By SHABAN MAKOKHA
May 23, 2026| Matungu politician and NTSA Director Paul Posho has called on parents, schools, and local communities to embrace large-scale planting of Hass avocado seedlings, describing the variety as both a weapon against climate change and a long-term economic lifeline for households and learning institutions.
Posho spoke yesterday during a tree-planting exercise across Mirere, Makale, Khalaba, Namasanda, and Shikhondi, where he personally led hundreds of residents and learners in putting the seedlings into the ground.
“When our children see us plant trees, they learn responsibility, conservation and hope,” Posho said. “The Hass avocado is not just a tree—it’s an asset.”
He noted that Kenya continues to suffer the effects of a changing climate—unpredictable rains, prolonged droughts, and falling farm output. The Hass variety, he added, is globally prized for high yields, rich nutrition, and strong export demand. With proper care, it can generate substantial income for families and schools.
Posho argued that schools could ease financial pressure by investing in agroforestry. Avocado proceeds, he said, could support remedial classes, co-curricular activities, and even offset fees for needy learners.
“A school that plants trees plants its own future,” he said. “These avocado trees can pay fees, support feeding programmes, provide shade and even supply timber for small construction needs.”
The initiative, which also involved NTSA staff, is part of a wider environmental campaign. Posho revealed the programme targets planting over 20,000 Hass avocado seedlings across Kakamega, West Pokot, Coast, and Kisii, focusing on institutions and vulnerable communities.
Turning to politics, the Matungu leader hinted at his 2027 parliamentary ambitions, saying he is ready to bring transformative national government projects to the constituency. He criticised current leadership, claiming Matungu has been sidelined because its elected representatives lack close ties to the President.
“Matungu deserves development. We cannot continue missing out on key government projects because our leaders are not at the decision-making table,” he said.
Residents welcomed the avocado project as a rare chance for sustainable income, greener neighbourhoods, and practical environmental education for their children. With global demand for Hass avocado rising, many believe the seedlings planted today could become one of Matungu’s most enduring community investments.