The Centre of Excellence features diverse units, including seedling propagation, tree nurseries, smart agritech systems, and apiculture classrooms.
The Africa Regional Representative for the Global Peace Foundation (GPF) and GPF Kenya Executive Director, Mr. Daniel Juma, joined leaders from government, civil society, and the private sector for the launch of the SMACHS Centre of Excellence and 2025-2030 strategic plan. The event, hosted by the SMACHS Foundation, highlighted a shared commitment to advancing environmentally smart agriculture, innovation, and community empowerment across Kenya.
The launch highlighted a timely opportunity to reinforce the Global Peace Foundation’s development and service work, which focuses on enhancing community resilience through environmental stewardship, among other areas. GPF has long advocated for practical and values-driven approaches to sustainable development, including community engagement in tree planting, conservation initiatives, and environmentally resilient livelihoods. The establishment of the SMACHS Centre of Excellence complements this work by providing a space where communities can learn, practice, and adopt sustainable methods that protect the environment while improving economic and social well-being.
In her keynote address, Ms. Charlene Ruto, Founder and CEO of SMACHS Foundation, emphasized the importance of transformative partnerships in driving localized and continental aspirations
The Centre, developed through a partnership between the SMACHS Foundation and its collaborators, serves as a living classroom for environmentally smart agricultural practices. Through seedling propagation, tree nurseries, smart agrotechnical systems, and apiculture, the Centre equips families and young people with the tools and knowledge to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Its approach mirrors GPF’s belief that sustainable development grows when communities take responsibility for their environment and work together to strengthen local systems.
In her keynote remarks, Ms. Charlene Ruto, the founder and CEO of the SMACHS Foundation, emphasized collaboration as the driving force behind long-term progress. She noted recent efforts by the Foundation to strengthen cooperation among governments, civil society, and development partners to support the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and Kenya’s Vision 2030.
“Together, let us build an Africa that is prosperous, inclusive, and people-driven,” she said. “This Centre of Excellence is a testament to what collaboration and innovation can achieve.”
Event attendees participating in seed propagation
Revenue generated from the Centre’s farm activities will be reinvested to sustain its programs, ensuring continuity and scaling of impact. This model reflects the same principle that guides GPF’s development and service initiatives: that empowerment begins with practical, locally led solutions that uplift families, strengthen communities, and preserve the environment.
The Global Peace Foundation recognizes the SMACHS Centre of Excellence as an important partner in expanding community-based environmental action. By integrating innovation, environmental resilience, and community empowerment, the Centre reinforces GPF’s mission to promote responsible care for the earth and build thriving, peaceful communities.
