NETFUND Ag. CEO Samson Toniok on March 22, 2019 joined the Cabinet Secretary in the Ministry of Environment and Forestry Keriako Tobiko and the Governor of Vihiga County H.E. Dr Wilber K. Ottichilo to celebrate the World Meteorological Day (WMD) in Esibila Primary School in Vihiga County.

planting trees and visiting environmental innovative exhibitions aimed at addressing environmental challenges at the Esibila primary school, Vihiga County to mark the World Meteorological day 2019.

The World Meteorological Day (WMD) is an annual event that is celebrated every year on 23^rd March to commemorate the establishment of the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) in 1950. WMO keepS constant watch on the weather and climate for the safety and well-being of society.

During the WMD, the essential contribution of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to the safety and wellbeing of society is demonstrated, through tree planting and other activities.

Under the theme “The Sun, The Earth and The Weather”, this year’s celebrations focused on the climate knowledge built in the last decade and ways of addressing climate change and climate variability. The theme called attention to the growing hazards such as tropical cyclones, storm surges, heavy rains, heatwaves, and droughts that are threatening global populations. Kenya’s celebrations were spearheaded by the Kenya Meteorological Department, in collaboration with all the Semi-Autonomous Government Agencies (SAGA’s) under the Ministry of Environment and Forestry.

The Celebrations took place at Ranet Climate Resource center at Esibila Primary School, in Luanda, Vihiga County. Speaking during the celebrations, Mr. Tobiko who was the Chief Guest, said that the Ministry had embarked on a campaign to restore 10% tree cover by the year 2022 and that the tree planting activities was informed by the forecast provided by the Kenya Meteorological Department. Tobiko also commended and encouraged climate scientists to conduct more research aimed at improving early warning systems and mitigation measures for disasters, for the safety of the people and protection of their property.