Erick Saddam – Page 3 – Kwetu Yetu CBO

14Sep2024

Erick Saddam Environment September 14, 2024October 18, 2024 0 Comments

Kwetu Yetu CBO’s Youngest Ambassadors

Date: 13th September 2024
Location: UNEP Headquarters, Nairobi
Host: Ms. Inger Andersen, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UNEP

In a heartwarming and powerful moment, Miriam, one of Kwetu Yetu CBO’s youngest ambassadors, stood proudly alongside other children from across Kenya at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi. The group was on a mission to deliver an urgent message—one written by children, to the world. Their goal: to bring attention to the devastating impact of plastic pollution and urge global leaders to take immediate action.

A Voice for Change

As a member of Kwetu Yetu Community-Based Organization (CBO), which is dedicated to sustainable resource management, climate adaptation, and community empowerment, Miriam has been deeply involved in environmental initiatives from a young age. Kwetu Yetu’s tagline, “Nurturing Nature and Thriving Together,” reflects the values Miriam has grown up with—values she is now bringing to the international stage.

The letters presented to UNEP, written by children from Malindi, Kenya, conveyed a heartfelt plea to curb plastic pollution. These letters, filled with youthful hope and determination, highlighted the concerns that the next generation has about the environment they are inheriting. The children wrote passionately about the harm that plastic waste is causing to their communities, wildlife, and oceans, and called for urgent reforms in how plastic is produced, consumed, and disposed of.

A Memorable Occasion at UNEP

Ms. Inger Andersen, Under-Secretary-General of the United Nations and Executive Director of UNEP, warmly welcomed Miriam and her peers to the UNEP headquarters. In her address, Ms. Andersen praised the children for their commitment to environmental advocacy and emphasized the importance of listening to the voices of youth when shaping global policies on sustainability. She reiterated UNEP’s dedication to tackling plastic pollution through international cooperation and grassroots engagement, highlighting that the fight against plastic pollution requires a collective effort, from world leaders to the youngest citizens.

For Miriam, this was more than just a chance to deliver a letter; it was a moment to speak up for her generation, representing not just the children of Kwetu Yetu but also the future stewards of the planet. “We want to grow up in a world where nature is clean and healthy, and plastic is no longer a threat,” Miriam said during her visit. Her words resonated with everyone present, reminding the world that protecting the environment is a responsibility we all share.

Kwetu Yetu CBO: Leading the Charge for a Sustainable Future

Kwetu Yetu CBO has been at the forefront of environmental advocacy in Malindi, Kenya, engaging communities in sustainable resource management and climate adaptation initiatives. By empowering youth like Miriam to take active roles in environmental stewardship, Kwetu Yetu is ensuring that the next generation is equipped to lead the fight against climate change and environmental degradation. Through tree-planting drives, recycling programs, and educational campaigns, the CBO continues to make a tangible difference in the lives of local communities and the environment.

A Call to Action

The event at UNEP was a reminder that young people are not only the future—they are also the present, and their voices must be heard. Miriam, alongside her peers, reminded world leaders that the decisions they make today will shape the world that children will inherit tomorrow.

Kwetu Yetu CBO remains committed to nurturing nature and helping communities thrive together. With young champions like Miriam leading the way, there is hope that future generations will grow up in a world that is cleaner, greener, and free from the harmful impacts of plastic pollution.

Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can build a future where nature thrives.

26Aug2024

Erick Saddam Capacity Building, Composting, Environment, Training August 26, 2024August 26, 2024 0 Comments

Kwetu Yetu CBO Leads Waste Segregation Initiative at Local Cafe

In a step towards sustainable waste management, Kwetu Yetu CBO recently conducted an informative training session at Cafe Papayesh, situated in the Sun Park area on Wednesday 21st August 2024. The initiative, spearheaded by Julia Wahome, a Kwetu Yetu CBO representative, focused on educating local businesses about proper waste segregation practices.

The training, aligned with recommendations from the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), took place at Cafe Papayesh, owned by Jane Mwangi Muriuki. This event underscores the cafe’s commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible business practices.

During the session, Wahome emphasized the importance of waste segregation in promoting a circular economy and improving community livelihoods. She explained how proper waste management contributes to environmental conservation and economic benefits.

A key aspect of the training focused on composting organic waste. Wahome highlighted that composting adds essential nutrients to the soil, fostering the growth of primary producers that form the base of the food chain. This practice not only reduces landfill waste but also contributes to healthier ecosystems and potentially improved agricultural yields.

The training also addressed the critical issue of plastic waste management. Participants learned about the importance of recycling and reusing plastics to reduce the environmental burden, particularly on marine ecosystems. “Every piece of plastic we recycle or reuse is one less piece that might end up in our oceans,” Wahome noted.

To put theory into practice, Kwetu Yetu CBO delivered labeled waste bins to Cafe Papayesh. These bins are specifically designated for different types of waste, including separate containers for paper waste and organic waste. This practical addition will enable the cafe to implement waste segregation immediately, ensuring that each item is directed to its appropriate upcycling or recycling route.

Jane Mwangi Muriuki expressed her enthusiasm for implementing these new waste management strategies at her cafe. “With these new bins and the knowledge we’ve gained, we’re ready to make a real difference in how we handle our waste,” she said.

The initiative by Kwetu Yetu CBO is part of a broader movement towards a circular economy, where waste is minimized, and resources are used more efficiently. By educating and equipping local businesses like Cafe Papayesh, the organization hopes to create a ripple effect of sustainable practices throughout the community.

