DCI JOINS THE NATION IN MAZINGIRA DAY CELBRATIONS BY PLANTING 3000, TREES
In a significant step towards environmental conservation, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) actively participated in the national Mazingira Day celebrations by planting 3,000 trees. This initiative aligns with the recent legislative changes where Utamaduni Day was substituted with Mazingira Day through the Miscellaneous Amendment Act 2024, amending the Public Holidays Act (Cap.110). Henceforth, Mazingira Day will be celebrated annually on October 10, marking a pivotal shift towards prioritizing environmental preservation within Kenya.
The commemoration of Mazingira Day by the DCI was led by the Deputy Director of Criminal Investigations, Mr. John Onyango. The tree planting exercise saw participation from various directorates within the DCI, taking place at the headquarters of the agency. This move underscores the DCI's commitment to not only uphold law and order but also to play a crucial role in environmental conservation.
The initiative is in direct response to President William Ruto's directive to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, a monumental goal aimed at combating climate change and enhancing the country's green cover. The DCI has shown commendable progress towards this target, with a total of 14,000 trees planted in various locations to date. These include 3,000 trees at the DCI headquarters, another 3,000 trees at the National Criminal Intelligence Academy (NCIA), 5,000 trees at the National Police Service GSU Field Training Camp in Magadi, and an additional 3,000 trees planted on Mazingira Day itself.
Mr. Onyango emphasized the DCI's intention to extend its collaborative efforts with schools, hospitals, and other institutions for tree planting. This approach is geared towards overcoming space limitations and ensuring the broad reach and impact of this green initiative. He also praised the dedication of DCI officers and staff, who have shown overwhelming support for the cause.
To ensure the sustainability of this initiative, the newly appointed head of Reforms, Research, and Innovation Development (RRID), Dr. Phillip Ouma, Phd has been tasked with overseeing the maintenance and growth of the newly planted trees. Mr. Onyango highlighted the importance of not just planting trees, but also nurturing them to maturity, to fully realize their environmental benefits.
The Mazingira Day celebrations saw the participation of directors from different DCI directorates and civilian staff, all coming together to mark this important day. The event not only signifies the DCI's environmental stewardship but also sets a precedent for other government agencies and the private sector to follow suit in contributing to the country's reforestation efforts.
As Kenya celebrates Mazingira Day, the DCI's proactive participation in this national initiative showcases its dedication to safeguarding the environment for future generations. It's a reminder that every effort counts in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation, and collective action can lead to significant positive impacts.
