Fifteen Billion Trees to Mitigate Climate Change in Kenya

Abstract

Developing countries face unique challenges in addressing climate change. The African continent is disproportionately affected by Climate change with severe negative impacts on livelihoods, environments, and economies. To mitigate climate change vulnerabilities, Kenya has adopted an ambitious strategy to plant fifteen billion trees by 2030. While this initiative demonstrates a strong commitment to achieving the national climate goals and restoring ecosystems, several obstacles, such as competing development needs and lack of sufficient funds hinder effective implementation of the policy. This study critically examines the challenges of implementing Kenya’s climate policy of planting fifteen billion trees by 2030 and ensuring long-term protection of the planted areas. Evidence-based analysis of the policy gaps will strengthen the tree planting action, increase resilience, and adaptation measures towards a more sustainable environment. This is a policy analysis study underpinned by institutionalist theory that emphasizes the centrality of institutions in policy making and implementation.