Parliament adopts motion that will force road contractors to plant trees

A motion that will make it compulsory for road contractors to replace any tree cut down during construction has been passed in Parliament.

Sponsored by Dagoretti South MP John 'KJ' Kiarie, the motion also requires government to include a component of tree planting in all road network designs and road reserves across the country.

The National Assembly on Thursday, November 17 unanimously adopted the motion, which was seconded by Kipipiri MP Wanjiku Muhia.

KJ's motion is anchored on Article 42 of the Constitution - which states that every person has a right to a clean and healthy environment - and Article 69(1)(d) which mandates the State to encourage public participation in the management, protection and conservation of the environment.

The motion also takes into consideration that the world, Kenya included, is currently reeling from the negative effects of global warming and climate change, with the main contributor being deforestation.

"The road network in the country currently stands at approximately 177,800km with a development rate of 600km per annum; deeply concerned that, there has been persistent destruction of trees and vegetation along the road reserves and roadsides during road construction leading to adverse effects on the ecosystem," the motion reads in part.

The motion acknowledges the many benefits of roadside tree planting, including but not limited to better soil formation, increased water quality as trees reduce sediment flow, reduced erosion, road beatification, and flood control as trees slow and absorb water runoff.

Other benefits, as outlined in the motion, are wind-breaking, providing important pollinator, habitats for animals, and improving people's health.