ACK Diocese of Mombasa Undertakes Second Tree Planting at Anglican Forest Mgombezi in Partnership with Consolidated and KCB Bank

The Anglican Church of Kenya Diocese of Mombasa, under the leadership of Diocesan Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Alphonce Mwaro Baya, has carried out its second tree planting initiative at the Anglican Forest in Mgombezi. This effort reinforces the Diocese’s ongoing commitment to environmental conservation, community empowerment, and the broader mission of the Green Anglican Movement.

Consolidated Bank, represented by Albert Anchichi, Head of Legal Services and Company Secretary, and John Irungu, Mombasa Branch Manager, donated 1,400 tree seedlings and 5 water tanks. The water tanks will support the local community in harvesting and storing rainwater, ensuring the long-term sustainability of the newly planted trees and addressing water scarcity in the region.

KCB Bank, represented by David Makumi, Ukunda Branch Manager, contributed 250 seedlings, further advancing the region’s reforestation and climate mitigation goals.

The exercise was supported by Forester Eliud Thuo, who oversees the Lunga Lunga Subcounty, providing technical and environmental guidance.

Students from Mgombezi Primary School and Mwena Secondary School actively participated, emphasizing the role of youth and education in environmental stewardship.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Alphonce Mwaro Baya, speaking during the event, reaffirmed the Church’s role in ecological care:

“Planting trees is more than a green act; it is a faithful response to God’s call to care for creation. We are grateful to our partners for walking with us on this journey of ecological transformation.”

The event saw enthusiastic participation from church members and clergy. The Mothers’ Union, led by the MU and All Women President Rev. Martha Mwaro, played a central role in the exercise. Also present were members of the Kenya Anglican Youth Organisation (KAYO), the Kenya Anglican Men’s Association (KAMA), and various community leaders — all united in the shared mission of restoring and protecting God’s creation.

The Anglican Forest at Mgombezi now boasts over 4,000 trees planted over the past years. It also features a small dam, which serves as a vital water source for the local community during dry seasons. The dam not only supports domestic and agricultural needs but also benefits livestock and sustains the forest’s vegetation. These achievements mark the forest as a growing environmental sanctuary and a model of faith-driven conservation.

This initiative forms part of the Diocese’s broader ecological agenda aligned with the Green Anglican Movement, which encourages churches and communities to take tangible action in response to the climate crisis.