Thogoto, Kiambu County – In a significant demonstration of environmental commitment, the Dutch Royal Couple, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima, participated in a tree planting exercise at Thogoto Forest today, as part of their official state visit to Kenya.
The event, hosted by Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale, saw the planting of 2,000 trees, marking a powerful symbol of cooperation between Kenya and the Netherlands in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable environmental practices.
The tree growing initiative forms part of the Netherlands’ broader efforts on nature conservation and is aligned with Kenya’s ambitious 15 billion tree planting program. This partnership is key to advancing both nations’ shared climate agenda, emphasizing the importance of environmental sustainability.
Thogoto Community Forest Associations(CFA) grows 2,000 trees at Thogoto Forest to mark the Dutch Royal Couple state visit to Kenya.CS @HonAdenDuale. Aden Duale today hosted The Dutch King Willem-Alexander & Queen Maxima at Thogoto Forest Kiambu County for a tree growing exercise. pic.twitter.com/68ywQRCzuc
— Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry (@Environment_Ke) March 18, 2025
The Royal Couple’s visit, which spans three days, aims to strengthen bilateral ties between the two countries, with a special focus on sustainable agriculture and water management, which are recognized as priority areas for collaboration.
Earlier in the day, the Dutch King and Queen, alongside Kenyan officials, signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) in the fields of tourism, trade, investment, and agriculture, setting the stage for enhanced cooperation and investment opportunities.
CS Duale was joined by key government figures, including Agriculture Cabinet Secretary Mutahi Kagwe, Forestry Principal Secretary Mr. Gitonga Mugambi, and Chief Conservator of Forests Mr. Alex Lemarkoko.
Also present were the Netherlands Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Henk Jan Bakker, and Dutch Ministers Caspar Veldkamp (Foreign Affairs), Reinette Klever (Foreign Trade and Development), and Ruben Brekelmans (Defence).
The visit underscores the deepening partnership between Kenya and the Netherlands, reinforcing their joint commitment to fostering a sustainable future through collaborative efforts in agriculture, trade, and environmental conservation.
