The Kenya Forest Service (KFS) has intensified preparations for Sunday’s Guinness World Records attempt by the Kenya Scouts Association (KSA), describing the initiative as a landmark partnership that combines environmental conservation, community participation and global recognition.
The record attempt, scheduled for July 26 at the Jomvu Mangrove Ecosystem in Mombasa County, will see 5,000 participants attempt to set a new Guinness World Record under the official category, “Most people planting mangrove trees simultaneously.”
The event coincides with the International Day for the Conservation of Mangrove Ecosystems, whose 2026 theme is “Healthy Mangroves for Sustainable Blue Economy and Climate Resilience.”
While the Guinness World Records title has generated international attention, KFS says the initiative has been carefully designed to deliver long-term environmental benefits by restoring one of Kenya’s most valuable coastal ecosystems.
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Recognising the scale and significance of the exercise, the Kenya Forest Service has assumed the lead technical and coordination role, working alongside the Kenya Scouts Association to ensure every aspect of the event meets the stringent verification standards required by Guinness World Records while delivering meaningful ecological restoration.
Chief Conservator of Forests Alex Lemarkoko said the partnership reflects a shared commitment to protecting Kenya’s mangrove ecosystems and advancing the country’s climate action agenda.
“Beyond securing a spot in global history, this initiative represents a critical stride toward environmental sustainability and more specifically the conservation of mangrove ecosystems which are critical for enhanced carbon sequestration and the sustenance of community livelihoods especially in the blue economy.”
To safeguard the credibility of the record attempt, KFS will provide two independent witnesses and 50 stewards to oversee participant groups, monitor compliance with Guinness World Records guidelines and prepare the independent validation reports required by adjudicators.
Preparations have also involved technical mapping of the restoration site, site readiness assessments, volunteer coordination and continuous engagement with Guinness World Records officials, independent witnesses and local community stakeholders.
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According to Lemarkoko, the exercise is expected to strengthen the conservation, protection and sustainable management of Kenya’s mangrove ecosystems while supporting the Presidential directive to grow 15 billion trees on 10.6 million hectares by 2032 and increase national tree cover to 30 per cent.
“This world record attempt is designed to enhance the conservation, protection, and sustainable management of Kenya’s vital mangrove ecosystems, safeguard coastal community livelihoods, and directly support the Presidential directive to grow 15 billion trees by 2032 propelling the nation toward a 30% national tree cover goal.”
The Kenya Forest Service says the partnership also provides an opportunity to showcase Kenya’s leadership in forest landscape restoration, climate action and environmental stewardship on the global stage.
If successful, Sunday’s event will not only secure Kenya a place in the Guinness World Records but also demonstrate how strong institutional partnerships can translate global recognition into lasting environmental impact.
By combining technical expertise, volunteer mobilisation and ecosystem restoration, KFS and the Kenya Scouts Association hope to leave behind a legacy measured not only by a world record, but by healthier mangrove forests that will continue supporting biodiversity, climate resilience and coastal livelihoods for generations.
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