Kenya sets new Guinness World Record for simultaneous mangrove tree planting
Kenya has achieved a new Guinness World Record for the most people planting mangrove trees simultaneously, with 4,124 verified participants at the Jomvu Mangrove Ecosystem. The event, organized by the Kenya Scouts Association in partnership with the Kenya Forest Service and the M-PESA Foundation, saw 4,196 participants, including scouts, community members, and conservationists. Official GWR adjudicator Carl Saville confirmed the record after reviewing documentation and verifying compliance with guidelines. The successful attempt surpassed the minimum threshold of 3,001 participants. Dr. Clement Ng'oriareng, Principal Senior Deputy Chief Conservator of Forests at KFS, highlighted that the exercise met high verification standards, ensuring ecological restoration. Senior KFS Conservator Boniface Mulwa noted that 50 KFS rangers acted as stewards. National Scout Chief Commissioner Victor Radido expressed the personal significance of the record attempt for conservation. The Kenya Scouts Association has appealed to President William Ruto to recognize the achievement and honor those involved. This initiative supports President Ruto's directive to plant 15 billion trees by 2032 and achieve 30% national tree cover. Environment Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa emphasized the importance of protecting Kenya's shrinking mangrove forests, which are vital for climate resilience, coastal ecosystems, and local economies.
