KCID improves CBC implementation by engaging students in tree planting

Speaking at Ligisa Secondary School, Prof Ong’ondo said they aim to plant at least 100,000 trees during the current rainy season through the programme. In Homa Bay County, where the project was launched, the KICD plans to plant 25,000 trees in 25 selected schools.

Prof Ong’ondo said the initiative aims to equip learners with the knowledge to apply their skills in solving local problems.

“CBC focuses on nurturing learners’ skills and talents. We have introduced this programme to encourage students to grow trees,” Prof Ong’ondo said.

As part of the training, students are also encouraged to plant trees at home.

“Giving a student trees to adopt both at school and at home helps them grow into responsible citizens who embrace a culture of environmental conservation,” he added.

Prof Ong’ondo noted that the programme also seeks to address the challenges posed by climate change.

He expressed concerns that climate change has led to unpredictable weather patterns, which, in turn, affect crop production.

“Climate change causes erratic weather conditions, impacting agriculture. This project will help mitigate some of these challenges,” he said.

Khaemba said the project will also enhance nutrition in schools through the planting of fruit trees.

She explained that 30 per cent of the trees planted in schools will be fruit-bearing.

“Trees provide many economic benefits. They can be sold for income, but more importantly, fruit trees will improve nutrition in schools by providing free fruits to students,” Khaemba said.

She added that trees will also create a more conducive learning environment in schools, particularly during hot weather.

“Our county experiences very high temperatures during the dry season. Trees will provide shade, allowing teachers to conduct lessons in a cooler environment,” she said.

Cheluget emphasised that the project will help increase forest cover in the county, which currently stands at 3.4 per cent, moving it closer to the national target of 10 per cent.

“Encouraging students to plant trees fosters a culture of environmental conservation. This initiative will extend to villages as students implement the practice at home,” Cheluget said.