Igembe: The National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) has spearheaded a tree planting and dignity kit distribution exercise at Ntherone and Kianda Primary Schools in Igembe South Sub-County. The initiative saw the planting of 520 trees, including a mix of indigenous trees such as Grevillea, Meru Oak, and Moringa, along with fruit trees like orange, mango, Hass Avocado, and macadamia.

According to Kenya News Agency, the event was part of the national Government's effort to combat climate change and environmental degradation via the Government of Kenya's 15 billion trees campaign. Addressing the teachers and pupils, the sub-county NDMA Assistant Director Lolokote Sainyugu emphasized that the exercise extends beyond planting trees, aiming to impart a culture of environmental responsibility.

'Trees do more than provide shade. They purify the air, stabilize soils, conserve water, provide habitats for biodiversity, beautify our surroundings, and most importantly, produce food and enhance the economy,' he said. Lolokote added that in drought-prone areas, food-producing trees like avocado, orange, macadamia, and mango not only strengthen food security but also offer families new sources of income. 'We cannot rely solely on miraa as a cash crop while sidelining food crops,' he noted.

The Assistant Director highlighted that by embracing agroforestry and income diversification, 'We're not just greening the environment; we're feeding families, improving livelihoods, and building resilience to drought.' He called upon schools to take ownership of the trees planted, ensuring they are protected and nurtured until full maturity as a long-term investment for both people and the environment.

The event also featured the distribution of dignity kits (sanitary towels) to schoolgirls, aiming to promote menstrual hygiene and reduce absenteeism among girls. Both educators and students welcomed this initiative, saying it would empower young girls to attend school with confidence and dignity.

The area Education officer Mungai and the area chief James Kiburi, who also attended the event, echoed the call for environmental care, commending NDMA for their approach to addressing both ecological and social needs.