(Embu) – A new environmental initiative aimed at restoring degraded land in the arid Mbeere North, Mbeere South, and Mwea sub-counties of Embu County has been launched by the Rainforest Alliance, with support from UNICEF Kenya. The project will cover more than 100 hectares of land, using tree planting as a key strategy to combat the effects of climate change.
The project, known as the Green Rising Project, is designed to involve local youth in conservation efforts while also creating employment opportunities. The initiative is being led by the Mount Kenya Sustainable Landscape and Livelihoods Program (MSuLLi), in partnership with the Embu County Government, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and the Kenya Scout Movement.
Speaking during a stakeholder meeting held in Embu Town, MSuLLi Team Manager Dida Wario said the tree-planting exercise is scheduled to be completed within four months. He emphasized the importance of capitalizing on the ongoing long rainy season to ensure a high survival rate for the tree seedlings.
“We want to take advantage of the ongoing long rains to make sure the seedlings will survive when the season ends,” Wario said.
Vera Murugi, the MSuLLi Secretary for the Embu Chapter, stated that the program plans to engage at least 1,000 young people in the coming days. She encouraged youths to form or join welfare groups, as funding is directed to organized and registered groups rather than individuals.
“Even the tree seedlings we will be planting will be sourced from nurseries run by organized groups of young people to empower them economically,” she said.
The project aims not only to green arid areas but also to create a sustainable source of income for young people involved in environmental work. By engaging local nurseries and youth groups, the initiative is expected to stimulate small-scale economic activity while also addressing environmental concerns.
Miriam Kamau, the County Conservator for the Kenya Forest Service in Embu, pointed out that Mbeere region presents significant potential for afforestation due to its expansive dryland. She added that KFS personnel are on standby to guide youth groups in selecting suitable tree species based on the ecological needs of different zones.
“The area holds the greatest potential for tree planting in the county, and we have the capacity to support species selection that fits the local environment,” she said.
The project also received support from notable figures including Muthoni Kariuki, former Miss Tourism Africa, who praised the campaign and encouraged young people to actively participate in creating a greener future.
“I urge the youth to be part of the solution. This is our planet, and we must do everything we can to protect it,” Kariuki said.
While the initiative does not mention the total budget, such youth-driven projects typically involve costs related to labor, seedlings, training, and equipment. With support from UNICEF Kenya, local currency disbursements are expected to flow through community groups. At the time of writing, 1 Kenyan Shilling equals approximately 0.0077 US Dollars.