WEST POKOT COUNTY — In an innovative approach to environmental conservation, a high school principal in West Pokot County has mobilized local women’s groups to raise over 50,000 tree seedlings. The initiative, led by Caroline Menach, Principal of St. Elizabeth Girls’ High School-Morpus and a recipient of the Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) and Head of State Commendations (HSC), is part of a broader effort to combat global warming and restore the planet’s “lungs” through reforestation.

According to Kenya News Agency, her organization, Perur Rays of Hope, has enlisted small women’s groups in the endeavor, offering them a stipend for the seedlings they raise. This effort not only raises awareness about environmental conservation but also demonstrates the tangible benefits of tree planting. The initiative aligns with the Kenyan government’s ambitious goal to plant 15 billion trees by 2032, as directed by President William Ruto.

Menach’s work extends beyond her educational duties, reflecting her commitment to empowering girls and women in her community. By involving women in tree-planting activities, she seeks to leverage their role as primary users of firewood and their reliability in nurturing planted trees to maturity. The project has educated approximately 50 women on transplanting techniques and the importance of tree care, aiming to provide them with sustainable income sources.

In the past four months, the women involved have successfully raised 10,000 tree seedlings of various species within the school premises. The initiative not only focuses on indigenous tree species but also introduces exotic ones to the semi-arid region of Murpus, addressing challenges such as erosion and deforestation that have historically plagued the area.

Menach’s efforts have garnered support from the International Tree Foundation (ITF), enabling the achievement of raising 60,000 tree seedlings, with a target of cultivating 100,000 seedlings. This partnership aims to enhance the ecosystem and support economic activities like beekeeping and agroforestry among the community.

The initiative has also had a positive impact on the students of St. Elizabeth Girls’ High School-Morpus, who have been actively involved in the tree nursery activities, learning the significance of environmental preservation firsthand. This collaborative effort underscores the importance of community engagement in environmental conservation and the empowerment of women as key agents of change.