The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) Foundation spearheaded a tree-planting exercise at Ikuu Boys High School, with the aim of establishing a thriving orchard to benefit the institution. The initiative, led by KEPSA Foundation Executive Director Gloria Ndike, is part of a broader effort to promote environmental sustainability, food security, and climate conservation in schools.
Speaking during the event, Ms. Ndike emphasized the importance of tree planting and how the orchard will positively impact the school. She highlighted that fruit trees will not only enhance the school’s environment but also provide nutritional benefits to students.
“The fruits from these trees will greatly help the school by supplementing students’ diets with essential nutrients,” she noted. “Additionally, having a variety of seedlings within the institution will provide an opportunity for the school to sell surplus seedlings and generate income.”
Ms. Ndike also stressed the role of the orchard in climate conservation, noting that tree planting is a crucial step in mitigating the effects of climate change. “By establishing an orchard here, we are not only securing food for the students but also contributing to a greener environment. Trees absorb carbon dioxide, reduce soil erosion, and improve air quality—making this initiative a win for both the school and the planet,” she stated.During the exercise, participants planted avocado trees as part of the orchard project. Ms. Ndike also donated fruit seedlings to the school, ensuring that the institution could expand its orchard in the coming years.
She also took the opportunity to address the issue of child nutrition, urging parents and guardians to be mindful of what they feed their children. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that children receive nutritious meals for their overall growth and development.The event was graced by several key officials, including Tharaka Nithi County Director of Education (CDE) Brigit Wambua, Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Angela Wanyama, and Ikuu Boys High School Principal, Morris Thigaa.DCC Wanyama lauded the tree-planting initiative, noting that it aligns with the government’s reforestation efforts and climate change mitigation strategies. “This project is not just about planting trees; it is about securing a sustainable future for our children,” she remarked.
CDE Wambua commended KEPSA Foundation for its commitment to supporting education institutions, emphasizing that partnerships between the private sector and schools play a crucial role in enhancing learning environments. “When organizations like KEPSA invest in schools, they contribute to the holistic development of students, ensuring they grow up in a conducive environment,” she said.
On his part, Principal Thigaa expressed his gratitude for the initiative, stating that the orchard will serve as a long-term asset for the school. “This will not only improve our school’s landscape but also provide our students with hands-on agricultural knowledge and skills,” he noted.
The tree-planting exercise marks a step forward in KEPSA Foundation’s continued efforts to promote sustainability, education, and economic empowerment within learning institutions. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to supporting similar projects across the country, ensuring that schools benefit both environmentally and economically from such initiatives.
