Reconnecting local communities in Kenya with healthy, nutritious plant-based living
Torch Initiatives partners with schools and communities across Kenya to promote plant-based eating rooted in local traditions. We support women and youth in growing food sustainably, improving nutrition, and nurturing care about the animals and the planet.
“We're building a kinder, healthier, and more sustainable future through plant-based living that celebrates African heritage. At Torch Initiatives, we work with communities to create meaningful change for people, animals, and the planet. We're growing a movement that will impact generations to come.”
Virginia Ruguru, Founder & Team Lead, Torch Initiatives
WHAT WE DO
Here's how we support communities across Kenya:
School Outreach
We work with schools to promote plant-based education that connects health, compassion for animals, and environmental sustainability. We do so through workshops, classroom lessons, and cooking demonstrations.
We participate in the Thrive Africa Vegan School Lunch Campaign, an Africa-wide joint campaign organized by Thrive Africa and Thrive Philanthropy. We coordinate the campaign in Kenya, supporting schools in introducing plant-based meals and raising awareness about sustainable food choices.
Community Outreach
We support women and youth through vegetable gardening projects and skills training. These gardens strengthen food security, generate income, and bring indigenous vegetables back to local markets. We also run community events teaching plant-based cooking and sustainable living.
Animal Welfare
We promote compassion for animals through education and work alongside sanctuaries like Nikki Cat Sanctuary in Watamu. As a trusted voice, we provide guidance on community engagement and awareness efforts that connect kindness to animals with sustainable living, helping communities reconnect with traditional African values.
Africa Vegan Restaurant Week
We participate in Thrive Africa Vegan Restaurant Week (AVRW), an Africa-wide campaign organized by Thrive Africa and Thrive Philanthropy to increase accessibility to plant-based options and raise awareness about sustainable food choices. We coordinate the campaign in Kenya, recruiting and supporting restaurants, caterers, hotels, and other establishments to add plant-based menu options, while offering training and public awareness initiatives.
WHERE WE WORK
Based in Kenya, we currently serve schools and communities in Nairobi and Kilifi County.
Previous Events
Results since 2018
Reached through our school and community outreach programs:
1,000+ Students
100+ Women
50+ Youth
Reached through TV and radio advocacy campaigns:
2 Million+ Kenyans
Testimonial
After working with us, Joy Schools completely removed meat from their menu. Their students gradually moved from three to four meatless days, then eliminated meat entirely. Here’s what the School Director of Joy Schools had to say about the change:
"Today, our students talk about climate, about love for animals, about growing vegetables with care. They are learning that leadership begins not in titles, but in choices, in every bite, every breath, every act of compassion."
– Dr. Joyce Kamau, School Director, Joy Schools
Torch Initiatives lead Virginia presenting at Joy Nairobi School:
Get Involved
Schools
Bring plant-based meals and education to your students
Communities
Start a vegetable garden with our support
