Environment, Climate Change and Forestry CS Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa launched a school-based tree nursery at Wareng High School in Uasin Gishu County. The programme supports President William Ruto’s plan to grow 15 billion trees by 2032.
More Than Just Planting Trees
This initiative is about more than planting trees. It teaches students how to care for the environment. It also helps schools earn money and improve food security.
Each school nursery will grow over 100,000 tree seedlings every year. Wareng High School aims to grow 500,000 seedlings over the next three years.
70% will be fruit trees like mangoes and avocados.
30% will be indigenous and exotic trees.
Proceeds from selling the seedlings will go toward student scholarships.
A Call for Private Sector Support
“This is more than an environmental effort,” said Dr. Barasa. “It’s a way to support education and grow our economy.” She encouraged private companies to invest in forestry and agroforestry.
Uasin Gishu County is already ahead of the curve. The region has planted over 28 million trees—exceeding its target.
Leaders attending
Dr. Barasa was joined by several leaders and partners, including:
Dr. Selly Kimosop (Environment Secretary)
Charlene Ruto (Patron, SMACHS Foundation)
Elizabeth Kosgei (CEO, Mama Doing Good)
Dr. Edison Nyale (County Commissioner)
Bill Bright Kimutai Chelilim (CEO, Chelilim Foundation)
Dr. Shadrack Ngetich (Principal, Wareng High School)
Hon. Evans Kapkea (Deputy Governor, Uasin Gishu)
Vincent Rapando (Chandaria Foundation)
Daniel Juma (CEO, Global Peace Foundation Kenya)
Lucy Njoroge (CEC, Education, Uasin Gishu)
Growing Kenya’s Green Future
This project is a strong step forward for Kenya’s environmental goals. It blends education, climate action, and community empowerment. Wareng High School is setting the pace—one tree, one student, one future at a time.
