By Aaron Muthomi
Dol Dol, Laikipia County — Under the scorching sun and across the dry, rugged terrain of the Dol Dol valley, learners at Dol Dol Primary School took part in a major environmental and education-focused initiative as the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI), with support from the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF), led a large-scale tree-planting exercise to mark the International Day of Education, under the theme: “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education.”
Despite the harsh climate, the atmosphere was filled with hope and determination as young learners, volunteers, and partners worked side by side to plant trees — symbols of growth, resilience, and a greener future. KEFRI donated 1,000 tree seedlings, linking education with environmental conservation and sustainable development. The initiative formed part of the “Pathfinder @ 75” Tree Planting Campaign, a long-term programme encouraging young people to care for creation and serve their communities.
The activity was spearheaded by the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church through the Pathfinder movement under the leadership of Kenya Conference Youth Leader, Pastor Evans Mose. Organisers said the goal was to nurture environmental stewardship among learners while celebrating the role of education in shaping responsible, compassionate, and community-minded citizens.
The outreach extended beyond tree planting. In a gesture that touched many families, the SDA Church donated food supplies, clothing, and books, bringing smiles to learners and relief to households facing hardship. The Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) provided transportation, enabling volunteers and partners to overcome the long distance and challenging roads to reach the remote Laikipia community.
The event also marked the fourth collaboration under the “Heart to Touch a Heart” school greening and support initiative led by Teens Voice Africa, in partnership with the SDA Church, KDF, and KEFRI. Previous outreach efforts have included support for schools in Turkana, expanding the programme’s impact in promoting both education and environmental care in underserved communities.
Stakeholders noted that education extends beyond the classroom, emphasizing that environmental action, social support, and moral development are essential in raising well-rounded young people capable of transforming their communities.
The initiative highlights the growing role of partnerships between faith-based organisations, government institutions, and community groups in advancing education and environmental conservation in Kenya — even in some of the country’s most challenging environments.
Wow, great initiative. True education goes beyond classroom walls.