Kenyans in Tanzania honour Wangari Maathai with tree planting ceremony

Dar es Salaam. Hundreds of Kenyans residing in Tanzania (the Kenyan diaspora) joined environmental stakeholders, investors and visitors from neighbouring countries on Saturday, March 16, 2024, to plant trees in the Kisarawe Forest.

This event commemorated the legacy of the late Nobel laureate and environmental activist, Prof Wangari Maathai.

The tree planting served a dual purpose: honouring Prof Maathai's memory and highlighting the critical need for environmental conservation in the face of climate change. 

The Kenyan High Commissioner to Tanzania, Mr Isaac Njenga, emphasised the shared responsibility of protecting the planet for future generations.

He pointed out the symbolic value of holding the event on Africa Environment Day, signifying a continent-wide commitment to sustainability.

"Today's initiative not only honours the memory of Prof Maathai but also serves as an emotional reminder of our duty to protect and preserve our natural heritage. By commemorating Wangari Maathai’s Day alongside Africa Environment Day, we reaffirm our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development across the continent," he remarked.

Mr Njenga highlighted the pivotal role of collective action in addressing the mounting environmental challenges confronting Africa.

"The threats posed by climate change and biodiversity loss demand urgent and concerted efforts from all sectors of society. It is incumbent upon us to work collaboratively to effect meaningful change before it's too late," he urged.

Reflecting on Kenya's proactive stance towards environmental sustainability, Mr Njenga underscored the nation's ambitious tree-planting initiatives and expressed a desire to extend these efforts beyond national borders.

"Kenya remains steadfast in its commitment to global sustainability. We aspire to not only plant trees here in Tanzania but also nurture them to maturity, inspiring others to join us in safeguarding our precious planet," he affirmed.

The choice of Kisarawe Forest as the site for this tree-planting endeavour holds profound significance. Nestled 12 kilometres southwest of Dar es Salaam, this forest boasts rich biodiversity, encompassing various plant and animal species.

The Director General of the National Environment Management Council (NEMC), Dr Immaculate Semesi, lauded the decision to plant trees in Kisarawe Forest, citing its pivotal role in environmental conservation.

"We commend the Kenyan diaspora and their government for their proactive stance in protecting our environment. By investing in initiatives like this, we can preserve our natural ecosystems and sustain biodiversity for future generations," she remarked.

Among the Kenyan diaspora participants was Mr Jimmy Maina, a businessperson at the bustling Kariakoo market. The businessman stressed the interconnectedness between environmental preservation and economic prosperity.

"As businesspeople operating in Tanzania, we understand that our livelihoods are intricately linked to the health of our environment. Climate change poses a significant threat to our businesses, making it imperative for us to actively engage in conservation efforts," he asserted.

The tree-planting ceremony in Kisarawe Forest served as a testament to the enduring legacy of Wangari Maathai and the collective resolve of the Kenyan diaspora to champion environmental conservation.