EMPOWERING WOMEN

 Why This is Our Theme of the Year

At The SOL Foundation, we believe that empowering women is not just an initiative—it’s a necessity for building stronger families, communities, and societies. This year, we are dedicating our efforts to women’s empowerment and gender equality, making it the central theme of our work.

Through our #SOLEmpowerment initiative, we aim to uplift, support, and create opportunities for women to thrive in all aspects of life. 

What is Women’s Empowerment?

Women’s empowerment is about ensuring that women have the tools, resources, and opportunities to reach their full potential. It means giving women:

✅ Access to Education – So they can build knowledge and skills for a better future.

✅ Economic Independence – So they can support themselves and their families.

✅ A Voice in Leadership – So they can shape policies and decisions that affect their lives.

✅ Protection and Rights – So they can live free from violence and discrimination.

When women are empowered, entire communities benefit—children receive better care, economies grow, and societies become more just and inclusive.

Why We Chose Women’s Empowerment as Our Theme of the Year

Women around the world continue to face barriers that limit their potential. Despite progress, gender inequality remains a major issue in education, the workplace, leadership, and personal safety. Here are some of the key challenges women face today:

🔹 Limited Access to Education – Millions of girls still lack access to quality education due to poverty, cultural norms, or conflict.

🔹 Economic Inequality – Women earn less than men for the same work, have fewer business opportunities, and face greater financial instability.

🔹 Gender-Based Violence – Many women experience violence, harassment, and abuse, often with limited legal protection.

🔹 Lack of Representation in Leadership – Women remain underrepresented in government, business, and decision-making roles.

By choosing Women’s Empowerment as our theme this year, we are committing to raising awareness, creating solutions, and taking action to address these challenges.

Introducing #SOLEmpowerment: A Movement for Change

At The SOL Foundation, we are launching #SOLEmpowerment, a key initiative designed to support women’s growth, independence, and success. This initiative includes:

🌟 Educational Programs 

🌟 Entrepreneurship Support

🌟 Community Engagement 

🌟 Advocacy & Awareness 

Through #SOLEmpowerment, we aim to create real, lasting impact—not just for women today, but for future generations.

Join Us in Empowering Women

Women’s empowerment is not just a women’s issue—it is a global issue that requires everyone’s involvement. Whether you are a woman striving for change, an ally supporting equality, or a leader with the power to make a difference, your role is crucial.

💡 How You Can Get Involved:

✔ Share stories of empowered women to inspire others.

✔ Support initiatives that provide education and resources for women.

✔ Mentor and uplift women in your community.

✔ Advocate for policies that promote gender equality.

Together, we can turn empowerment into action and ensure that every woman has the opportunity to succeed.

This is more than just our theme for the year—it’s a movement. And we invite you to be a part of it.

🔹 Follow us and join the conversation using #SOLEmpowernment!

🔹 Let’s make 2025 the year of women’s empowerment.

.......................................................................................................................................

Website: https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesol_foundation/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thesolfoundationorg/

X: https://x.com/the_solf_org

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesolfoundation

Blog: https://the-sol-foundation.blogspot.com/

Email: coordinator@the-sol-foundation.org

Take a look at some of the comments from our Instagram Platforms: 

@theadventglobal 

"To me it means when a woman is finally casually independent and able to make her own decisions without any pressure and be sustainable."

@flaviu.soul

"Love and respect to women"

@lavingdelegend

"Where a woman can be a voice of other women out there and can also be independent."

@yvmi_02 

"Being provided with the platform to express themselves.

@zainab_akadir 

"Sense of self worth" 

@_real_rizwana 

"When a woman is financially independent"

HOW YOU CAN VOLUNTEER

In our last chapter we had an in-depth discussion about what volunteering is. In this chapter let us look at the ways in which you can volunteer. 

There are several ways to volunteer to protect our environment including volunteering your time, your finances and simply creating awareness through education. 

There are tons of ways that you can add to this growing movement of environmental action which includes volunteering your time to causes that help the planet. Here are some: 

1. Plant trees.

2. Protect national parks and reserves and keep them clean. 

3. Host a cleanup whether its for a park, beach or the neighborhood!

4. Volunteer to help out wildlife rescue and rehabilitation programs doing animal care or administrative work.

5. Volunteer at animal shelters. 

6. Join a movement or volunteer of legitimate environmental organizations like the The SOL Foundation!

7. Become a food waste warrior by volunteering your time at the food bank or with organizations that center around the same theme. 

