Greening the Plains and Empowering Girls: A Day with Esupetai and Naretu Schools
Tucked away in the stunning Maji Moto/Naroosura plains of Narok County lies Esupetai Comprehensive School, a government-run institution that serves 640 students, 269 of them girls, with 16 teachers. Nearby is Naretu Academy, a small, eco-conscious school run by Sabore’s Well, a nonprofit dedicated to providing water and education to the community. With 152 students (77 of them girls), Naretu stands as a vibrant green haven of learning.
Recently, the Nayiari team, led by our chairperson Sheila, spent an inspiring day with students, teachers, and board members from both schools. The visit was more than just a community outreach, it was a celebration of growth, learning, and dignity.
Tree Planting with Purpose
In a beautiful collaboration with the students, we planted over 350 trees, each one a promise for the future. The schools’ environmental clubs took the lead, teaching us the value of trees in combating climate change, improving air quality, and sustaining life. It was hands-on, educational, and deeply moving to see young people leading the way in environmental conservation.
Talking Periods, Ending Stigma
In honor of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2025, we held open and inclusive conversations about menstruation with both boys and girls. It was powerful to witness students like Solomon and Maggy confidently demonstrate how to use and dispose of sanitary pads properly.
This session wasn’t just about hygiene, it was about breaking the silence, ending shame, and fostering dignity. To support the girls, we distributed seven bales of sanitary pads, enough to support about 120 girls for the school term. We also shared some Nayiari goodies to encourage and uplift the brave voices that made the day so special.
The Need for Safe Boarding Facilities
The challenges faced by students at Esupetai are immense. Many walk up to 30 kilometers each day, navigating wildlife and unsafe routes. Poverty and water scarcity add further strain. Some students now stay at school during the week, sleeping in classrooms turned dormitories and using makeshift bathroom sheds.
For Maasai children, especially girls, boarding facilities aren’t a luxury, they’re a necessity. Safe accommodation can protect them from harm, give them more time to study, and help them stay in school longer.
That’s why Nayiari is working closely with County and National governments to push for proper, dignified boarding facilities at Esupetai. Every child deserves a warm place to sleep and a safe space to dream.
Moving Forward
This visit reminded us of the power of community and the importance of meeting children where they are with empathy, action, and sustainable solutions. Whether it’s through planting a tree or normalizing conversations around periods, we’re committed to walking alongside these students and their schools every step of the way.
