Environmental Sustainability

Kenya, like many countries worldwide, is experiencing the severe impacts of climate change. Rising temperatures, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and an increased frequency of extreme weather events such as droughts and floods are profoundly affecting the nation. These climatic changes are worsening existing vulnerabilities, particularly among children and youth, who are the most susceptible to the adverse effects of a changing climate despite being the least responsible for it.

While climate change is a key driver of poverty and inequality, it also presents an ideal opportunity for youth to engage in and support adaptation and mitigation efforts, including the creation of green jobs and enterprises.

In this regard, ChildFund, in partnership with Dow Chemical, LEAP Africa and Ustadi Foundation, is working with youth to tackle climate change in Kenya. Together, we design and deliver programs focused on climate adaptation and mitigation, to mark the Youth Day of Service. This annual week-long Pan-African youth-led social impact campaign begins on August 12 each year. Themed “Youthful and Useful,” this campaign calls on African youth to drive change in their communities. This initiative harnesses the agency, creativity, and voices of youth to achieve Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by equipping them with the necessary resources, skills, and tools for personal and community transformation.

Last year, over 500 youth in Nairobi’s Kasarani area participated in tree planting, community cleanup, and river cleanup activities. They also showcased various innovations and initiatives aimed at combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability. These included waste management and recycling projects, climate-smart agricultural practices, restoring degraded areas and creating green spaces, renewable energy solutions, climate education, green energy entrepreneurship, biogas production, and sustainable transportation initiatives such as biking.