BONYO: Chiefs in Climate Action - A Boost to Ecosystem Restoration

The role of Kenya’s National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) has evolved significantly over time. Under the Kenya Kwanza administration, NGAO has become central to the government’s operations, with the latest development placing chiefs at the forefront of climate action.

This past Monday marked a noteworthy milestone that resonated deeply with my own passion for environmental conservation: the launch of Chiefs’ Climate Action Day. This initiative underscores the importance of involving communities directly in tree planting efforts. Alongside friends and colleagues, I have long been involved in similar initiatives, and the formal dedication of a day for chiefs to lead in tree planting could not have come at a more crucial time.

During a speech in Kiambu County, Interior and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo announced that Chiefs' Climate Action Day will be observed on the first Friday of every month. On this day, more than 3,900 chiefs across Kenya will mobilize their communities to plant at least 250 trees within their respective locations. This ambitious effort directly supports Kenya’s goal to plant and nurture 15 billion trees by 2032.

Dr. Omollo also highlighted the initiative's role in addressing climate security challenges by fostering tailored early-warning systems and information networks. Chiefs, being closely integrated within their communities, are well-positioned to drive local engagement and ensure sustainability in this national effort.

However, for Chiefs’ Climate Action Day to yield lasting results, support and coordination from both levels of government and community buy-in are essential. Government bodies must provide resources, such as a reliable supply of seedlings that meet local ecological demands, and strategic guidance on suitable planting zones.

True success will depend on the active participation and ownership of local residents. Chiefs will need to go beyond planting to engage their communities in nurturing the trees. Collaborating with schools and other community institutions can encourage communities to exceed the 250-tree target, creating a larger impact.

Community members will also play a vital role in ensuring these trees thrive. Chiefs might consider appointing local “tree champions” within neighborhoods to assist with maintenance and foster community pride in the initiative.

Local NGOs, private organizations, and other institutions can also partner in these efforts, potentially transforming Chiefs’ Climate Action Day into a monthly tradition. Similar to Rwanda’s Umuganda cleanup day, this initiative could become a recurring event that brings people together, not through enforcement, but through shared commitment to Kenya’s environment.

Ramogi TV