In 2013, Global Roots initiated a critical program in Mtito Andei, Kenya, to address the nutritional needs of school children. Mtito Andei, situated along the Nairobi-Mombasa Highway and near Tsavo East and Tsavo West National Parks, faced significant challenges, including inadequate water supplies, widespread poverty, and high rates of AIDS and HIV.
Global Roots marked a major achievement by establishing the first Children’s Garden in the Matulani School District. Despite having dedicated schools and teachers, many children struggled with poor health and malnutrition, which negatively impacted their school attendance. The introduction of the Children’s Garden was designed to alleviate these issues.
Impact and Transformation
- Improved nutrition: the Children’s Gardens provided crucial meals, addressing malnutrition and supporting children on Anti-Retroviral medications. Proper nutrition was essential for the effectiveness of these medications.
- Increased school attendance: the provision of meals led to a notable increase in school attendance, reaching an average of 90% in districts with our gardens.
- Enhanced academic performance: healthier students achieved higher exam scores, improved matriculation rates, and better focus in their studies.
How It Worked
- Community engagement: Global Roots developed relationships with the local community to assess needs and strengths.
- Site selection: collaborations with local school administrators ensured suitable sites for the Children’s Gardens.
- Garden package: schools were equipped with a comprehensive package, including a greenhouse, hen house, and rabbit farm.
- Construction and training: we provided materials, worked with the community on construction, and offered training to ensure the gardens’ sustainability.
Key Figures
- Program launch: 2013
- Location: Matulani School District, Mtito Andei, Kenya
- Average school attendance: 90% in districts with Children’s Gardens
- Components: greenhouse, hen house, rabbit farm
Current Status
The Children’s Gardens program is currently on hold. While it made significant strides in improving health and education in Mtito Andei, the program is paused due to funding and operational constraints. We remain hopeful that with renewed support, the program can be revived to continue its mission of enhancing child nutrition and educational outcomes in the future.
Last updated: August 1, 2024