I marked my first national tree-planting holiday in Kenya, a key step toward our country’s goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2030. In Gituto village in Embu County, I used the day to reflect on something important: the real power of community action.

I’ve noticed that when governments, non-profit organizations, and institutions give directives like this, many of us tend to wait to be provided with trees to plant in our homes, schools, and churches. Yet the benefits of these activities are directly ours. When we shift from conventional farming to agroforestry, we gain so much in the face of climate change. Trees on and around our farms improve soil health, regulate microclimates, increase carbon sequestration, and boost biodiversity at multiple levels. They enrich soil organic matter and carbon content, support life above and below the ground, and open opportunities for innovative, diverse agricultural businesses. So I ask myself, and others, why do we wait?

During a training I facilitated on Asset-Based Community Development, I challenged members of Gituto to become problem solvers by using the knowledge, skills, and resources already within their reach. My message was simple: don’t wait for others to provide the trees; take initiative and plant them ourselves.

The community embraced the challenge. Together, we prepared a tree nursery with over 1,400 trees of different species, each chosen for its unique benefits. These trees will be planted in homes and farms for personal use, and some will be sold to generate extra income. I saw men and women come together in remarkable teamwork, bringing to life the African proverb, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” Community members contributed polythene bags, many repurposed from recycled milk packets, seedlings gathered from across Nthawa Ward, and their time and energy. Two skilled members of the community also stepped up to train others on which trees to plant and why.

Although we did not celebrate the national tree-planting day on November 13th alongside the rest of Kenya, since our nursery was still being prepared, I see this as a meaningful step forward. It is not just about meeting tree-planting targets; it is about realizing our potential as a community to work together and use our own resources for social and economic growth. For me, tree planting is not a one-day event. In the coming weeks, I will be joining the villagers for our own planting day, one we created ourselves without waiting for anyone.

This experience has reinforced my belief in the strength of African communities to unite, share responsibility, and drive rural development. As a CorpsAfrica Volunteer, I see my role as mobilizing the community’s strengths, understanding their needs and aspirations, and supporting them as they design and implement their own solutions. I truly believe this is just the beginning.