A powerful community conservation movement in Kajiado West is gaining momentum as bodaboda riders under the Kaiti Green Champions banner intensify efforts to reverse years of environmental degradation. The group is implementing an ambitious mission to plant 5 million trees by 2030, a long-term plan aimed at restoring lost forest cover and strengthening the fight against climate change.
Since its establishment in 2016, the organisation has planted more than 600,000 trees, a milestone its Vice Chair Gloria Kioko says reflects the dedication of local youth working across seasons to rehabilitate the environment. Their annual target stands at 250,000 trees, a pace designed to steadily build toward the decade-end goal while ensuring planted seedlings are nurtured to maturity.
Local administrators have acknowledged the significant ecological impact of the campaign. Kumpa Assistant Chief Benson Kipamet noted that the area had suffered large-scale deforestation in earlier years, leaving landscapes bare and vulnerable. He said the ongoing restoration efforts by Kaiti Green Champions are helping the community reclaim lost forest cover and revive natural habitats.
ALSO READ:
Murkomen Appoints Michael Yator as New Kajiado County Commissioner
His sentiments were echoed by Osuani Assistant Chief Maureen Maya, who appealed to residents to stop unnecessary tree cutting. She emphasised that trees provide shelter and food for wildlife and play a central role in stabilising climatic conditions. Maya added that combating prolonged drought begins with protecting existing forests and supporting reforestation efforts since trees naturally attract rainfall and preserve the environment.
As the group continues to plant and protect thousands of seedlings each season, the Kaiti Green Champions hope to rally more partners, residents and institutions to join the movement. Their vision is to transform Kajiado West into a model of community-led environmental restoration—one tree, one season and one village at a time.
By Benedict Aoya
