Kapkanyar: In an effort aimed at empowering women hard hit by drought in West Pokot County, the International Tree Foundation, in partnership with the Perur Rays of Hope organisation, has distributed vertical kitchen garden materials to 100 households. This initiative enables women to grow vegetables for subsistence purposes and income generation.
According to Kenya News Agency, the move is aimed at combating food insecurity and malnutrition, thereby improving general human health within a region that has long been challenged by these issues. Joshua Mutambuki, the ITF Western Region Project Officer, stated that the organisation has partnered with Perur Rays of Hope to implement the FR100 project. This initiative supports women in establishing kitchen gardens, which are crucial for livelihood activities. In addition to vertical gardens, they have supported women's groups with beehives, fruit trees, and tree nursery training for income generation.
Mutambuki highlighted the benefits of vertical gardens, noting that households can grow up to 120 different types of vegetables within a limited space. He expressed satisfaction with the women's positive reception of the initiative, emphasizing that the gardens save space and require minimal water, which is vital during the dry season. Over 100 households have already benefitted from the provided materials, with plans for follow-up training sessions to ensure proper installation and use of the gardens.
Caroline Menach, Director of Perur Rays of Hope, expressed gratitude for ITF's support in improving livelihoods, particularly for women in Kapkanyar. She underscored the importance of supporting women in West Pokot County, a dry region, as they play a central role in ensuring food security at the household level. The vertical garden initiative offers innovative solutions for growing food with minimal water, particularly crucial during dry seasons.
Menach noted that women are often responsible for fetching water and sourcing vegetables for their families, a task that can be physically demanding and sometimes dangerous. The introduction of vertical gardens allows women to irrigate crops at home with less water, reducing the risk of accidents and ensuring access to nutritious food for their children. Beyond vertical gardens, ITF's support includes beehives and Eco-stoves, all aimed at empowering women and strengthening livelihoods.
Eliza Apollo, chairlady of the Sindenden Women's group, expressed appreciation for ITF's support, which has enabled them to establish a tree nursery project and receive eco-stoves. These efforts contribute to environmental conservation by reducing deforestation and promoting sustainable practices. The donated beehives will also facilitate honey harvesting and income generation.
The initiative not only improves household food security but also supports community development, better education opportunities for children, and overall household well-being. The surplus produce can be sold to enhance economic stability, fostering a happier and more secure community.