In the vast, sun-scorched landscape of Marsabit County, where dry winds sweep across the land and dust storms are a common sight, Karare Mixed Secondary School was once just another patch of earth with little to no trees. But today, thanks to the vision of Alyaro—a dedicated teacher—the collective effort of his students, and the support of Asante Africa Foundation, the school is transforming into a green oasis, one sapling at a time.

The Barren Beginning

A year ago, the school grounds were described as harsh and unwelcoming. According to witnesses, the relentless sun rendered outdoor activities unbearable while dust filled the air, and the cracked earth appeared resistant to sustaining life. Students reported spending classes sweating as they observed dust swirling outside, with many expressing a sense that the land itself had abandoned hope.

Alyaro viewed the situation not as an unchangeable circumstance but as a challenge requiring action. He stated that the desire for an improved environment necessitated more than complaints—it demanded concrete steps.

Guided by environmental lessons and mentorship from the Asante Africa Foundation, He proposed an ambitious vision to students: 

What if we planted our own trees? What if we could change our own future?

The Turning Point

With limited resources but unwavering determination, Alyaro and his students began their mission in mid-2024. Water was scarce, and the dry soil seemed to reject every sapling. But they refused to give up. Students collected discarded bottles for drip irrigation, reused wastewater, and even carried water from home to nurture the young trees.

“At first, people doubted us,” Alyaro admits. “They said trees couldn’t grow here, that it was a waste of time. But we kept going.” Slowly, the seedlings took root. Each small green shoot was a victory—proof that change was possible.

The Green Transformation

Today, the school is a bit unrecognizable.The air is fresher, the grounds are cooler, and students have shade where they can study and relax. 

“Before, we avoided the outdoors—now, we take pride in it,” says a Form 3 student. 

This transformation is part of a larger movement towards environmental sustainability, one that Asante Africa Foundation actively supports. By equipping young minds with leadership skills and fostering initiatives like tree planting, we are empowering students to become change-makers in their communities.

The impact goes beyond the school. Neighboring communities have taken notice, with some families starting their own tree-planting initiatives. 

“People see our trees and ask, ‘How did you do it?’ Now, we teach them,” says Alyaro with pride.

Looking at the before-and-after photos of Karare Mixed Secondary School, the difference is striking—not just in the landscape, but in the hope shining in the students’ eyes. They are no longer just learners; they are environmental champions, nurturing a greener tomorrow for Marsabit.