Pupils of Mukarara Comprehensive School in Muguru Ward, Kangema Constituency, are set to benefit from improved nutrition and a greener learning environment following a fruit tree-planting initiative led by the Kamau Wairuri Foundation.
The Foundation, working alongside the school community on Monday planted more than 100 fruit tree seedlings within the school compound, establishing what it described as the first school orchard in Kangema.
Speaking on behalf of the foundation, Kenneth Muraguri said the initiative was aimed at enhancing the dietary needs of learners while promoting environmental conservation and sustainable development within schools.
“Planting of fruit trees within school compounds will improve the dietary provision for the pupils, improving health outcomes,” said Muraguri.
He noted that the foundation recognizes the importance of investing in projects that support learners beyond academic work, adding that education goes hand in hand with initiatives that improve the overall well-being of students.
Muraguri reiterated the foundation’s commitment to supporting education in Kangema, emphasizing that learning extends beyond the classroom and includes initiatives that improve the lives of learners.
“We are passionate about education and recognize that learning goes beyond the classroom. We will continue investing in projects that improve the lives of learners across schools in Kangema,” he said.
Muraguri said the Foundation will work with all local schools and establish orchards on their compounds.
Deputy Principal of Mukarara Comprehensive School, Rose Kinyua, lauded the Kamau Wairuri Foundation for donating the fruit tree seedlings, describing the project as a valuable investment that will benefit both current and future learners.
Ms Kinyua said the orchard will play an important role in improving the students’ diet by providing a sustainable source of fruits while also creating a practical learning environment where learners can understand the importance of environmental conservation and agriculture.
She added that the school will ensure the seedlings are well tended to benefit generations of students who will pass through the institution.
“The initiative is expected to provide a sustainable source of fruits for the school in coming years, contributing to better nutrition among learners while also instilling environmental stewardship values,” she stressed.
The tree-planting exercise forms part of ongoing efforts by the Kamau Wairuri Foundation to support educational institutions through projects that enhance learning, nutrition, and student welfare. Some of the fruit tree seedlings planted during the occasion include pixie oranges, mango, avocado, passion and pawpaw.
by Bernard Munyao
