Eldoret: The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry is rolling out tree-growing and planting initiatives in schools across the country through establishing nurseries in order to raise both tree and fruit tree seedlings. The initiative aims at inculcating a culture of tree growing among schoolchildren to conserve the environment and support livelihoods through income from the sale of seedlings and improved nutritional components from fruit tree seedlings.
According to Kenya News Agency, Environment Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mulongo Barasa, speaking at Wareng’ High School in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, emphasized the need to impart a culture of tree growing to schoolchildren to ensure sustainability in terms of environmental conservation from generation to generation. She noted that the programme will contribute to achieving the 15 billion trees target as per the presidential directive, which aims to restore degraded land, boost water conservation, and promote biodiversity.
Dr. Barasa highlighted that fruit trees could address food security issues and promote the commercialisation of trees for timber, non-timber, and medicinal purposes. She underscored the importance of a whole-of-government approach, working with the private sector and partners like the Chandaria Foundation, Mpesa Foundation, and KCB Foundation, to achieve the 15 billion trees target by 2032.
The CS also mentioned innovations like aerial seeding and fencing to prevent encroachment and damage by human activities or animals. She emphasized the importance of teaching students sustainable tree-growing practices to ensure long-term conservation efforts in schools and communities.
At Wareng’ High School, a tree nursery supported by the Chandaria Foundation has raised over 50,000 seedlings, with additional seedlings expected from the Kenya Forest Service and partners. Students focus on growing 70% fruit trees along with indigenous species to promote biodiversity and other benefits.
Dr. Barasa encouraged Kenyans, the private sector, and other foundations to participate in creating a healthy and safe environment through tree planting. She noted the potential for schools to generate income by selling seedlings, which could fund scholarships for students from vulnerable backgrounds.
Addressing the current 12% tree cover in Kenya, Dr. Barasa stressed the need for public education and community involvement to overcome resistance to tree-growing initiatives. She warned of the potential consequences of inadequate tree cover, such as land degradation.
Charlene Ruto, CEO of the Smart Mechanised Agriculture and Climate Action for Humanity and Sustainability (SMACHS) Foundation, stressed the importance of environmental conservation as a source of income for young people. She cited success stories like The Lenana School, where tree seedlings are sold to partners to support conservation efforts and generate income.
The SMACHS Foundation aims to empower Kenyan youth through climate-smart agriculture, equipping them with skills and knowledge to address food security and climate change challenges. Their focus includes sustainable farming practices, resource management, and environmental stewardship.