• She has been undertaking the initiative through her organisation, Perur Rays of Hope.
• The women are paid a stipend for the seedlings they have raised.
Image: FILE
A high school principal in West Pokot county has mobilised women’s groups to raise more than 50,000 tree seedlings.
The seedlings will be ready for planting during the April-May rain season.
St Elizabeth Girl’s Morpus High School principal Caroline Menach’s efforts were recognised with the award of Order of the Grand Warrior (OGW) and Head of State’s Commendation (HSC) a few years ago.
She has brought change through her organisation, Perur Rays of Hope.
The women are paid a stipend for the seedlings they nurtured.
Menach, a brand name in West Pokot, said she wants to contribute to the government’s bid to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.
“My decision to have the women educated on tree-related matters was influenced by the presidential directive to plant 15 billion trees by the year 2032,” she said.
Women should take the lead in planting trees, since they are the primary users of firewood.
“At the Murpus community, 50 women have been educated on the techniques of transplanting tree seedlings,” she said.
She initiated the project after learning that a significant portion of West Pokot, including the Murpus region where her school is situated, is semi-arid.
Menach said women have the capacity to safeguard the environment, if given the opportunity. “Aiding a woman is equivalent to supporting the entire community as it ensures her children receive education and maintain good health,” she said.
Through support from the International Tree Foundation (ITF), Perur Rays of Hope and Lab Women Group organisations plan to raise 100,000 seedlings.
Morpus assistant chief Joseph Loriso praised Menach for bringing the women together to undertake the initiative. “Caroline’s efforts in providing space for a tree nursery within the school compound are highly appreciated. Your work is commendable and we are grateful for your contribution to the community,” he said.
ITF Western region programmes officer Joshua Muthambuki said they have partnered with the Perur Rays of Hope in “Trees for Livelihood Support Climate Project” to plant 50,000 tree seedlings this year .
Menach has also been championing the education of girls whose parents are unable to meet their needs.