This year, the TUM fraternity significantly expanded its tree planting initiative, successfully planting 9,000 trees with the involvement of over 300 participants on the 10th of May. The event was spearheaded by our esteemed Vice Chancellor, Professor Laila Abubakar, along with Deputy Vice Chancellor for Administration, Finance and Planning, Professor Joseph Rasowo, and Dr. Abdulkadir Banafa, the Director of TUM Kwale Campus.

We were joined by several key stakeholders, including Colobus Conservation, represented by their Director, Elias Kimaru, and Sammy Kimakwa, who generously donated 5,000 seedlings in addition to the 6000 seedlings donated by TUM. The Kenya Forestry Services were represented at the event, led by Milton Lumbasi Gogoni. Alongside them were representatives from Kenya Forestry Conservation, headed by Karisa Benzi. Participants also included members from Mkwambani Comprehensive School, Mabokoni Primary School, and TUMEL, as well as various community members. Additionally, members of the TUM Environmental Club actively took part in the event.

During the exercise, the Vice Chancellor highlighted the significance of tree planting as a method to combat climate change and leave behind a beautiful legacy that will endure beyond our lifetimes. The DVC AFP echoed the same sentiments and reinforced the message of stewardship and the responsibility we have to preserve our planet. The event was skillfully coordinated by Dr. Banafa, the director, at the Mabokoni site in Kwale. Participants gathered to plant indigenous trees, including fruit trees and Acacia among others, and engage in meaningful discussions about environmental conservation.

This gathering not only marked a significant advancement in climate advocacy but also reinforced the vital importance of unity among individuals and organizations dedicated to creating a sustainable future for our planet.