The National Assembly on Thursday, November 17, approved a motion to have the government make changes to road designs in a bid to accommodate tree planting.
In the motion tabled by Dagoretti South John Kiarie, new roads to be constructed will incorporate spaces for tree planting exercises.
Upon implementation, trees will be planted along newly constructed roads with the aim of combating climate change.
Additionally, contractors will also be obligated to compensate for trees that are ruined during the construction exercise.
"This House resolves that the government includes a component of tree planting in all road network designs and also makes it compulsory for road contractors to replace any tree harvested during road construction upon completion of the project," read the motion in part.
Kiarie explained that the move was necessary given the number of trees that had been destroyed during the construction of roads across the country.
He added that the move would enable Kenyans to enjoy quality of life and fresh air as they travel.
"The road network in the country currently stands at approximately 177,800 kilometres with a development rate of 600km per annum.
"Studies have shown that the benefits accumulated from roadside tree planting include better soil formation due to shedding of dead leaves, increased water quality by reducing sediment flow, reduced erosion, road beautification and flood control," he stated.
The proposals by Kiarie are cognisant with the new administration policy on tree planting as President William Ruto aims to plant 5 billion trees in the next five years.
Notably, the Kazi Mtaani programme was changed to have the youth engaged in tree-planting exercises in the country.
“Kazi Mtaani is now outdated. Collecting garbage is not going to be the case anymore. Houses will now be our business and the youths will get jobs,” he stated.
