forest Conservator Sharon Cheluget. Ongondo mentioned that they aim to plant at least 100,000 trees during the current rainy season through the program. He emphasized the practical nature of CBC programs, noting that nurturing learners’ skills in tree planting will help mitigate deforestation’s adverse effects.

Ongondo also encouraged students to plant trees at home during the upcoming holidays, with plans to plant 25,000 trees in 25 selected schools in Homa Bay. He expressed optimism that the initiative will enhance rainfall in the country, addressing climate change and improving food security.

Khaemba noted that the project will boost nutrition in schools by planting fruit trees, with 30 percent of the trees planted being fruit-bearing. She added that the trees will provide a conducive environment for lessons during hot seasons.

Homa Bay Forest Conservator Sharon Cheluget stated that the project aims to improve the region’s forest cover from the current 3.4 to the targeted 10 percent.