The Unseen Forces Powering Our Conservation Journey

A Dream Takes Root
The words of Dedan Kimathi Foundation CEO Ms. Evelyn Kimathi echoed with purpose during her visit to the Kenya Tree Growers Association nursery in Gilgil: “I have a dream of growing 100 assorted fruit trees in every school in Kenya for the sake of future generations.”
This was no fleeting thought but the culmination of a deeply held desire to amplify the Foundation’s already impactful work in sustainable tree growing. Despite the immediate challenges—lacking a fruit tree nursery or the necessary funds—her unwavering determination shone through, a testament to a spirit that knows no bounds.

Six Years of Greening for Good

For six years, the Foundation has been a consistent force for good, enriching schools with a variety of indigenous and exotic trees for both ecological balance and practical benefits. Ornamental trees have also played a role in these greening endeavors. While partners have occasionally donated fruit trees, the vision now is to integrate them fully into the Foundation’s core mission.

Fruit Trees: Nourishment and Empowerment

Fruit trees are more than just providers of sustenance; they are engines of economic empowerment and vital allies in the fight against climate change due to their carbon sinking abilities.
In schools, they offer a dual blessing: a potential income stream to ease financial burdens and a crucial source of nutrition for learners from humble backgrounds—many of whom face dietary deficiencies.
This nascent journey, born from a powerful dream, is now taking its first determined steps toward fulfillment.

Laikipia Leads with Action
Meanwhile, the dedicated Laikipia environment team in Thome (Rumuruti) is doubling down on its efforts. The nursery hums with activity as they prick in exotic and indigenous tree seedlings—Casuarina equisetifolia, Markhamia lutea, and Acacia among them.
These species are carefully selected for their resilience in the Laikipia climate, promising a high rate of survival in upcoming planting seasons.

A Growing Demand, and a Plea for Support
The surging demand for tree seedlings, driven by Kenya’s ambitious 15 billion tree growing agenda, underscores a critical need for both expanded and new nurseries.

Yet, uncertainty looms over seedling producers due to the lack of clear government purchasing plans—often resulting in disheartening losses.

A Call to Action
The Dedan Kimathi Foundation earnestly calls upon the government to establish comprehensive, long-term strategies for nationwide tree growing. These must include consistent procurement of seedlings and dedicated support for private nurseries.

We also extend a heartfelt appeal to our fellow environmental champions to join hands in our greening mission. Let us nurture our land and our children’s future—one tree at a time.