The National Biosafety Authority (NBA) has rolled out a new biosafety tree garden program in learning institutions, aiming to promote environmental conservation, increase national tree cover, and foster practical knowledge among students.

Speaking during the launch in Busia County, NBA western region lead Dr Joseph Odongo explained that the concept is designed to be a living classroom.

“We want the learners to have that knowledge on how to care for the environment at the early stages so that they can grow to understand its importance,” Dr. Odongo stated.

“The current generation needs to have the knowledge and concept including the name of a tree and its importance to a certain environment.”

The unique aspect of the program is its emphasis on scientific and cultural learning. Dr Odongo noted.

“We are going to have all these species planted and taken care of, labelled with scientific and a common name and even a local importance of that tree according to the culture. We will also provide the scientific background including if the tree is for a medicinal purpose.”

The initiative involves multiple stakeholders, including the forestry department, teachers, and school administrations, to ensure continuity and proper monitoring, which is crucial for addressing issues of climate change.

The launch saw 5,000 trees distributed and planted across three schools in Busia County: Busende Primary and Junior Secondary School: 1,500 trees, Muyafwa Primary and Junior Secondary School: 2,000 trees, St Mary’s Mundika High School: 1,500 trees

The trees planted include a mix of indigenous and exotic, fruit, and medicinal species. Dr. Odongo urged many more schools to adopt this model to help nurture and care for the environment collectively.

County Officials and Educators Applaud Initiative

Busia Municipality Assistant County Commissioner Calvin Monare commended the drive, noting that such efforts are vital for the country to attain its ambitious target of 15 billion trees planted by 2032.

He further encouraged learners, teachers, and the public to engage in tree adaptation initiatives to raise the survival rate of the planted trees.

Seth Onyango, the Busia Sub-County Forester, highlighted the urgent need for such programs, stating that the county’s current tree cover stands at a low 8.3%.

“We are targeting to reach 30% by 2032 and this calls for more commitment and planting and maintaining of many trees,” Onyango stressed.

School principals expressed their enthusiasm for the new gardens. Alasa Keneth, the Principal of Muyafwa Secondary, said the trees will provide much-needed shade for learners, shelter for birds, and help attract rainfall.

Bernard Nyongesa, Principal of St Mary’s Mundika High School, added that the gardens will help students understand the different species available in the country, complementing the practical agricultural projects already undertaken by their students.