Food for Life in Kenya: Driving inclusion, food security, and youth empowerment

In Kenya, the Green Skills Rising Project is doing far more than promoting environmental conservation; it is restoring hope, dignity, and opportunity for young people, especially those often left behind.

Launched in June 2025 and running through December, the initiative aimed to equip young people with practical skills and the right attitudes to protect the environment, adopt sustainable agriculture, and embrace healthy consumption. What has emerged is a powerful movement for inclusion and purpose

For many young people in Nyandarua County, especially those living with disabilities who are often excluded from traditional education, the Food for Life project has become a gateway to participation and possibility. In this community, one young Scout is bringing that vision to life.

Nancy, a Scout living with a disability, was inspired to join Scouting after her home was destroyed by fire and Scouts came to support her family. Moved by their compassion and service, she chose to become a Scout herself.

Drawing on her Food for Life training, Nancy turned that inspiration into action by establishing a special needs Scout group at a local school. Determined to give back and create meaningful opportunities for children often excluded from academic activities, she proposed starting a school garden at a nearby primary School.

With persistence and belief in her idea, Nancy secured a small piece of land at the school and began working with pupils with diverse disabilities, including cerebral palsy and physical impairments. Together, they grow onions using organic farming techniques, selling the produce to support the school feeding programme and improve nutrition.

What began as a simple garden has grown into a powerful space for inclusion, learning, and transformation. The impact goes far beyond agriculture. Pupils who previously had limited engagement in school activities are now actively involved, learning new skills, building confidence, and contributing to their community. The initiative has also changed how teachers see their pupils. The deputy headteacher, Mr Paul Kariuki, shared:

Nancy’s leadership has not only empowered the pupils but also inspired the entire school community. The group is now saving towards purchasing Scout uniforms, as many members come from disadvantaged backgrounds and cannot afford them. One pupil shared their excitement about being part of the project and their hope of one day owning a Scout uniform, something that would give them a strong sense of belonging and pride.

For Nancy, the project represents more than success; it represents a shift in how ability is understood.

Her words reflect the true spirit of Scouting: empowering every young person to realise their potential and contribute to society. The initiative has also gained recognition from community leaders. Ms Patience Manga, a local government official and Scout, highlighted that such efforts are bringing communities together, fostering inclusion, and strengthening food security for those who need it most.

The Green Skills Rising Project shows that when young people are equipped with the right skills and support, they become powerful agents of change, not only for themselves but for their communities.

This story from Nyandarua is just one example of a wider impact across Kenya. Through initiatives like Green Skills Rising, Scouting is reaching marginalised communities, nurturing resilience, and building a generation of young people who are confident, capable, and committed to shaping a better world.

The Green Skills Rising Project, made possible through the support of the World Scout Foundation and UNICEF, is part of the World Scouting Champions for Nature initiative.