8. Pitch in at a community garden. Community gardens are shared plots of land used to grow fruit, vegetables and other plants for personal use, or in some cases for food charities, while building a strong sense of community and lifelong learning. You can also donate to The SOL Foundation school garden program : https://www.the-sol-foundation.org/school-garden-project.html

9. Volunteer your time with organizations that help that save water and in keeping water clean. 

Let us take a look at what some of the feedback from our Instagram family: 

@aisha_bagha

"Reuse, reduce, recycle." 

@rewireyourmindsetstrategy 

"Donate time, money or resources."

EUCALYPTUS

 Eucalyptus has over 600species, a rapidly growing plant which attain a great height. In our school gardens we have planted the Mallee Variety. 

The term Mallee is used describe various species of trees or woody plants, mainly of the genus Eucalyptus, which grow with multiple stems springing from an underground bulbous woody structure called a lignotuber, or Mallee root, usually to a height of no more than 10 m (33 ft). Over 50 percent of eucalypt species are Mallees, and they are mostly slow-growing and tough. 

Let us take a look at some of the benefits of Eucalyptus and how they help our communities. 

1. Leaves are used to make Air Fresheners.

2. Make Ointments 

Applied directly to the skin, the plant is used for treating minor aches and pains. It is also an ingredient in several over-the-counter rubs to be used as cold treatments.

3. Treatment for Respiratory Illness

Coughs, colds, sore throats, asthma, and congestion appear to respond to medicines containing eucalyptus. Relieve congestion and cough by rubbing eucalyptus oil or ointment into the chest. Another method for relieving congestion and other respiratory problems involves boiling eucalyptus leaves in a tightly covered pot filled with water then removing the pot from heat to inhale the vapors. The plant’s oil can be mixed with warm water to create a mouth rinse that helps alleviate sore throats. As an antibacterial, natural decongestant, eucalyptus often reduces the intensity and the duration of respiratory illnesses.

4. Treat Burns, Cuts & Insect Bites 

Topically, eucalyptus may be used as an antiseptic reducing the risk of infection and promoting healing. Also, because of its antibacterial and antifungal properties, eucalyptus is used to treat a variety of skin conditions, like cuts, cold sores, and athlete's foot. 

5. Help Relieve Muscle and Joint Pain

Rubbing oil from the leaves into the muscles and joints has been known to temporarily relieve pain.

6. Stimulant and stress reliever

Eucalyptus leaves and oil provide an aroma that can be useful in dealing with stress and fatigue.

7. Dental Care

Eucalyptus oils may be found in mouthwashes and toothpastes because it’s a natural bacteria fighter.

8. Used in Soaps & Cleansers

Commonly found in household cleaners, eucalyptus offers a healthy aroma and strong cleansing abilities. It is often used in spas and saunas for both refreshment and cleansing purposes.

9. Skin Care

Eucalyptus helps soothe dry skin. This plant can actually boost the ceramide level in your skin, helping your skin stay healthy and hydrated. In addition to soothing dry skin, eucalyptus helps to cool and refresh your skin.

Let's now take a look at the Eucalyptus benefits shared by our social media family members.

Twitter:

@lyraenatureblog -

"I used to sell a chest rub with the oil for coughs and colds, especially in children, and people loved it. I plan to start a smaller business again and will likely make it again. But the plant ecologist in me says Eucalyptus should be grown with caution due to invasive potential!"

Instagram:

 @aisha_bagha -

"Oral hygiene, treats acne"

@zainab_akadir -

"Relieves one from cold and nasal congestion"

@_real_rizwana -

"Kills germs"

@rewireyourmindsetstrategy -

"Helps with muscle and joint pain."

REFERENCES:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mallee_(habit)

ORANGE TREES

 Orange Tress are also part of our School Gardens. Orange tree is a citrus evergreen tree with a productive lifespan of 50-60 years. Some well-cared orange trees can live up to 100 years or more. It is a flowering tree and its height in maturity can range between 16 and 50 ft. 

Orange trees are evergreens and feature glossy, dark-green leaves year-round. They flower in spring, and the little green fruits mature into the familiar oranges in winter. Oranges actually need the cold night air to turn from green to orange. Fruits sheltered inside the tree's canopy may be completely ripe but are still green-skinned or a splotchy combination of green and orange.

