The Kenya Airports Authority has launched a beautification program for the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The major project being undertaken in partnership with the Fresh produce exporters association of Kenya is aimed at improving the look and feel of the airport.
“It is also meant to raise awareness around the flower industry, a vibrant contributor to Kenya’s economy and JKIA’s cargo export business,” KAA said in a statement.
FPEAK said it appreciates East Africa Growers and Royal FloraHolland who participated in the project adding that more members will be brought on board in the initiative of “adopt a ground”.
KAA chairman Caleb Kositany said the program which will also be carried out in other airports will involve planting trees and flowers in all areas within the facilities which includes the driveways.
While the tree planting is in line with the President’s agenda, the flowers, he said help to clean up the environment by creating carbon dioxide-absorbing and oxygen-radiating plants.
The country’s largest airport serves as a hub for most airlines boasting over 40 passenger airlines and 25 cargo airlines.
“Horticulture is one of our leading exchange earners and by planting these export flowers, we are promoting it as well have people appreciate our worth towards it,” Kositany said.
Kositany who presided over the launch by planting exercise said flights are the major contributor to carbon emissions and trees around the facility will also go along in mitigating it.
Flowers account for 23 per cent of horticulture which is the largest sub-sector in agriculture contributing 33 per cent of the GDP.