Kenya has officially marked the celebration of Mazingira Day for the first time, highlighting the country’s shift toward environmental preservation.
This new public holiday, previously called Utamaduni Day, was renamed following the signing of the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill by President William Ruto.
The change reflects a national emphasis on environmental conservation.
In line with this commitment, Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale revealed that Kenyans have already planted 481 million trees since January 2024, as part of the government’s ambitious target to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. The initiative aims to reduce long-term greenhouse gas emissions, addressing the climate change crisis.
Duale also reaffirmed the government’s promise to clean up the Nairobi River within 18 months, and announced plans to implement a color-coded waste system to separate recyclable and non-recyclable waste.
The origins of the holiday trace back to its earlier form as Moi Day, which was established to honor former President Daniel Arap Moi, who led Kenya from 1978 to 2002.
Moi envisioned the day as one for community service and compassion, focusing on acts of kindness and volunteerism.
President Ruto has urged every Kenyan to plant at least 100 trees, emphasizing that this collective effort is essential to reversing the impacts of climate change, ensuring water availability, and boosting agricultural productivity.