BY RITA MUTHONI
Youth in Embu County are set to lead a major environmental restoration project targeting 100 hectares of degraded land in the region’s semi-arid areas.
The initiative, dubbed the Green Rising Project, was officially launched late last week by environmental stakeholders, bringing together government agencies, NGOs, and community groups.
The initiative aims to promote tree planting, agroforestry, and the rehabilitation of riparian zones in Mbeere North, Mbeere South, and Mwea sub-counties.
Funded by UNICEF through the Kenya Scouts Association, and supported by the Rainforest Alliance and the Embu County Government, the four-month project will be implemented by the Mount Kenya Landscape Management Board (MKLMB).
“This initiative aligns with our strategy to rehabilitate the Mount Kenya landscape through the planting of 5.8 million trees. We’re targeting neglected, climate-affected areas to build resilience and promote sustainability,” said MKLMB Chairperson Wifenzio Njeru at the launch meeting in Embu.
The program plans to expand its reach by having the initial 100 youth mobilize an additional 1,000 volunteers for the restoration effort.
Njeru emphasized that youth involvement is vital for long-term environmental stewardship.
Vera Murugi Njiru, the MKLMB Secretary and youth representative, urged local youth to organize into environmental groups to access funding and supply seedlings for the project — turning conservation into an income-generating activity.
Rainforest Alliance representative Diida Karayu Wario called on young people to act swiftly. “We want as many trees as possible planted before the rainy season ends,” he said.
County Youth Empowerment Director Rehema Ibrahim praised the initiative for offering both ecological and economic benefits. “It’s not just about planting trees. It’s about creating hope, jobs, and climate-smart leaders,” she said.
Kenya Forest Service officer Miriam Kamau pledged technical support, noting that the project supports the national goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032.
Youth attending the event welcomed the opportunity. “We’re proud to be part of the solution. Let’s green our land and secure our future,” said Nonnie Kariuki, the founder of Green Age Warriors.
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