The Embassy of Israel in Kenya has partnered with Mama Doing Good, an organization responsible for implementing the initiatives of the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya.

This collaboration, marked by a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), paves the way for the creation of "Zion Gardens" in Machakos County, a project poised to bring hope, sustainability, and environmental restoration to the region.

The MoU, inked between Mama Doing Good's CEO, Dr. John Chumo, and Israel's Ambassador to Kenya, Michael Lotem, underscores the robust bond between Kenya and Israel and showcases the Embassy of Israel's commitment to supporting Mama Doing Good's vital work.

The centrepiece of this partnership, the "Zion Forest," will span 15 hectares of land and consist of 5,000 indigenous trees, serving as a symbol of hope, sustainability, and resilience.

This carefully cultivated forest will play a pivotal role in the environmental restoration and preservation efforts in Machakos County.

This joint endeavour aligns with President William Ruto's National Tree-Growing Restoration Campaign, initiated in December 2022, aimed at ushering in a greener and more sustainable future for the nation.

Under this campaign, the First Lady has committed to the ambitious goal of planting 500 million trees, with the Zion Forest playing a crucial role in achieving this objective.

The inspiration for Zion Gardens draws from Israel's remarkable experience in environmental restoration, particularly its Yatir Forest, established in the challenging Negev Desert during the 1960s.

This forest stands as a testament to the transformative power of afforestation, showcasing that sustainable practices, community involvement, and adaptability can lead to the recovery of ecosystems, offering valuable ecological, economic, and social benefits.

The establishment of Zion Gardens in Machakos County signifies a beacon of hope, a testament to the enduring friendship between Kenya and Israel, and a step towards a greener, more sustainable future for both nations.