Greening Schools for Climate Action

Growing Young Environmental Stewards Through Tree Monitoring

Tree monitoring activities continued across five schools in Tharaka Nithi County this quarter, building on the progress made in the previous reporting period. The 400 fruit trees planted earlier laid a strong foundation for establishing long-term school-based food forests that will contribute to improved nutrition, biodiversity, shade, and experiential learning for years to come.

With support from GlobalGiving, Communities EverGreening Africa (CEGA) engaged 360 student environmental stewards in tracking tree growth, health, survival rates, and biodiversity using the CEGA Tree Growth & Health Tracker.

Students played an active role in caring for the planted trees through mulching, watering, and spot weeding to promote healthy development. In January 2026, immediately after returning from the school holidays, learners resumed monitoring activities with guidance from the CEGA team. Their enthusiasm was evident as they documented impressive growth progress. Some trees had grown from approximately 30 centimeters to 130 centimeters within just three months. Several papaw trees had already begun flowering, sparking excitement among students who are now eagerly anticipating fruit production in the coming months.

By measuring, recording, and observing wildlife interactions around the trees, students transformed their school compounds into practical outdoor classrooms. Through this hands-on process, they strengthened responsibility, patience, teamwork, and leadership skills. Caring for living trees not only enhanced their environmental knowledge but also nurtured confidence and a deeper sense of stewardship.

The continued monitoring of these 400 fruit trees strengthens survival rates while advancing the long-term vision of resilient school food forests that support both ecological restoration and improved nutrition.

Improving School Nutrition Through Innovative Gardening

During the same period, CEGA supported one school in Tharaka Nithi County to establish a vertical, multi-storey kitchen garden designed to maximize limited space and conserve water while producing nutritious vegetables.

Approximately 40 students actively participated in constructing the multi-storey garden, gaining practical skills in sustainable food production. The structure was developed using layered soil enriched with organic manure, creating a productive growing system that enhances soil aeration, improves nutrient retention, and supports healthy plant growth. The diversity of crops cultivated within the structure also helps reduce pest pressure naturally.

The vertical design allows vegetables, herbs, and fruits to be grown within a compact area, making it especially suitable for schools and households with limited land. Students continue to participate in maintaining the garden, strengthening their hands-on learning experience.

Beyond contributing to improved school meals, the multi-storey garden serves as a demonstration model that families can replicate at home. Its space-efficient structure provides a practical solution for producing nutritious food even in small or urban settings.