Growing up in Kenya, the author witnessed firsthand how environmental changes directly affect livelihoods, food security, and community well-being. Unpredictable rainfall, prolonged droughts, and extreme weather events have caused climate-induced displacement, forcing many families to abandon their homes. A personal encounter with a young farmer in Kajiado, whose family lost all their livestock to drought, highlighted the severity of the crisis that left over 4 million Kenyans facing food insecurity during the 2022 drought.
Motivated by these experiences, the author became a Global Youth SDG and Climate Advocate, working with organizations such as CMCAN, the Association of Intersex Parenthood, and the Global Peace Foundation Kenya. Their advocacy focuses on climate mobility solutions, ensuring that displacement caused by environmental changes is recognized in climate policies, and promoting sustainable solutions such as climate-resilient agriculture and alternative livelihoods.
Beyond policy work, the author has participated in hands-on initiatives, including planting over 10,000 trees in schools like Alliance Boys High School, aimed at ecosystem restoration, water source protection, and promoting sustainable land use practices. These projects combine environmental conservation with community education.
The author also prioritizes climate education and youth engagement, reaching thousands of young people globally through initiatives that explain climate policies and encourage participation in international forums like the Conference of Parties. They emphasize the importance of local voices in shaping climate solutions and preparing communities for environmental challenges.
Their expertise in climate security and governance has been strengthened through specialized training from organizations such as UNDP, AGNES, and the One Young World Global Health Academy. This training has equipped them to advocate for integrated approaches that connect climate action with health, security, and diplomacy.
One impactful project they contributed to was a climate-smart agriculture initiative with over 20 small-scale farming households. By introducing practices such as rainwater harvesting, smart cooking, agroforestry, and organic farming, the project helped farmers maintain productivity despite changing weather patterns, demonstrating that local action can effectively build resilience.
The author believes that tackling climate change requires a combination of advocacy, education, and on-the-ground solutions. While the challenges are vast, they find hope in the collective efforts of young people, local communities, and global networks dedicated to sustainable change, aiming to protect the environment and ensure a secure future for generations to come.
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