Senator Kisang pushes for Kibiwott’s recognition after setting tree-planting world record
By Emmanuel Rono, May 5, 2026Elgeyo Marakwet Senator William Kisang has called for the formal recognition of Hillary Kiplagat Kibiwott after the young activist successfully planted 23,326 indigenous tree seedlings within 24 hours, surpassing the standing Guinness World Record.
The record-breaking exercise took place at the Kapsowar Forest Station in Elgeyo Marakwet County between April 22 and April 23, 2026. Kibiwott exceeded the previous global mark of 23,060 trees, placing Kenya at the forefront of grassroots climate action efforts.
Speaking on the Senate floor on May 5, 2026, Kisang described the achievement as a moment of national pride and a demonstration of what dedication and vision can accomplish. He noted that the initiative goes beyond numbers, highlighting its significance in addressing deforestation, climate change, and environmental degradation.
“Mr Speaker, sir, allow me to recognise that this achievement is deeply rooted in a personal journey of transformation and purpose. Inspired by his early experiences of witnessing deforestation, Mr Kibiwott chose to champion environmental restoration, turning a challenge into an opportunity for positive change,” Kisang said.
Restoration of degraded landscapes.
Kibiwott, the founder of the Green Earth Ambassadors Foundation, has spent over eight years mobilising communities and restoring degraded landscapes.
Senator Kisang noted that the initiative aligns with the Kenyan government’s ambitious environmental agenda, led by President William Samoei Ruto, which aims to plant 15 billion trees by 2030.
He urged relevant ministries and stakeholders to scale up support for youth-led climate programmes and to ensure the long-term survival of the newly planted seedlings.
“This remarkable achievement serves as an inspiration to the youth of this nation and to the world at large. It proves that individual action when driven by purpose and commitment can yield global impact,” Kisang said.
Ambassador for Kenya’s 15 Billion Trees Campaign
Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa has announced the appointment of tree-planting champion Hillary Kibiwott as an ambassador for Kenya’s 15 Billion Trees Campaign after his record-breaking effort of planting 23,326 trees within 24 hours.
The recognition comes as Kibiwott awaits official ratification of the achievement by Guinness World Records, a milestone that has already drawn national attention and praise from environmental leaders and climate activists across the country.
Speaking on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, through a statement shared on X, Barasa said Kibiwott’s effort is the kind of personal commitment needed to help Kenya achieve its ambitious target of restoring forests and expanding tree cover.
She said his work has become an example of how one person’s dedication can inspire a wider national movement and encourage communities to take climate action seriously across all counties.