MMUST Joins Forces With Regional Partners in Planting 12,500 Trees, to Advance Its Vision for Green Revolution
In an effort to advance its vision for a ‘green revolution’, Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST) joined forces with partners from the region and planted 12,500 trees. The tree planting event, which was organized by the Coordinator MMUST Greening Initiative-Dr. Edward Mugalavai, aimed to continue environmental stewardship efforts, restoring the Kakamega forest ecosystem and raising awareness about conservation. The exercise took place on 19th June, 2025 near Lianungu village in Kakamega County and was attended by a number of stakeholders including the County Government of Kakamega, National Research Fund (NRF), Equity Bank, Standard Chartered Bank, Shell plc-Kakamega Service Station, Golf Hotel, and an environmental group- Next Gen for Earth. The event was graced by Prof. Edwin Wamukoya, who was representing the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Solomon Shibairo.
Students share a moment at the event.
Speaking during the event, Prof. Wamukoya underscored MMUST’s dedication to sustainable practices. He described the tree planting initiative as ‘a powerful act of hope and responsibility’, noting that the 12,500 seedlings symbolized more than just trees as they represented life, resilience, and a sustainable future.
“Our role as a University extends beyond research and education to active participation in environmental conservation and climate action. Together, we are showing that when academia, government, the private sector, and the community come together, great things happen. As we plant these seedlings, may we be reminded that the greatest legacy we can leave for future generations is a healthy planet,” stated Prof. Wamukoya. Additionally, he extended the University’s gratitude to key partners for their support in protecting the Kakamega Tropical Rainforest, which is rich in biodiversity, cultural heritage, and ecological significance.
Prof. Edwin Wamukoya planting a tree.
Building on the spirit of collaboration, the Registrar for Planning, Research, and Innovation-Dr. Collins Matemba, issued a call for continued support from partners to further reforestation efforts. He specifically highlighted the 100-acre parcel of land at Mt. Elgon, which was allocated to the University by the National Government as a key area for these initiatives. Dr. Matemba also stressed the significant role of students and researchers in such projects, saying that their involvement contributes to a stronger culture of environmental responsibility and innovation within the University. “We are developing a long-term strategy which will link our academic programs with environmental restoration goals. This will help us ensure that every tree planted contributes to research, education, and community empowerment,” he noted.
The Registrar for Planning, Research, and Innovation-Dr. Collins Matemba addressing the participants.
Dr. Edward Mugalavai thanked all partners for their contributions towards environmental management and conservation, noting their crucial role in mitigating climate change effects. He emphasized the importance of nurturing these partnerships for long-term environmental sustainability.
The National Research Fund (NRF) Planning and Compliance Officer, Ms. Eunice Saru, commended MMUST for its growing collaboration with NRF as well as its impactful research projects, specifically mentioning Tungiasis and cassava research. She lauded the University’s recent Gold GFGP (Good Financial Grant Practice) accreditation, and encouraged researchers to embrace the Theory of Change model, stressing that research should lead to tangible as well as lasting community impact.
Participants keenly follow the address after the tree planting exercise.
Certainly, this event marks one of the many ongoing efforts by MMUST, following the official launch of its tree planting initiative in Kakamega Forest on 3rd June 2024. Such efforts underscore the University’s dedication to environmental sustainability and its support for the National Agenda on Climate Change.
Story by Joy Agnes
Photos by Ronny Obuolo and David Paul Mwongela