Let us take a look at the benefits of Orange Trees: 

1. High in Vitamin C

Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C. Vitamin C is one of the most well-known and well-researched antioxidants. Good intake of vitamin C is associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer as it helps to get of free radicals that cause damage to our DNA.

2. Healthy Immune System 

Regularly consuming fruits, which are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds, can help promote healthy immune function.

Oranges and other citrus fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C, which is also vital for the proper function of a healthy immune system, is good for preventing colds and preventing recurrent ear infections.

3. Prevents Skin Damage

Anti-oxidants in oranges help protect skin from free radical damage known to cause signs of aging. Helps your body make collagen, a protein that heals wounds and gives you smoother skin. 

4. Reduces Blood Pressure

Oranges, being rich in Vitamins B6, help support the production of hemoglobin and also help keep blood pressure under check due to the presence of magnesium. 

5. Lowers Cholesterol

The 3 grams of fiber in a medium orange help keep your bowels healthy, your cholesterol and risk of heart disease low, and ulcers at bay. 

6 Helps in Absorption of Iron

Citrus fruits are very much essential for the normal functioning of our body as they help in the absorption of iron. Anemia is a condition where the body lacks an adequate amount of mineral iron that is essential for it to function. Though oranges are not a good source of iron, these vitamin C loaded fruits are essential in absorption of iron.

7. Controls Blood Sugar Levels

Fiber in oranges help by keeping blood sugar levels under control thereby making oranges a healthy snack for people with diabetes. Moreover, oranges have simple sugars. The natural fruit sugar in oranges, fructose, can help keep blood sugar levels from rising too high after eating.

8. Good Eye Health

Oranges are a rich source of carotenoid. The Vitamin A present in them play an important role in keeping the mucus membranes in the eyes healthy. Vitamin A is also responsible to prevent age-related muscular degeneration, which in extreme cases can lead to blindness. It also helps eyes to absorb the light.

9. Improves Digestion

Oranges have both soluble and insoluble fiber. This helps in keeping your intestines and stomach function smooth, preventing irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, the fiber helps treat constipation to a greater extent.

10. Folate for Moms and Babies

Oranges are a great way to get a big dose of folate naturally. Your body uses it to divide cells and make DNA. Because it helps prevent birth defects, it's an especially important B vitamin for pregnant women.

11. Stomach Health

Flowers of Orange trees can be used to fight stomach spasms. 

12. Muscle relaxant 

The use of essential oil of orange for relaxing massage helps relieve tension and reduce stress. 

Here are some of the benefits as shared by our Instagram family: 

@mentor_quresha - 

" Lowers risk of cancer. Acts as an anti-inflammatory." 

@its_winnie_cheche-

"Oranges" 

@zainab_akadir -

"Gives oranges which rich in Vitamin C" 

@aisha_bagha - 

"Sweet delicious Oranges"

@haffy_organics -

" Fruits used in skincare to improve the skin, boosts immune system & helps with constipation too " 

LEMON TREES

 Lemon trees are also part of our school garden plants in Kenya. Lemon, is a small evergreen tree grown for its edible fruit which, among other things, are used in a variety of foods and drinks. The tree has a spreading, upright growth habit, few large branches and stiff thorns. The tree possesses large, light green leaves and produces purple-white flowers in clusters. 

Lemon trees need well-drained soil because they are extremely susceptible to root rot. They prefer climates where the temperature does not fall below freezing, but they can live in colder climates though they may not fruit or flower.

Here are some of the benefits of planting lemon trees: 

1. Health Benefits

Lemon trees are a rich source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium. These minerals are vital for building & maintaining strong bones, maintaining a healthy heart as well as protecting you against cancer, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Lemons also contain proteins, carbohydrates, fats and antioxidants, which help boost the immune system which further positively impacts your health & wellness.

Lemons may also help in weight control, and digestive health. 

Citric acid may help prevent kidney stones by increasing urine volume and increasing urine pH, creating a less favorable environment for kidney stone formation. 

Flavonoid-rich lemons have anti-inflammatory properties and prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Fresh or dried lemon peels also boast tonic properties. They are used in to prepare certain appetite-enhancing drinks.

Lemons also help with dental care, they whiten teeth, fight plaque formation, soothe canker sores and inflamed gums.

Lemons are excellent back-up antiseptic agents when used externally. Lemon juice stops bleeding and speeds wound-healing.

