The Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) Community led by our Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Romanus Odhiambo, planted over 3,000 trees at the University’s main campus in Meru County on Monday, 8^th April, 2024.

This event was bolstered by a generous donation of 1,000 trees from Solution SACCO. Prof. Romanus Odhiambo, expressing his gratitude for the donation, emphasized MUST’s commitment not only to planting trees but also to nurturing them to maturity. With an impressive 76 acres of trees already thriving across the University’s 540-acre campus, MUST surpasses the national forest cover requirement of 10%, standing at an admirable 14%.

“We are here today because it is our duty to lead an environmentally-mindful lifestyle. Trees solve critical global challenges; the world is in danger without trees. Deforestation, degradation of forests, desertification as well as global warming are some of the major threats to sustainable development that continue to negatively affect the lives and livelihoods of millions of people.  Planted tree seedlings should be well protected and nurtured, so that they can contribute to increasing our national forest cover, enhance environmental sustainability and improve the livelihoods of the community and all Kenyans.  At MUST, we take great interest in our environment through awareness creation, extension services and training, and involving the University community in tree planting exercises.  We have also made it a tradition that whenever we have guests visiting the University, we encourage them to plant trees here at the University. The success rate of our planted trees exceeds 95%, ensuring that we effectively restore and maintain our natural forest cover. We have come together from our diverse backgrounds unified by the decision to do good by our society as we look forward to a greener and healthier environment. Our University is beautiful because of the initiative that our founding Chancellor, Dr. James Mwangi, started ten years ago, graciously donating his resources to green our University by launching the Chancellor’s forest.  Today is bigger than us. These trees will serve generations to come. I thank all of you for choosing to plant a tree and save the environment.” Prof. Romanus Odhiambo.

The CEO of Solution SACCO, Mr. Daniel Marete, echoed these sentiments, commending Meru University of Science and Technology for its dedication to environmental stewardship. “The transformative impact of MUST’s initiatives on the environment is commendable. In further support of this noble cause, Solution SACCO pledges to establish a tree nursery, providing seedlings for both the University and the surrounding community.”

The Chairman of Solution SACCO, Mr. Francis Rimberia, Directors, and Staff of Solution SACCO also took part in the tree planting event. Their active involvement underscores the collaborative spirit and shared commitment to environmental sustainability.

At the tree planting event, participants took a significant step towards environmental sustainability by incorporating organic manure derived from innovative waste management techniques. Spearheaded by the Sanitation Research Institute (SRI) at MUST, led by the Director, Dr. Joy Riungu, this initiative demonstrates the University’s commitment to holistic solutions addressing both environmental and societal challenges. SRI’s groundbreaking project utilizing non-sewer technology, particularly the utilization of the Black Soldier Fly, showcases the full value chain from waste reclamation to its transformation into valuable agricultural inputs. By harnessing the nutrient-rich organic manure produced through this process, participants not only nurtured the trees being planted but also contributed to the broader goal of sustainable agriculture. This integration of eco-friendly practices highlights the importance of innovation and collaboration in fostering a greener, more resilient future for all.

In December 2022, His Excellency Hon. William Samoei Ruto, PhD., C.G.H. President of the Republic of Kenya launched the national tree planting initiative setting the stage for collaborative efforts across the country to preserve and replenish Kenya’s natural resources. The initiative seeks to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, a monumental undertaking that requires collective action and unwavering commitment.

As communities, institutions, and individuals unite in the common goal of environmental preservation, each tree planted serves as a symbol of hope for a brighter, greener tomorrow. Meru University of Science and Technology stands at the forefront of this noble endeavor, inspiring others to join hands in safeguarding our planet for generations to come.