One Tree At A Time, Kenya’s Call To Eco-Conscious Travellers

Discover, Plant, And Preserve The Heart Of Kenya’s Nature

Kenya has officially launched a transformative initiative aimed at enhancing its tree cover through the “One Tourist, One Tree” campaign, which encourages every visitor to the country to plant a tree during their stay. This landmark initiative, introduced by the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife, underscores the nation’s commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental conservation.

PS for tourism John Ololtua samples the wonders of Kajulu Forest in Kisumu which is poised to become a focal point for eco-tourism in the western circuit.

During the campaign’s activation at Kajulu Hills Forest in Kisumu County, John Ololtua, the Tourism Principal Secretary, highlighted the urgency of sustainable practices in the face of global tourism growth. “Today marks a strong call to action for every visitor to our country to play a role in elevating Kenya’s status as a leading sustainable tourism destination,” he stated. With global tourist arrivals expected to reach 1.8 billion by 2030, Ololtua emphasized the importance of balancing tourism development with conservation efforts, noting that while tourism contributes 10% to Kenya’s GDP, it also accounts for about 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions.

The campaign is part of a broader national goal to increase Kenya’s tree cover to 30% by 2032, aiming to plant at least 15 billion trees in the coming years. This ambitious target reflects the country’s dedication to preserving its rich biodiversity, which is a significant draw for tourists. Farida Salim, Kisumu County’s CEC for Trade, Tourism Industry, and Marketing, expressed her enthusiasm for hosting the 2024 World Tourism Week in Kisumu, stating, “Kisumu is glad to host this year’s celebrations, as it serves as a focal point for eco-tourism in the Western Tourism Circuit.”

Tourism PS John Ololtua Plants a tree at Kajulu Forest County during the One Tourist One Tree activation in Kisumu which will rally travelers to actively participate in tree planting

The “One Tourist, One Tree” initiative also aims to empower local communities by supporting them in transitioning to clean energy solutions, thereby reducing reliance on charcoal and deforestation. This is crucial for fostering sustainable travel practices and community empowerment.

June Chepkemei, CEO of the Kenya Tourism Board (KTB), lauded the planting initiative, describing it as a vital step in marketing Kenya’s tourism product responsibly. “By integrating sustainability into our tourism strategy, we are not only attracting conscientious travellers but also safeguarding our natural assets for future generations to enjoy,” she remarked. This alignment with sustainable practices not only enhances Kenya’s global image but also enriches the experience of travellers who seek to engage in responsible tourism.

As we approach World Tourism Day on September 27, themed Tourism and Peace, the initiative reinforces the positive impact tourism can have in promoting environmental conservation and community welfare. Travellers visiting Kenya now have a unique opportunity to contribute to sustainability by planting a tree, helping to offset their carbon footprint while enjoying the breathtaking natural beauty of the region.

Join us in this noble cause and be part of Kenya’s journey toward a greener, more sustainable future. Your visit can make a lasting impact, not only for the environment but also for the communities that depend on these natural resources. Together, we can cultivate a thriving ecosystem that supports both tourism and conservation, ensuring that future generations can experience the splendour of Kenya’s landscapes and wildlife.