Nyeri, Kenya – 6th July 2026St. Teresa Equator Senior School in Nyeri County has launched the Hug the Earth Tree Nursery, an environmental initiative aimed at nurturing climate-conscious learners and promoting sustainability within the school community.
Hosted by the principal Ms. Margaret Munene, the event brought together leaders from education, government, civil society and philanthropy, including Hon. Hulda Momanyi Hiltsley, Minnesota State Representative in the United States, Daniel Juma Omondi, Africa Regional Representative of the Global Peace Foundation, representatives of the Chandaria Foundation, MEMA, the Truphena Muthoni Foundation, the Ministry of Education, the school’s Board of Management, teachers and students.
Speaking as the chief guest, Hon. Hulda Momanyi Hiltsley urged the students to embrace confidence, discipline, leadership and service. She reminded the girls that their background should never limit their destiny, encouraging them to dream boldly and remain focused on their education and personal growth.
“Your starting point does not determine your finishing point,” she told the students, challenging them to plant not only trees, but also character, kindness, honesty, integrity and courage.
Daniel Juma Omondi, representing the Global Peace Foundation, said the launch was more than an environmental activity, describing it as the planting of hope, responsibility and a better future for generations to come. He said the initiative aligned with GPF’s commitment to education, character formation and environmental conservation.
He also conveyed greetings from Dr. Manu Chandaria and announced that the Chandaria Foundation had pledged an apiary worth KSh 150,000 to support beekeeping, biodiversity and environmental learning at the school.
The event also celebrated environmental champion Truphena Muthoni, who gained global recognition through her Guinness World Record for the longest marathon hugging a tree. Speakers praised her for turning a personal achievement into a movement for environmental awareness and youth inspiration.
School leaders expressed gratitude to the partners and guests, noting that the tree nursery would serve as a living classroom for students and a lasting symbol of conservation, responsibility and community partnership.
The launch concluded with renewed calls for students to become ambassadors of environmental protection by planting trees, caring for nature and inspiring others to do the same.
