People living in Maasailand and Machakos districts of Kenya face starvation each year due to extremely difficult growing conditions and a harsh environment leading to crippling poverty. CMA’s Students Teachers Environmental Program (STEP) is teaching communities in these areas the importance of environmental conservation and techniques of growing food in the arid environments. This is in an effort to combat desertification as well as create income-generating activities.

STEP uses schools as entry points into these communities. CMA had reached hundreds of schools training teachers in agricultural techniques, planting and care of tree seedlings. The teachers in turn start tree nurseries and gardens in schools where children learn these techniques. Over the years, farmers, schools and neighboring homesteads have reported an increase in food production and income, a vital step towards overcoming poverty and achieving sustainable development.