Tree Growing in Laikipia North — A Venture Beyond the Weather

Site Visit and Initial Assessment

Targeting public sites such as schools and churches, Dedan Kimathi Foundation visited Laikipia North Subcounty on Wednesday, 30th April 2025. The visit aimed to identify suitable tree growing sites, advise on proper species matching specific locations, and engage with beneficiaries on overcoming the dry climate challenges of Dol Dol location.

Challenges Hindering Tree Growing Efforts

Scarcity of water, soil salinity, lack of environmental education, and the urgent need for grazing were cited as the main obstacles. More pressing social issues—such as low levels of women empowerment and menstrual health challenges—have diverted community attention from environmental conservation. As an Arid and Semi-Arid Land (ASAL) area, tree growing requires a multi-dimensional approach for success.

Site Selection Criteria

The Foundation prioritized sites with access to reliable water sources, secure fencing, and committed community readiness. Additionally, consultations were held to determine the most preferred tree species to enhance community ownership and aftercare.

The following institutions were selected to benefit from environmental education, seedling donation, and volunteer-based tree planting:

  • Doldol Comprehensive School
  • One More Day for Children Rescue Centre
  • Doldol Boys High School
  • St. Francis Girls
  • Catholic Mission in Doldol
  • P.C.E.A
  • Laikipia North DCC’s Office
  • Action for Children in Conflict
  • Ilpollei Comprehensive School and Secondary

Integrating Conservation with Social Outreach

At Twala Tenebo Women Cultural Group Centre in Ilpolei, the team noted the necessity to integrate tree growing with menstrual hygiene programs. Many women and girls face challenges due to lack of sanitary products and limited knowledge. Dedan Kimathi Foundation plans to partner with the Children in Conflict Office in Doldol to provide mentorship, health education, and promote alternative rites of passage to counter Female Genital Mutilation (FGM).

Promotion of Fruit Trees for Added Value

Fruit trees were emphasized as a strategic choice to improve nutrition, offer economic benefits, and contribute to climate change mitigation—complementing indigenous and exotic tree species.

Strategic Partnership for Sustainability

To solidify conservation efforts, the Foundation’s environmental team met with the Project Manager at Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF) in Nanyuki. The two parties agreed on the importance of collaboration, environmental education, and continuous follow-up for sustainability of planted trees.

Upcoming Tree Growing Caravan

A major tree growing caravan is scheduled for Wednesday, 21st May 2025. Each of the identified sites will receive a donation of 300 tree seedlings, which will be planted and adopted by learners—both at school and at home—for sustained aftercare and climate stewardship.