How Del Monte Is Cultivating Minds, Not Just Pineapples

Malcom Forbes said that “Education’s purpose is to replace an empty mind with an open one.”  John Dewey, on the other hand, said, “Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.”

There is no doubt that education is power, a key that gives hope to the hopeless, opens doors to millions, and encourages minds to think beyond. There is no better way to empower communities than through education.

For years, Del Monte Kenya Limited, renowned for its pineapple farms in Thika and Murang’a, has quietly become a cornerstone of educational development in central Kenya. Beyond its agricultural prowess, the company has invested significantly in nurturing minds, reflecting a deep-seated commitment to uplifting the community.

Unlike others, who donate to schools, take photos, hang billboards, and talk about “empowering the vulnerable in society,” and then disappear, Del Monte Kenya moves with the institutions it has invested in, allowing them to run smoothly with tangible developmental results.

Del Monte Kenya’s educational journey began in 1960 with the establishment of Kihunguro Primary School, which has since educated more than 3,000 students. Over the years, the company expanded its educational initiatives, supporting three additional primary schools and eight nursery schools, providing early childhood education to the region.

In 2010, Del Monte Kenya inaugurated its own Del Monte Mixed Secondary School within one of its farms, marking the first community school in Mitubiri Ward, Murang’a County. Collectively, these institutions have benefited over 12,000 students in more than 10 years, and the numbers keep expanding.

Del Monte Kenya’s commitment to education extends beyond infrastructure. The company ensures that schools have access to essential amenities, including free piped water, firewood for cooking, and furnished staff offices. They also maintain roads leading to schools, ensuring accessibility during all seasons, and cover electricity bills. Furthermore, Del Monte Kenya provides housing for both teaching and non-teaching staff, as well as providing emergency medical services for students and teachers, with provisions for transfers to nearby hospitals when necessary.

Beyond classroom academics, the continuous interaction between students and Del Monte Kenya staff offers career guidance, inspiring many to pursue professions in agronomy and mechanical engineering, aligning with the company’s operations. At the same time, Del Monte Kenya’s educational initiatives are inclusive, benefiting not only the children of its employees but also those from neighboring communities such as Umoja, Gichagi, and Kilimambogo. The company has also supported other primary schools in the area by constructing classrooms and sports facilities, including basketball and volleyball courts.

At Ndula Secondary School in Ngoliba Ward, Thika East sub-county, Del Monte’s contributions are particularly noteworthy. The company donated land for the school’s establishment and provides sanitary pads for female students, ensuring they can attend school with dignity, fighting period poverty and stigmatization. The school’s principal, Beatrice Wanjau, has always expressed gratitude for the support from the company and hopes for continued collaboration to further improve the school’s facilities and the students’ welfare.

At Del Monte Mixed Secondary School, Del Monte Kenya donated a school bus to the institution to be used for various activities by both teachers and students. “The bus has come in handy at a time when there are a lot of activities that require students’ transport, including games and educational tours,” said Mr. George Wanyoike Ndung’u, the School Principal.

There is no doubt that Del Monte Kenya’s educational endeavors align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4, which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. The company has been addressing various needs within the educational ecosystem, from providing basic amenities to maintaining infrastructure.

Del Monte Kenya Limited’s commitment to education in Thika and Murang’a transcends corporate social responsibility; it represents a profound investment in the region’s future. The provision of comprehensive support to educational institutions not only enhances academic outcomes but also promotes sustainable practices and social equity.

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