Maasai Mara University took a leading role in commemorating International Forest Day in Narok County through a successful tree-planting and environmental awareness event held at Empaash Comprehensive School. The initiative brought together a wide range of stakeholders committed to environmental conservation, including the Kenya Defence Forces, Kenya Forest Service, Kenya Medical Training College (Narok Campus), the National Administration, community members, and learners from ten neighboring schools.

As part of its commitment to sustainability, Maasai Mara University donated 4,000 tree seedlings to Empaash Comprehensive School. This effort was complemented by an additional 1,000 seedlings provided by the Kenya Forest Service, which were distributed among the school and surrounding community members to promote widespread tree planting.

Speaking on behalf of the University, the Deputy Registrar for Research, Innovation, and Community Outreach, Dr. Galfen Omuse, emphasized the institution’s strong commitment to environmental conservation. He highlighted the University’s strategy of adopting schools as hubs for environmental stewardship ,an initiative championed by the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Penninah Aloo Obudho. As part of this program, Maasai Mara University will adopt Empaash Comprehensive School for six months to monitor and support the growth and protection of the planted trees.

Mr. Omuse further announced plans by the University to provide water tanks for rainwater harvesting, aimed at supporting irrigation and ensuring the survival of the seedlings. This initiative aligns with the University’s green cover agenda, contributing to the national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.

Representing the Kenya Forest Service, the County Conservator, Mr. Patrick Wasike Simiyu, underscored the importance of environmental conservation through tree planting and nurturing trees to maturity, while also highlighting the economic benefits communities can derive from well-managed tree resources.

The Chief Guest, Deputy County Commissioner Mr. Musa Salat, cautioned against environmental destruction, particularly indiscriminate tree cutting, and reaffirmed the National Administration’s commitment to supporting Empaash Comprehensive School in protecting the newly planted trees.

In his remarks, the Headteacher of Empaash Comprehensive School, Mr. Silas Tunai, expressed gratitude to Maasai Mara University and all participating stakeholders for selecting the institution as the host of the event, assuring them of the school’s dedication to nurturing the trees and promoting environmental conservation.

The Kenya Defence Forces delegation was led by Captain Abdinasir Ahmed, while the Kenya Medical Training College (Narok Campus) team was led by Mr. Geofrey Chalulot.