Rinse your hair with lemon juice added to water for your last rinse after having used shampoo, and your hair will grow shiny and soft.

Finally, lemon peels are great against acne, and astringent lemon juice works wonders against black spots and dilated pores for persons with oily skin. Use pure or thin with mineral water.

2. Support other plants 

Lemons love to grow with Basil, Thyme, Cilanto and Rosmary. These herbs, are great for cooking and apart from their added health benefits, they could save you one less trip to the local grocer. 

3. Add beauty

Lemon trees certainly enhance the overall look of your garden; with those lustrous dark green leaves and bursts of yellow, it is indeed a scenic sight. These trees add a different dynamic to your garden and, to some, can even evoke a sense of serenity or positive emotions.

Also studies show that the lemon scent can help reduce stress and boost energy and alertness.

4. Lemon leaves benefits 

The leaves of the lemon tree are often overlooked and can be used for many different purposes. Lemon leaves are used as an excellent addition to culinary dishes, decorations, and seasoning. So, for instance, if you are looking for a new way to grill your meats, line the grill bed with lemon leaves, or wrap the leaves around meat or fish before grilling. In addition, lemon leaves have a fantastic aroma that is often used to impart bold flavors to dishes.

These leaves can also be used as an excellent mold for chocolate leaves. Simply wash the leaves before use, paint the melted chocolate over the leaves, leave to set, and then peel off. 

Alternatively, if you are in a mood for a tasty hot drink, try lemon leaf tea. An infused lemon leaf tea is sure to leave you feeling warm and fresh. Or add a lemon leaf to your standard cup of tea for a blast of flavor. 

Take a look at what our Instagram viewers have to say on the benefits of Lemon Trees :

@_real_rizwana -

" Rich source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, iron and potassium."

@mentor_quresha -

" Helps to strengthen blood vessels in our bodies. Used as an anti-inflammatory. Boosts the immune system as it also boosts vitamin levels." 

@dafina_bread -

"Produces lemon fruits"

@aisha_bagha -

"They provide us with lemons which are high in vitamin C "

PAW PAW TREES

 Papaya (Paw Paw) Trees are also very common plants found in our school gardens. The pawpaw is a small, deciduous tree that yields the largest fruit.  Pawpaw trees can grow to a height of about 25 feet. The leaves are dark green, shiny, and oval-shaped with pointy ends. They can grow up to 12 inches in length. In the fall, the foliage turns varying shades of yellow. These trees are famous for their fruit, which ripens in fall. The paw paw fruit is frequently described as custard-like with a flavor that is a cross between a banana and a mango. 

Paw paw trees require adequate irrigation but must be in well-draining soil conditions to prevent root rot and fungus. Be sure to protect young trees from too much sun exposure and wind. These trees have a suckering habit and will grow into a stand of paw paw trees. However, If you’re hoping to yield fruit from a paw paw tree, be sure to plant several genetically different trees in close proximity.

Here are some of the benefits of Paw Paw trees:

1. Medicinal Properties. 

One of the most prominent medicinal benefits of papaya leaf is its potential to treat certain symptoms associated with dengue fever.

 Papaya leaf teas and extracts are often used as an alternative therapy to alleviate uncomfortable digestive symptoms, such as gas, bloating, and heartburn. 

Various papaya leaf preparations are frequently used to remedy a broad range of internal and external inflammatory conditions, including skin rashes, muscle aches, and joint pain. 

The risk of developing asthma is lower in people who consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene, contained in foods like papaya, apricots, broccoli, cantaloupe, pumpkin, and carrots.

Papayas contain high levels of antioxidants vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Diets high in antioxidants may reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Just as papaya, papaya leaf juice also acts as a potent cleansing agent for the liver, thereby healing many chronic liver diseases, jaundice and liver cirrhosis.

The potassium present in the fruit is a huge supporter of kidney health. It cleans out the toxins deposited in the kidneys and reduced the accumulation of uric acid in the blood. Papaya seeds also play an important part in keeping the kidney healthy. The presence of flavonoids in it helps in keeping the cells from degenerating and prevents the kidney from dysfunctioning.

2. Hair & Skin 

Papaya leaf is frequently consumed orally or applied topically as a way to maintain soft, clear, and youthful-looking skin. When used topically, mashed papaya appears to be beneficial for promoting wound healing and preventing infection of burned areas. 

