In 2013, as part of our focus on the environment, we started tree planting exercises in Marereni and Gongoni. Over 841,211 casuarina plants have already been planted in Marereni and Gongoni. We have also planted over 1,650 bamboo trees in Gongoni.
We have also established an Out-Grower program with local farmers to grow trees. We currently have more than 86 local farmers who have been engaged. The seedlings are provided by us. Until now, over 7,404 casuarina trees have been planted by the Out-Grower farmers.
We have also managed to plant more trees this year by making an agreement with Marereni Primary and Secondary schools to plant casuarina trees along their boundaries. We have planted approximately 1,940 casuarina trees within the schools’ compounds.
Through the tree planting program, we have also engaged the locals (both individuals and saccos) in maintaining casuarina tree nurseries. We provide seeds and seedling bags to the farmers, and when the seedlings mature for transplanting we buy them, there by providing a source of income to the community.
