Building a thriving school food forest in Kenya

When Jackson Oltimpau first began working with the school food forest at Kalesuria Primary School in Kenya, he faced a number of challenges.

Pests and diseases regularly damaged crops, soil fertility was declining, and there was limited knowledge about composting and organic farming methods. Like many farmers in the region, Jackson had previously relied on conventional approaches and was searching for more sustainable solutions.

To help strengthen his skills, Jackson joined a 12-day organic farming programme at Haller’s Demonstration Farm in Mombasa.

During the training, he learned practical techniques for improving soil fertility, conserving water, producing compost, managing pests naturally, and maintaining farm records. He also gained a deeper understanding of how healthy ecosystems support productive farming.

One experience stood out above all others —

“That compost-making session, seeing how just a few simple ingredients like manure, leaves and scraps turn into something very rich.”

The training transformed the way Jackson views farming —

“I have realised that farming is not just about planting seeds and hoping. It’s about working with nature, focusing on building soil health and using natural pest control.”

Back at Kalesuria Primary School, Jackson is already putting his new knowledge into practice. His goal is to create a well-designed, productive garden that serves as both a source of food and a learning hub for students, teachers, and the wider community.

Through his leadership, the school food forest is becoming more than a garden. It is becoming a place where young people can learn practical skills, gain confidence, and discover how sustainable agriculture can improve lives.