The Principal Secretary for Medical Services, Dr. Ouma Oluga, led a transformative tree-planting exercise at Okela Primary School in Siaya County as part of the national Mazingira Day 2025 celebrations. The initiative marked a vital step in the Government of Kenya’s National Tree Growing and Restoration Campaign, which aims to plant 15 billion trees by 2032 to achieve a 30 percent national tree cover.
The event attracted participation from officials of the Ministry of Health, local leaders, teachers, students, and community members from Okela and surrounding areas, showcasing a strong sense of unity and national responsibility towards environmental protection and public health.
In his remarks, Dr. Oluga emphasized the deep interconnection between environmental health and human well-being. He explained that a cleaner and greener environment significantly reduces diseases caused by pollution, poor sanitation, and the effects of climate change. According to him, tree planting is more than just an act of environmental restoration — it is a long-term investment in the health and prosperity of the nation.
“Tree growing is not just an environmental act — it’s an investment in the health and well-being of our people. Each tree we plant today brings us closer to a healthier, more resilient nation,” Dr. Oluga noted.
Participants planted a variety of fruit trees within the school compound, symbolizing collective action toward better nutrition, environmental restoration, and resilience against the adverse impacts of climate change. Dr. Oluga encouraged schools to incorporate environmental education into their curriculums, noting that nurturing young learners to appreciate and protect nature is essential for sustaining Kenya’s green future.
He also urged local residents to register with the Social Health Authority (SHA) to ensure access to affordable, people-centred healthcare services. This dual focus on environmental sustainability and public health underscores the government’s holistic approach to improving the quality of life for all Kenyans.
Local and county leaders joined the exercise, reaffirming their commitment to promoting environmental conservation, enhancing public health, and advancing sustainable development. The Mazingira Day celebrations in Siaya not only strengthened community bonds but also demonstrated Kenya’s dedication to achieving a balance between human health and environmental stewardship — paving the way for a cleaner, greener, and healthier future for generations to come.
