The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has announced the launch of the African Champion of Trees (ACT) Awards, a new initiative under the Mazingira Day celebrations aimed at recognising Kenyans who have made outstanding contributions to tree planting and environmental conservation.
The awards come with a grand prize of Ksh5 million, which the overall winner can use to support a tree planting initiative of their choice. The program, launched in partnership with a local company, features eight major categories that will produce 34 winners, with one ultimate “Champion of Trees” to be crowned.
Speaking on TV47 on Thursday, KFS Senior Deputy Conservator of Forests Clement Ng’oriareng’ said the initiative aligns with the government’s goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032. He urged Kenyans from all walks of life to participate by submitting their entries before October 31, 2024 via the official ACT Awards website.
“We are going to reward anyone who has done exemplary work in planting trees from wherever they are,” said Ng’oriareng’.
The award categories include Individual, Group and Community, Corporate, NGO, Government Ministry, State Corporation and County Government, Special, Lifetime Achievement, and ACT Special Catalyst.
Sub-categories recognise efforts such as the Most Trees Grown by an Individual, Best School Tree Growing Program, Best Corporate Sustainability Initiative, and Forester of the Year. There will also be posthumous honours and awards for journalists and media houses promoting tree planting awareness.
Tree planting activities carried out between January 1 and December 31, 2024, will be considered for the awards. The award ceremony is scheduled for Friday, October 24, 2025, celebrating Kenya’s commitment to restoring its forests and combating climate change.
