Supermarket chain Quickmart has embarked on a project to improve education standards in Kajiado County through farming.
Kilimo Shuleni Initiative seeks to address challenges faced by communities in the county, particularly those exacerbated by the recent drought, which was the worst in four decades.
The initiative will aim at empowering schools to cultivate food crops and fruit trees, providing sustainable meals for students, and improving academic performance in the long run.
"Kilimo Shuleni is designed to fortify food security in public secondary schools, especially those in semi-arid areas in Kajiado County,” a statement from the Supermarket said.
The supermarket said the initiative will enhance food security through school farms; and ensure students receive the nutrition necessary for academic excellence.
It added that the move will encourage community engagement and ownership in sustainable food production apart from promoting gender equality and inclusivity.
“Quickmart is dedicated to making a meaningful impact on the lives of those in Kajiado County. With a focus on education and sustainable farming, we are committed to creating a prosperous future for these communities,” the retailer stated.
The supermarket noted that the initiative aligns with various United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, including quality education, zero hunger, climate action, responsible consumption and production, and decent work and economic growth.
“Students will also gain practical agricultural education. They will be equipped with valuable farming skills and a strong foundation for further studies in agriculture or related fields,” the statement added.
Quickmart is a 59-branch supermarket chain established in Nakuru in 2006, with current operations spread out across 15 counties with a total workforce of over 6,000 employees.