In an era where climate change poses an existential threat to humanity, environmental sustainability has ceased to be a mere choice, it has become a collective responsibility. As a premier institution of higher learning, Kisii University has not only embraced this responsibility but has placed itself at the very forefront of Kenya’s national greening agenda.
Tree Propagation
Kisii University has made significant strides in tree propagation. To support the national agenda of increasing forest cover, the university in the financial year 2025/2026 committed to propagate 260,000 tree seedlings. This output is made possible by the establishment of a state-of-the-art Tree Nursery at Nyosia Farm. The nursery serves as the engine room of the University’s green strategy, producing high-quality seedlings that are scientifically propagated and hardened for survival. From indigenous hardwoods, fruit trees to fast-growing agro-forestry species, the Nyosia Farm nursery ensures a steady supply of robust seedlings ready for transplantation.
Propagation of Tree seedlings in Nyosia farm
Tree Planting
Beyond propagation, Kisii University has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to putting seedlings into the ground. During this financial year 2025/2026 the University has planted 89,800 tree seedlings. Among these, a significant proportion are indigenous tree species, which enhance biodiversity, restore native ecosystems, and provide long-term ecological resilience. Additionally, the University has deliberately integrated fruit tree seedlings such as passion, avocado, and guava into its planting initiatives to directly support food security for local communities and the University population. This dual approach not only combats climate change but also provides nutritional and economic benefits to households and institutions involved in the planting exercises. With a target of planting over 130,000 trees annually, the University continues to make steady progress toward a greener and more food-secure future.
Partnerships in Tree Planting
Kisii University understands that a sustainable future cannot be built in isolation. Recognizing that environmental stewardship thrives on collective action, the university has deliberately taken its green mission beyond the lecture halls and fence lines. The institution actively engages in tree planting exercises in partnership with banks, churches, schools, and the wider community. These partnerships serve a dual purpose: they increase the region’s forest cover and simultaneously educate the next generation on the importance of environmental conservation. Kisii University together with Equity Bank planted 30,800 tree seedlings in the following schools; Riamagige Comprehensive School, Itierio Comprehensive School, Riamaoncha Comprehensive School, Nyabiosi Comprehensive School, Nyansira Comprehensive School, Nyangeni Comprehensive School and Nderema Comprehensive School.
Additionally, the Safaricom Foundation donated 500 grafted avocado seedlings and 4,500 fodder tree seedlings, which were planted at the University farm to enhance food security, nutrition, and livestock feed sustainability.
Tree planting at Riamagige Comprehensive School
Tree planting at Riamaoncha Comprehensive school
school
Tree planting at Itierio Comprehensive School
Tree planting at Nyabiosi Comprehensive School
Acknowledgment of Partners
Kisii University gratefully acknowledges the generous support rendered by its partners in this noble cause. Special appreciation goes to Equity Bank and Safaricom Foundation which have supported the university through the donation of thousands of tree seedlings and subsequent engagement in joint tree planting activities. This powerful synergy between academia and the private sector has yielded visible results, turning previously bare landscapes into flourishing green belts. Such collaborations demonstrate that meaningful environmental action is possible when institutions unite for a common purpose.
Tree planting with equity bank at Riamaoncha Comprehensive School
Let us remember that the tree we plant today is a lecture we give to the future. Kisii University is proud to be a green arrow on Kenya’s compass, pointing toward a sustainable, resilient, and prosperous tomorrow.
Join us. Plant a tree. Secure the future.