A tree planting exercise in Kiu Wetland in Makueni county was on the verge of turning tragic after President William Ruto almost slipped.
The Head of State was planting a tree seedling when he almost slipped while ensuring it was firm in the hole.
His security detail had to respond swiftly to salvage the situation but the President took control of the moment and saved himself from falling.
It is after surviving the fall that he, seemingly in jest, told his security officers not to worry.
"Tulieni... Mimi ni huster," Ruto said sparking laughter among members of the public present.
President Ruto led the tree-planting exercise in Kiu Wetland on Monday.
Joined by First Lady Rachel Ruto, the President presided over the planting of over 150,000 trees.
Ruto has called for concerted efforts in environmental protection to mitigate the effects of climate change.
The President appealed to Kenyans to support the government's tree-planting exercise to increase the country’s tree cover.
“We want every Kenyan, from every part of the country, to plant trees. That is why we have set aside this day to plant trees.”
President Ruto urged Kenyans to cease encroachment on the nation's wetlands and forests, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding water catchment areas.
This, he explained, will ensure the country has better climatic conditions, a better environment, regular rains and adequate rains to support agriculture.
“If there is a programme that will make a meaningful impact in the attainment of our food security goals, and address the cost of living, it is environmental protection,” he said.
Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, his spouse Pastor Dorcas, Environment Cabinet Secretary Soipan Tuya, Makueni Governor Mutula Kilonzo Junior, and Kajiado Governor Joseph Ole Lenku were present.
Others were MPs Mwengi Mutuse (Kibwezi West), Nimrod Mbai (Kitui East), Joshua Mwalyo (Masinga), Vincent Musyoka (Mwala), Yakub Adow (Bura), James Murango (Kirinyaga), Tabitha Mitinda (Nominated), Reuben Kiborek (Mogotio) and Former Makueni Governor Prof Kivutha Kibwana.
The President said the government will gazette all wetlands in Makueni County and protect them from encroachment.
The Head of State said the government will step up efforts geared towards protecting and rehabilitating over 10,000 wetlands in the country.