NCBA plants 10,000 trees in Nakuru county to mark world environmental day

NCBA has on Tuesday June 4, 2024 partnered with Baboon Project Kenya for a tree planting drive across Nakuru.

The initiative is part of NCBA’s commitment to environmental sustainability including combating climate change, enhance biodiversity, and restore natural landscapes in Kenya and in line with this year`s World Environment Day theme: Focusing on land restoration, desertification and drought resilience.

The Baboon Project Kenya is a conservation initiative that was established in 2021 in Nakuru Kenya and in collaboration with Kenya Forest Service.

The initiative in partnership for the Green School Program is designed to conserve the environment in line with the Climate Change Act,2016 (No. 11 of 2016), with particular emphasis on schools and communities around them.

The program focuses on tree planting to increase students’ awareness of the importance of trees and promote tree planting.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Baboon Project Kenya on this significant tree-planting initiative. I’m particularly inspired by the enthusiasm and participation of our young people. Their commitment to growing and nurturing these trees reflects a profound sense of responsibility and demonstrates the role they can play in protecting our planet. Through the planting of these 10,000 tree seedlings, we aim to make a tangible contribution to Kenya’s natural heritage and sow the seeds of a sustainable and resilient future for generations to come. We look forward to having this initiative across at least 50 schools in Nakuru County and thereafter to scale it up to other schools across the country” Said Mr. John Gachora, Group Managing Director, NCBA.

Tree Planting and growing campaign is among the 15 ambitious sustainability commitments NCBA pledged under it`s Change The Story platform to execute in collaboration with strategic partners, including the Government and the Private sector.

“We are honored to have made this strategic partnership with NCBA, with whom we share the commitment to conserve the environment by planting trees. Tree planting is not just about adding greenery to our landscapes, it’s about sowing the seeds of hope for future generations. Each tree we plant today stands as a testament to our commitment to environmental stewardship, a promise to nurture and protect our planet.” Said Simon Gichohi Founder, Baboon Project Kenya

Through strategic partnerships and community engagement, NCBA has committed to grow 10 million trees by 2030.
The Bank also aims to foster a culture of conservation and environmental responsibility that will benefit future generations.

Other partners present at the tree planting activities were Kenya Forest Service, Ushiriki Wema Foundation, WWF Kenya, Boreka Group and Ahadi Kenya.

“I truly commend Baboon Project Kenya for their efforts in conservancy and community involvement in environment protection. This grassroots education is vital in creating a generation that values and actively participates in preserving our natural resources. Your commitment to this cause is truly inspiring and essential for fostering a sustainable future.” Said Dr. Stanley Kamau, Executive Director Ahadi Kenya Trust.

During the tree planting event, NCBA Bank CEO Mr. John Gachora and Ahadi Trust CEO, Dr. Stanley Kamau pledged to upgrade the school’s kitchen and classrooms to improve the learning experience for the students.

By Ann Nyambura