The Significance of the Private Sector in the National 15B Tree Growing Campaign

Kenya has embarked on an ambitious tree growing campaign that aims to grow and plant 15 billion trees across the country by 2032 and subsequently raise the national tree cover to 30%. While the government and its development partners are mainly leading the initiative, it is widely concurred that the private sector plays a pivotal role in ensuring the success of the campaign.

Kenyans including the private sector participate in tree planting at Corner Baridi, Kajiado County, during the launch of the National Programme for accelerated forestry and rangelands restoration on December 21, 2022

So how exactly can private sector contribute to the success of the National 15B Tree Growing Campaign?

First and foremost, the private can contribute to the campaign through financial support. Corporates can invest in tree planting initiatives, either through direct funding or by establishing partnerships with relevant governmental institutions, civil society organizations or with local communities. Indeed, this is a global trend and best practice borne out of the realization by companies of the importance of sustainable practices

Kenya Re Group MD, Hillary Wachinga, hands over a Sh1 million cheque donation to NETFUND CEO Samson Toniok for the rehabilitation of 400ha in Kaptagat forest, July 1st, 2023

In addition, businesses can deploy their expertise in advancing and deploying innovations to support the campaign. Such technological contributions include; development of apps to monitor tree growing, employing drones for aerial surveys, and using data analytics to optimize reforestation efforts. Through this role, corporates can enhance the much-needed efficiency and sustainability in the tree growing campaign.

Likewise, companies can contribute immensely by promoting environmental sustainability in their business practices, particularly in sourcing of raw materials. Businesses, for example, can commit to sourcing materials from sustainably managed forests, thereby reducing the pressure on natural ecosystems. Through such decisions, they can help ensure that the benefits of the 15B campaign extend beyond tree planting to encompass broader environmental sustainability, while at the same time enhancing their brand and corporate identity.

Further, the private sector can play a key role in promoting public awareness and community education mainly through their corporate social responsibility. Companies, particularly, in the media and communication space, can design and implement innovative public awareness campaigns around the programme enhance and fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility among communities and immensely contribute to the long-term success of the programme.

In conclusion, the place of the private sector in the success of Kenya’s ambitious 15B Tree Growing Campaign is far from being marginal. Through investment, innovation, and collaboration, businesses can significantly contribute to restoring Kenya’s ecosystems and ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come.