CS Duale Leads Kenyans in Marking 1st Mazingira Day with a Call to Action.

Today, Kenya marked its inaugural Mazingira Day with a strong call for citizens to take greater responsibility in protecting the environment.

Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale led the commemoration at the Nairobi Arboretum on Thursday, October 10, 2024, underscoring the importance of environmental conservation to secure a clean and healthy future for the nation.

During the event, CS Duale stressed the need for collective action in environmental clean-up efforts, urging Kenyans to actively contribute to keeping the country free from waste. Leading by example, he participated in a clean-up drive along the Nairobi River, alongside government officials and volunteers.

“Under the theme, ‘Our Environment, Our Health, Our Wealth,’ I urge all Kenyans to take responsibility for our surroundings by caring for the environment and avoiding littering. A clean and healthy environment is key to our well-being and prosperity, and together, we can preserve our natural resources for future generations,” CS Duale shared in a statement on his X account.

The CS called for clean-up efforts not only in homes but also on roads, in parks, beaches, and other public spaces that need attention.

Several senior government officials were in attendance, including National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Director General Mamo Mamo, Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko, and Gitonga Mugambi, the Principal Secretary for Parliamentary Affairs and Forestry. Also present was Aurelia Rono, Principal Secretary in the Office of the Prime Cabinet Secretary.

Mazingira Day, which falls on October 10, replaced Moi Day after being rebranded in 2023 to focus on environmental conservation. This public holiday now serves as a reminder for all Kenyans to prioritize environmental care, aligning with the government’s efforts to promote sustainable living.

Article By Suzy Nyongesa.