*Eldoret, Kenya* – In a landmark event supporting Kenya’s environmental conservation agenda, Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry Cabinet Secretary Hon. Dr. Deborah Baraza today launched a school-based tree nursery program at Wareng High School, Uasin Gishu County.
The initiative, implemented in partnership with the Chandaria Foundation, Global Peace Foundation, KCB Foundation, Mama Doing Good, and SMACHS Foundation, aligns with President William Ruto’s ambitious plan to grow 15 billion trees by 2032.
**A Nursery with National Impact**
The newly launched facility, christened “Mbogi Green ya Wareng” by students, has the capacity to propagate 100,000 seedlings annually. During the launch, 10,000 coffee and avocado trees were planted at the school, which holds special significance as the alma mater of President Ruto.
“This isn’t just about planting trees,” CS Baraza emphasized. “It’s about creating sustainable ecosystems that provide nutrition through fruit trees, preserve biodiversity with indigenous species, and generate income for student scholarships.”
**Ambitious Targets Set**
Wareng High School has set an ambitious target to propagate 500,000 trees within three years, with 70% being fruit trees and 30% indigenous and exotic species. The program will be replicated in schools across all 47 counties, with each nursery expected to produce over 100,000 seedlings annually.
**Celebrating Local Leadership**
Global Peace Foundation’s Regional Representative Mr. Daniel Juma Omondi urged students to emulate President Ruto’s exemplary work ethic, noting his journey from Wareng student to national leader. SMACHS Foundation founder Charlene Ruto was commended for her youth mentorship efforts.
Uasin Gishu County has already surpassed its tree planting targets, with over 28 million trees planted to date. Deputy Governor Hon. Evans Kapkea highlighted this achievement during the event.
**Multi-Sectoral Support**
The launch saw participation from key stakeholders including:
– Dr. Shadrack Ngetich, Wareng School Principal
– Mr. Bill Chellilim, CEO of Chelilim Foundation
– Dr. Selly Kimosop, Environment Ministry ES
– Dr. Edison Nyale, County Commissioner
The event concluded with donations distributed to nearly 2,000 students, underscoring the program’s community impact.
“This partnership demonstrates how private sector involvement can accelerate our climate action goals,” CS Baraza noted, calling for more investments in forestry and agroforestry initiatives.
