PHOTOS: From State House to the earth: Ruto's tree planting push on Mazingira Day

Photos · Tania Wanjiku · October 10, 2025

President William Ruto marking Mazingira Day at State House, Nairobi on October 10, 2025.

In Summary

Originally known as Utamaduni Day and earlier as Moi Day in honor of the late President Daniel arap Moi, the holiday underwent a significant transformation in April 2024 when President Ruto signed the Statute Law (Miscellaneous Amendments) Bill.

On October 10, 2024, Kenyans marked Mazingira Day, a public holiday dedicated to environmental conservation and supporting the nation’s efforts to protect its natural resources.

President William Ruto, alongside First Lady Rachel Ruto, led the observance by overseeing a tree planting event at State House, Nairobi.

They were joined by Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa, other officials, and schoolchildren.

First Lady Rachel Ruto passes around seedlings during the marking of Mazingira Day at State House, Nairobi, on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

A young girl carrying a seedling marking Mazingira Day at State House, Nairobi, on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

First Lady Rachel Ruto with a young girl carrying a seedling, marking Mazingira Day at State House, Nairobi on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto marking Mazingira Day at State House, Nairobi, on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

President William Ruto engaging a schoolgirl while marking Mazingira Day at State House, Nairobi, on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

An aerial view of the Mazingira Day event at State House, Nairobi, on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

Mazingira Day, which is observed annually, aims to emphasize the importance of environmental protection in addressing climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. The day offers an opportunity to engage in meaningful conservation activities and to raise awareness about the global environmental crises.

An aerial view of Mazingira Day event at State House, Nairobi, on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

President William Ruto having a moment with school children during the marking as they mark Mazingira Day at State House, Nairobi on October 10, 2025. PHOTO/PCS

The Bill amended the Public Holidays Act (Cap. 110), officially renaming Utamaduni Day to Mazingira Day, reinforcing the country's commitment to environmental sustainability.