Tongaren, Bungoma – 13 June, 2026
The Global Peace Foundation Kenya, in partnership with the Chandaria Foundation, officially launched the Chandaria Tree Nursery at St. Peter’s Senior School, Ndalu, located in Tongaren Constituency, Bungoma County.
The tree nursery is among the twenty-three (23) nurseries established under the Chandaria Tree Nursery Initiative since 2020. The initiative supports the Government of Kenya’s ambitious goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2032, while promoting environmental stewardship, community service, volunteerism, and sustainable development within learning institutions.
The nursery serves as a model of environmental conservation and sustainability. It is designed not only to contribute to national forest cover restoration efforts but also to diversify school revenue streams and enhance student nutrition through the cultivation of assorted fruit trees. Currently, the nursery hosts approximately 60,000 seedlings, comprising 60% indigenous tree species, 30% fruit trees, and 10% exotic tree species.
Some of the tree species being propagated include; Grevillea, Passion Fruit, Cordia africana, White Guava, Whistling Pine, and Senna spectabilis. These species have been carefully selected to support biodiversity conservation, climate resilience, environmental restoration, and food security.
St. Peter’s Senior School, Ndalu, has a student population of 797 learners and 34 teachers, making it a strategic institution for nurturing environmental responsibility among young people and inspiring community participation in conservation efforts.
The launch ceremony brought together distinguished leaders from government, education, and the private sector, underscoring the collective commitment towards environmental sustainability and national development.
The event was graced by:
Ms. Biliah Murumba – Principal, St. Peter’s Senior School, Ndalu, Dr. Walter Ongeti, CS FKIM – Chief Executive Officer, Kenya Accreditation Service (KENAS), Dr. Juma Mukhwana, CBS – Principal Secretary, State Department for Industry, Ms. Jessy Maruti Kiveu – Chief Executive Officer, ICT Authority, Mr. Aggrey C. Masai – Director, National Registration Bureau
Mr. Ambrose Waswa – Sub-County Director of Education, Mr. Vincent Ayako – Youth Leadership Development and Environment Program Manager, Global Peace Foundation Kenya, Ms. Faith Wataka – MRM, Bungoma County
The launch of the Chandaria Tree Nursery at St. Peter’s Senior School, Ndalu, marks another significant milestone in advancing Kenya’s environmental conservation agenda.
Through strategic partnerships, youth engagement, and community-driven action, the initiative continues to create lasting environmental, social, and economic impact while empowering future generations to become champions of sustainable development