‘Plant Your Age’ Campaign Mobilises Kenyan Youth for Tree Planting

Nairobi, Kenya — 2025-09-13 11:30 EAT. The Green Africa Foundation has unveiled a grassroots climate initiative called ‘Plant Your Age’, urging young Kenyans to plant trees equal to their age as part of a nationwide effort to boost tree cover and tackle climate change.

The Latest

• Campaign concept: Youth are encouraged to plant a number of trees corresponding to their age, linking environmental action to personal milestones.

• Youth leadership: A 13-year-old climate champion supported by the foundation has already overseen the planting of 7,000+ trees across several counties.

• Integration with national goals: The initiative complements Kenya’s broader reforestation and climate adaptation programmes.

Context in Brief

• Kenya faces increasing droughts and erratic rainfall, especially in arid and semi-arid regions.

• National climate commitments call for expanding forest and tree cover to mitigate carbon emissions and restore degraded landscapes.

• Citizen-led initiatives like this one highlight how local actions can align with national and global environmental objectives.

Voices and Stakeholders

• Joyce Kithure, Climate Advocate: Called on Kenyans to embrace tree planting to reduce climate risks, saying “community-driven efforts are essential for environmental resilience.”

• Green Africa Foundation: Emphasised youth participation as critical for long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship.

• Environmental experts: Note Kenya needs millions of trees annually to meet climate targets, requiring partnerships between government, civil society, and citizens.

Implications

• Environmental: Increased tree cover can reduce soil erosion, enhance water security, and improve biodiversity.

• Social: Mobilising youth fosters climate awareness, civic responsibility, and green job opportunities.

• Policy: Grassroots projects support Kenya’s Vision 2030 goals and Paris Agreement commitments on climate adaptation.

What to Watch

• Adoption of the campaign in schools and universities.

• Partnerships with county governments for land allocation and seedling distribution.

• Tracking of tree survival rates to ensure long-term impact beyond planting.