A beacon of hope for communities in Tharaka Nithi County

Project update

19 Oct

Written By International Tree Foundation

Amidst a growing economic and climate crisis, tree nurseries are providing a lifeline for communities in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya.

In the dry landscape of Tharaka Nithi County, erratic rainfall and longer, harsher droughts mean that farmers are struggling to grow crops and feed their livestock. And the rising cost of living is also on taking a toll, with many farmers struggling to put food on the table.

But thanks to a new project with Rural Initiatives Development Programme and Tharaka Children & Women Welfare Programme, there is a glimmer of hope for local residents.

Together, we’re supporting communities to create tree nurseries where they can grow thousands of tree seedlings. And as with all our projects, over 150,000 trees are being planted across farms in the county.

This will not only help the farmers to create sustainable livelihoods but also support the wider community by boosting food security and building resilience to climate change.

Growing a sustainable future

The tree nurseries are a treasure trove of trees like acacia and neem, which are renowned for their resilience to drought.

And when planted across farms in Tharaka-Nithi, they’ll help improve soil fertility, reduce soil erosion and boost local biodiversity by attracting birds, bees and small mammals.

Fruit trees like mango, tamarind and orange are also being nurtured in the nurseries. These trees will help provide a sustainable source of income for small-holder farmers who are struggling to make ends it meet.

(1) RIDEP - Kenya - Tharaka Nithi -Mr Kiragu - Thiiti Mothers-2.jpg

2 - Kenya - Tharaka Nithi - RIDEP tree nursery.jpg

Seedlings grown in the nurseries will also be sold to local business and individuals in the wider community. Generating additional revenue to support future tree planting activities.

And as the demand for trees continues to grow, the nurseries will expand. This will lead to the creation of new job opportunities as more help will be needed for tasks like grafting, propagation and watering.

This project is a great example of how trees can help transform landscapes and lives. And we’re excited to see the positive impact that it will have on the community.