Free fruit trees to benefit 12,000 schools in Kiambu

Kabete sub-county Director of Education James Kimotho (centre) with students from Kiarangari Boys, during fruit trees planting in the school. [George Njung'e, Standard]

Some 12,000 public primary and secondary schools in Kiambu will receive 50 fruit trees each as part of a new initiative to enhance school environments and reduce food expenses.

James Kimotho, the Kabete sub-county Director of Education, launched the project at Kirangari High School.

He said the fruit trees will improve the aesthetic value of schools and provide fresh produce for students.

"The value of fruits in human life cannot be underestimated. It is a critical component in health and growth," said Kimotho.

He added that although over 42,000 trees were planted in Kabete as part of a previous campaign, few were fruit trees.

The project is a collaboration between Nature Plan Kenya and Fruity Schools Africa.

Kennedy Benja from Fruity Schools Africa thanked the Ministry of Education for its support, linking the initiative to President William Ruto's tree-planting campaign.

"Mother nature is dying. The effects of climate change have hit the world greatly, and Kenya is no exception," said Benja.

He noted that some children have never had access to fruits and that the project will help improve their health.

Charles Nyakundi, head of Nature Plan Kenya, said involving students in planting and caring for the trees is crucial.

"There is no better way of having this project kick-off than involving young boys and girls," he noted.

James Mwangi, head teacher at Kirangari High School, supported the project saying, "We embrace the project and are grateful that the partnership between the Ministry of Education and these two development partners has made it possible."