The tree planting exercise and environmental football match took place at Kerita Secondary School in Kesses Sub-county as part of a major environmental awareness event ahead of the International Conference on Renewable Energy, Climate Change and Restoration of Ecosystems (ICRECC) 2025. The conference is scheduled to take place in Eldoret City, Kenya, from 22nd to 25th April 2025.
The event which was held on Monday, 14th April 2025, was a collaborative initiative between Moi University and Uasin Gishu County Government. Aimed at promoting awareness of sustainability and ecosystem restoration, it featured a large-scale tree planting exercise alongside an environmental-themed football match.
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Prof. Kotut (right) waters a newly planted tree during the environmental event
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Prof. Kotut (standing) addresses the youth during an engagement session at Kerita School
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The Moi University delegation was led by Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Kiplagat Kotut, while the Uasin Gishu County team was headed by Deputy Governor Hon. Evans Kapkea. Also present was Dr. Rose Ramkat, Dean of the School of Science & Aerospace studies at Moi University, whose leadership has been instrumental in driving the ICRECC 2025 initiative forward.
Prof. Kotut emphasized the power of research-driven partnerships, highlighting how such collaborations can fuel development initiatives that are not only grounded in data but also tailored to local needs. Speaking to the youth, Prof. Kotut delivered an inspiring message, urging them to take an active role in safeguarding the environment and shaping a sustainable future. He emphasized that young people are not just beneficiaries of environmental efforts, but vital agents of change whose energy, innovation and commitment are essential to restoring ecosystems and combating climate change. Prof. Kotut also took the opportunity to encourage potential students to consider joining the Moi University which is a hub for quality education, research and innovation geared toward sustainable development.
Dr. Silas Kering, Director of Energy at Uasin Gishu County and Chair of the ICRECC 2025 technical committee, emphasized the importance of such forums in fostering knowledge exchange and strengthening capacity in renewable energy and environmental sustainability.
The upcoming ICRECC 2025 conference, themed 'Towards the Sustainability of our Ecosystems,' is expected to attract international experts, scholars and policymakers to explore sustainable and innovative solutions to today’s environmental challenges.
Monday’s event not only promoted environmental stewardship but also strengthened the collaboration between academia and county government thus set a positive tone in the lead-up to the climate change conference.