Over 30 Schools Partner with CAF to Promote Environmental Conservation

Change Africa Foundation (CAF) is working with schools to embed climate responsibility at the grassroots — and it’s already bearing fruit.

Through its Environmental Protection and Conservation Programme, more than 30 schools across Siaya County have joined a growing campaign to plant indigenous trees, establish kitchen gardens, and integrate environmental education into the classroom.

“We’re not waiting for international solutions,” says Braxton Otieno, CAF’s Treasurer. “Our children are leading the way — and inspiring their families too.”

So far, the programme has helped plant over 10,000 trees in schools and surrounding communities. Students are running eco-clubs, spearheading clean-up days, and initiating home-based garden projects.

Teachers have incorporated climate-related lessons into their teaching, helping learners understand the link between environmental action and public health, food security, and local economies.

CAF provides seedlings, gardening tools, and basic training. The foundation also partners with forestry officers and elders to foster traditional knowledge and promote intergenerational learning.

“We’ve seen parents starting kitchen gardens after their children brought the message home,” says Dorothy Awuor, Board Member. “This isn’t just education — it’s transformation.”

The initiative complements CAF’s school feeding efforts and livelihood programmes, aiming to create sustainable, climate-smart communities that begin in the classroom.

CAF plans to expand the programme to neighbouring counties in 2026, and is exploring regional partnerships to recognise high-performing eco-schools at national forums.