School and Eco-Farm

Kenya

Many years of high fertility rates has resulted in Kenya’s distinct youth bulge. People aged under 30 years comprise approximately 60% of the population, of which the majority are not gainfully employed after school. Overcrowding, teacher absenteeism and learning material shortages are endemic throughout the education system and have contributed to a 75% dropout rate before completing primary education.

In contrast to this context, our partner school in the Western region is reaching for excellence. They have increased teacher-student ratios, provided boarding scholarships for orphaned children, and constructed new facilities including a library, computer lab, sports field and playground. A concurrent eco-farm project has been established to not only feed the children regular lunchtime meals, but also equip them with job-ready skills for a prosperous future. The farm has diversified produce including maize fields, a vegetable garden and a chicken enclosure. Excess produce will be sold at local markets to supplement the school’s income.

Key Areas of Expenditure:

• Land purchase for farm
• Livestock and horticultural running costs
• Installation of well, pump, header tank and irrigation channels
• School and boarding facilities construction
• Curriculum development
• Small business and financial management training