A major new partnership has ambitious plans to plant billions of trees across Kenya to improve the environment and address the impacts of climate change.

All Africa reports on an agreement between the Government of Kenya, the Kenya Red Cross Society and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). Together, the organizations will implement the Sustainable Environment and Restoration Programme (SERP).

The program is aimed at conserving, protecting and restoring river basins and catchment areas as well as increasing public understanding about climate change adaptation and mitigation. It will also encourage communities to become involved in agroforestry, particularly in arid and semi-arid areas.

The partnership will tap into the Red Cross’ network of volunteers to establish tree nurseries and mobilize communities to plant and nurture trees. The Kenya Red Cross Society has committed to planting 2.5 billion trees and shrubs by 2018 in addition to other environmental management initiatives.

Monitoring mechanisms are being put in place to ensure the survival of trees planted under the program, and additional project activities will develop climate information and early warning systems.

Read the full story: Kenya: Greening Kenya to Address Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change