High Commission of India in Nairobi unveils large-scale tree planting campaign at Amboseli on June 5, 2026/HANDOUTThe High Commission of India in Nairobi has inaugurated a large-scale tree planting campaign aimed at restoring and conserving the Amboseli ecosystem, with plans to plant over 500,000 indigenous trees over the next five years.
The initiative, unveiled on World Environment Day 2026, is being implemented in partnership with the Drylake Ngelesa Conservancy in Amboseli.
It forms part of India’s global environmental drive under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam (Plant for Mother)” campaign.
The programme is part of an environmental initiative launched by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which encourages individuals and institutions to plant trees in honour of their mothers while promoting environmental stewardship and climate responsibility.
Since its introduction in 2024, the campaign has reportedly grown into one of the world’s largest people-led reforestation movements, with billions of saplings planted globally.
Speaking during the launch event, High Commissioner of India to Kenya Dr Adarsh Swaika said the initiative reflects India’s commitment to environmental protection and global climate action through community-driven solutions.
He noted that the Amboseli ecosystem remains one of Kenya’s most important wildlife landscapes, hosting diverse biodiversity and supporting both conservation and community livelihoods.
The tree planting programme is expected to contribute to ecosystem restoration, improved habitat connectivity and long-term environmental resilience in the region.
"The initiative complements the Government of Kenya’s ambitious 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme led by H.E. President William Ruto, which aims to increase Kenya’s tree cover to 30% by 2032," a statement by the commission said.
Under the project, Drylake Ngelesa Conservancy will spearhead the planting of indigenous tree species across the greater Amboseli ecosystem, with a target of 500,000 trees within five years.
The initiative is expected to support land restoration efforts in areas affected by degradation, while also enhancing carbon absorption and protecting wildlife habitats.
The event was attended by renowned Indian conservationists and wildlife photographers Shri Dileep Anthikad and Ms. Remya Warrier of Ngelesa Conservancy, Padma Shri awardee Dr. Prakash Heda, local conservation stakeholders, county government officials, and members of the Maasai community.
The Amboseli ecosystem, which lies along the Kenya-Tanzania border, is a critical wildlife corridor known for its elephant population and scenic savannah landscapes.
The launch marks another step in strengthening bilateral cooperation between India and Kenya, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to global environmental sustainability and climate action.
Communities participate in tree planting activities during the campaign launch in Amboseli/HANDOUT
High Commission of India in Nairobi unveils large-scale tree planting campaign at Amboseli on June 5, 2026/HANDOUT
Communities participate in tree planting activities during the campaign launch in Amboseli/HANDOUT
