CS Debra Barasa Rallies Kenya Forest Service to Lead 15 Billion Tree Drive, Calls for Staff Promotions

By Bruno Aero 

Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Hon. Debra Barasa,

In her first official visit to the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) headquarters following a recent Cabinet reshuffle by President William Ruto, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Hon. Debra Barasa, reaffirmed the government's commitment to environmental stewardship and climate action.

Upon arrival at the KFS grounds, CS Barasa inspected a Quarter Guard mounted in her honor by KFS officers before participating in a symbolic tree-growing exercise within the Service's compound. This act underscored her personal dedication to the national tree-planting campaign and the broader climate agenda.

Addressing KFS staff, Dr. Barasa emphasized the critical role the agency must play in actualizing President Ruto’s ambitious plan to plant 15 billion trees by 2030. "As the lead agency in this campaign, the Kenya Forest Service must set the pace for the rest of the country," she stated.

She spent the better part of the day engaging with staff, urging them not only to commit to the campaign but also to champion it across the country. The Cabinet Secretary further called for a review of staff welfare, particularly focusing on the need to address promotions and career growth within the Service.

“This campaign is not just about trees; it is about restoring ecosystems, creating green jobs, and securing the future of our nation. And for that, we need a motivated and empowered workforce,” she said.

The visit marked a significant boost for morale within the Service and reinforced the Ministry’s strategic alignment with Kenya’s environmental and climate resilience goals.