The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has unveiled the African Champions of Trees (ACT) Awards, a new initiative aimed at recognizing individuals, communities, and organizations championing tree growing and forest conservation efforts across the country.
Speaking during the launch at the KFS headquarters in Karura, Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko, EBS, NDC (K), said the awards will not only celebrate achievements but also help document and share best practices in environmental stewardship.
“The ACT Awards are not just a celebration of tree growing. They are a powerful tool to foster environmental leadership, restore ecosystems and build climate-resilient communities,” said Mr. Lemarkoko.
The awards, a partnership between KFS and Blue Focus Africa Ltd, will run annually until 2032 and align with the government’s ambitious target of attaining 30 percent tree cover through the planting of 15 billion trees nationwide. The inaugural awards will honor initiatives carried out in 2024.
Mr. Lemarkoko emphasized that forests remain central to Kenya’s socio-economic well-being.
“Our current forest cover stands at 8.83 percent and tree cover at 12.13 percent. Forests contribute 3.6 percent to our GDP, employ hundreds of thousands directly and indirectly, and provide over 80 percent of the national energy supply through fuelwood,” he noted.
Through partnerships with communities, corporate organizations, and government agencies, KFS has already grown 846 million trees and fruit trees across the country, supported by more than 300 nurseries.
The Chief Conservator highlighted the broader impact of the initiative:
“By rallying the public to grow trees, the ACT Awards will contribute to national and global goals including Vision 2030, the Bottom-Up Transformation Agenda, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals,” he said.
Corporate sponsors including Tek Productions Ltd., Sense of Africa Limited, and the Royal Media Services Group have already joined the campaign, with more stakeholders urged to come on board.
Entries for the awards can be submitted via the official website www.actawards.org, and the first awards ceremony is scheduled for October 2025.
Mr. Lemarkoko concluded with a call to action:
“I invite all eligible entities to participate in the ACT Awards. Together, we can transform our landscapes, restore biodiversity, and secure a greener future for generations to come.”
