The Vice Chief of the Defence Forces (VCDF), Lieutenant General John Omenda, alongside Commander Kenya Navy Major General Paul Otieno, led a tree planting exercise in Maragoli Hills, Vihiga County, as part of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) Environmental Soldier Programme in commemoration of the International Day of Forests.
The engagement underscored KDF’s commitment to environmental security as a critical pillar of national resilience. It brought together national leaders, security agencies, and local communities in a coordinated effort to restore forest cover, enhance ecological sustainability, and strengthen civil-military cooperation.
In his remarks, Lt Gen Omenda emphasized that environmental conservation is increasingly integral to national security, noting that climate change poses evolving risks that demand proactive, multi-sectoral responses highlighting tree planting as a force multiplier in mitigating climate threats, safeguarding biodiversity, and supporting sustainable livelihoods, particularly in environmentally sensitive regions. He further noted that such initiatives reinforce trust and collaboration between the military and civilian populations.
In his remarks Major General Paul Otieno urged the local community to take ownership of the initiative by ensuring the survival and growth of the planted seedlings emphasizing that sustained community participation is essential in translating short-term activities into lasting environmental gains.
The exercise reaffirmed KDF’s continued support to government-led initiatives that promote environmental sustainability marking a significant step in building a climate-resilient and environmentally secure nation.
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