Blog
Transforming Lives in Ndhiwa: Women Leading the Way
“Before the trees, my land was dry and silent. Now, it feeds my children and sings with birds.”
These are the words of Mama Jenifer, a widow and a mother of four, who turned barren land into a thriving garden.
This transformation is part of the Forest Gardens initiative, a project by Twende Pamoja supported by Team Kenya. The initiative empowers women in Ndhiwa to combat climate change and food insecurity by integrating trees, fruits, and vegetables into their farming practices.
The project is designed to positively impact just within the first year over 12,000 people:
480 farmers trained and supported.
1,600 young people trained in schools.
2,400 family members benefiting through improved nutrition and reduced poverty.
8,000 community members gaining knowledge and awareness.
30,000 seedlings planted = up to 12,000 tonnes of CO₂ removed in 10 years.
Women have been trained in agroforestry, learning to cultivate a diverse range of crops that not only nourish their families but also provide income. From oranges and avocados to bamboo and moringa, these women are cultivating gardens that are as diverse as they are resilient.
Jane, a member of the Manywanda Primary community, shares, “I used to buy vegetables from the market. Now I sell them and get income to buy basic needs. Selling vegetables from my garden helped me pay school fees for my children.”
These women are not just growing food; they are planting the seeds of a sustainable future. Through the Forest Gardens approach, they are restoring soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and creating a legacy of environmental stewardship for future generations.
Jedida from Bongu Primary reflects, “These trees are my legacy. My children will grow up knowing the value of nurturing the land. I also used to burn charcoal. Now I grow fruit. My income is cleaner—and stronger.”
🌍 Together, We Grow
The journey doesn’t end with planting trees. It’s about community, collaboration, and shared purpose. Women like Everline in Kosewe Ward are leading the way, teaching others how to grow and thrive. “Before the training, I didn’t believe I could lead. Now, I teach other women how to grow and thrive,” she says.
Their unity is their strength. They share tools, knowledge, and encouragement. They’ve become mentors to other women, proving that when women lead, landscapes—and lives—can be transformed.
🌳 A New Chapter: Establishing Community Forest Gardens
Building on the success of individual forest gardens, we are excited to announce the establishment of community forest gardens in schools like Nyarath and Kome Primary. These model farms will serve as living classrooms, demonstrating sustainable farming practices and fostering community engagement.
At Nyarath Primary, the groundwork for a new community forest is underway. Field officers have assessed the site, evaluating soil conditions and community needs. This forest will be more than trees—it will be a space for:
Training local farmers in agroforestry and climate-smart practices
Growing diverse fruit trees to improve nutrition and income
Strengthening community bonds through shared stewardship
As Field Officer Francis aptly put it, “This land holds promise. With trees, it will hold life.”
Kome Primary School has allocated half an acre of land for learners to establish a forest garden demonstration farm. This initiative will not only teach agricultural skills but also instill a deep respect for nature and sustainability. Head Teacher Mr. Charles Obunga emphasizes, “This garden will grow more than crops—it will grow future leaders.”
These transformative changes are made possible by your generous support. Thanks to your contributions, women across the region have received training, seedlings, and tools to establish thriving Forest Gardens. Women who once struggled with food insecurity are now harvesting abundance, earning income, and inspiring others.