Papaya is also great for hair because it contains vitamin A, a nutrient required for sebum production, which keeps hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair. Adequate intake of vitamin C, which papaya can provide, is needed for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin.

3. Nutrition

Papayas are an excellent source of vitamin C, and one single medium fruit provides 224 percent of recommended daily intake. Papayas are also a good source of Folate, Vitamin A, Fiber, Copper, Magnesium, Potassium and Pantothenic Acid. They also have B vitamins, alpha and beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, vitamin K, and lycopene, the powerful antioxidant most commonly associated with tomatoes.

Here are the benefits of Pawpaw tree as shared by our Instagram family:

@_nussy.nus_ -

" They produce pawpaw fruits which are rich in vitamins (esp. high in vitamin C ) & minerals" 

@_real_rizwana -

" Healthy and filling "

@zainab_akadir -

" Extract from paw paw leaves used to treat symptoms of dengue fever " 

@aisha _bagha -

" Nutritious fruits!" 

MANGO TREES

 Mango trees are also part of our school gardens in Kenya. 

Mangifera indica, commonly known as the mango tree, originates from India. This large tropical evergreen tree is known to grow up to 100 feet. The leaves are elliptic to lanceolate and spirally arranged on the branches. New leaves are a copper color and turn a shiny green once they mature. Mangifera indica produces small white flowers that grow in flower clusters. The flowers are either male or hermaphrodite and both types can be found in a single cluster. The produce ranges in size, shape, and color depending on the variety. Average mango fruit tends to be between 3-5 inches long and egg or kidney-shaped. Their colors include green, yellow, red, and orange with many varieties bearing multicolored produce.

A mango tree requires full sun. The absolute minimum requirement is 6 hours of direct sunlight. However, 8-10 hours of direct sun is optimal. Mangos are accustomed to tropical climates so they thrive in the heat but do not like temperatures below 40°F. 

Benefits 

Here are some of the benefits of planting a Mango Tree :

1. Medicinal use - Different parts of the tree and fruits are used to treat hair loss, stomach pain, skin disorders, and wounds. The leaves also have anti-inflammatory properties and some animal studies have shown that they may also protect your brain from conditions like Alzheimer's or Parkinson's . Mango leaf may also help manage diabetes. 

2. Climate change -Researchers are studying how mango trees can help mitigate climate change. Mango trees have an incredible ability to sequester carbon. Planting fruit trees will also help reverse the effects of massive deforestation and help protect the soil.

3.  Economic benefits - Mango production requires only a few trees on a farm or in a backyard. The economic opportunity is widespread as opposed to concentrating production in the hands of one large farmer. From an economic standpoint, it makes sense that small producers will be in control if the mango price and the actual production increase. Encouraging mango production among small farmers will reduce poverty, strengthen communities and increase family incomes Reducing poverty will strengthen communities.

4. Mango fruit - Mangoes are not only tasty but packed with lots of nutrients. One of its most impressive nutrient facts is that just 1 cup (165 grams) of fresh mango provides nearly 67% of the DV for vitamin C. This water-soluble vitamin aids your immune system, helps your body absorb iron, and promotes cell growth and repair. Mango is also a good source of the minerals copper and folate, which are especially important nutrients during pregnancy, as they support healthy fetal growth and development. 

5. Furniture - The mango tree is hardwood. It is strong and durable in which there are many furniture can be built using the wood. 

6. Gives Shade - The canopy of mango tree is big which is great to gives shade. Younger tree has smaller canopy and the older one has bigger size one. The leaves of the tree gives shade. When the weather is too hot, people can go under the tree to stays cool. They will feel refresh when the wind breeze.

REFERENCES: 

https://www.epicgardening.com/mango-tree/

Thank you to our Social Media family for sharing some of the benefits of Mango Trees:

(Twitter)  

@Eric98122385 -

" Shields erosion -Coolant supportive -Oxygen machinery -Fruits producer "

(Instagram)

@mentor_quresha -

"Support healthy skin, Help combat diabetes, Treat stomach ulcers." 

@zainab_akadir -

"Has anti inflammatory properties. High in vitamin C" 

@_nussy.nus_ -

"Boosts immunity, Lowers cholesterol, Regulates blood pressure"

@aisha_bagha -

"Mango fruit...the best" 

@its_winnie_cheche -

"Mangoes" 

@_real_rizwana -

"Tastes good and healthy (esp summer)"