As the training concluded, both Wahome and Muriuki were optimistic about the impact of this initiative. The provision of labeled bins serves as a tangible reminder of the cafe’s commitment to sustainable waste management and sets an example for other businesses in the area.

With the success of this training and practical implementation, Kwetu Yetu CBO plans to continue its efforts, reaching out to more businesses and community members to spread awareness and provide resources for sustainable waste management practices.

20Aug2024

Erick Saddam Beach Clenup, Environment August 20, 2024August 25, 2024 0 Comments

Protect Our Ocean, Protect Our Future: Malindi’s Young Eco-Warriors Take a Stand

From Malindi the coastal town of Kilifi County, Kenya, a group of passionate children has taken up the mantle of environmental stewardship in Malindi, launching a powerful campaign to protect our oceans and marine life from the scourge of plastic pollution. Their message is clear and urgent: “Protect our ocean, protect our future.”

These young eco-warriors have embarked on a multi-faceted initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of plastic waste in our oceans. Their efforts include collecting plastic debris from local beaches and transforming it into thought-provoking art pieces. By repurposing microplastics into creative installations, they’re not only cleaning up their shorelines but also creating visual reminders of the pervasive nature of plastic pollution.

The children’s campaign goes beyond just cleanup efforts. They’re actively engaging with their community, educating both young and old about the devastating impact of plastic on marine ecosystems. Through their outreach, they hope to inspire a change in behavior and foster a sense of responsibility towards the environment.

According to local environmental champions, the impact of plastic pollution extends far beyond the immediate ecosystem. Many Kenyans have been adversely affected health-wise due to the consumption of sea animals that have ingested plastics. This sobering reality underscores the urgency of the children’s message – what harms our oceans ultimately harms us.

The young activists are calling on their fellow Kenyans to adhere to environmental protection laws and adopt more sustainable practices in their daily lives. They emphasize that small changes in individual behavior can collectively make a significant difference in reducing plastic pollution.

However, the children recognize that this is not a battle they can fight alone. They’re urging the government to take more decisive action:

Implement comprehensive capacity-building programs on plastic waste management.
Enforce stricter regulations on plastic use and disposal.
Provide more support for environmental education initiatives.

Furthermore, they’re challenging manufacturers to be part of the solution by:

Reducing their reliance on plastic packaging.
Investing in research and development of biodegradable alternatives.
Taking responsibility for the entire lifecycle of their products, including disposal.

The children from Malindi have shown us that age is no barrier to making a difference. Their dedication to protecting our oceans serves as an inspiration to us all. As we face the growing threat of plastic pollution, their message resonates more than ever: to secure our future, we must protect our oceans today.

Let us heed the call of these young environmental champions and take action in our own lives to reduce plastic waste. Together, we can turn the tide on plastic pollution and ensure a healthier, cleaner future for our oceans and ourselves.

19Jun2024

Erick Saddam Composting, Environment, Holidays June 19, 2024June 19, 2024 0 Comments

Composting for a Greener Future: Tackling Desertification and Drought

Desertification, the process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically due to drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture, poses a significant threat to ecosystems and human livelihoods. The phenomenon affects millions globally, leading to food insecurity, loss of biodiversity, and displacement. As the world grapples with climate change, the need for sustainable solutions to combat desertification has never been more urgent. One such solution is composting.

Waste segregation and compositing are integral components of effective waste management and sustainability. Proper segregation is essential for effective waste composting and other waste management processes. Organic waste consists mainly of kitchen scraps, food waste, garden waste, and other biodegradable materials. Our project on composting is targeted towards promoting the recycling of organic waste at the source with an aim of improving soil quality and combating the climate crisis by reducing methane and other greenhouse gas emissions in landfills as a result of anaerobic processes.

The theme “United for land” for the 2024 World Day to Combat Desertification & Drought highlights the critical importance of collective action in addressing the pressing challenges of land degradation, desertification & drought. We are working on establishing a circular economy for the organic waste by safely returning it to the soil in the form of organic fertilizer. This is how composting is tackling desertification & drought;

Enhancing Soil Structure & Fertility.

Compost adds organic matter that improves soil structure & provides essential nutrients that support plant growth. Better soils & healthy vegetation increase the soils’ ability to retain water and reduce runoff & erosion.

Increase in Water Retention Capacity.

Organic matter in compost increases the soil’s ability to hold water. Mulching with compost reduces surface evaporation, conserving soil moisture.

Mitigating Erosion

By improving soil structure & increasing vegetation cover, compost helps to stabilize soil & reduce erosion by wind & water.

Supporting Soil Biodiversity

Compost introduces beneficial microorganisms into the soil which contribute to a more resilient soil ecosystem, better able to withstand stressors like drought.

Carbon Sequestration

Increasing soil organic carbon improves soil fertility & structure, which is crucial for combating desertification.

Promoting plant growth

By providing essential nutrients & improving soil health, compost supports the growth of vegetation, which is vital for stabilizing soils & maintaining the water cycle in dry lands.

Encouraging Sustainable Land Management

Composting organic waste reduces the need for chemical fertilizers, which can harm soil health & biodiversity which rehabilitate degraded land & prevent desertification.

As the global community seeks to address the challenges of desertification and climate change, composting stands out as a practical and effective tool. With the right support and policies in place, composting can help transform barren landscapes into thriving ecosystems, securing a healthier and more sustainable future for all.

Article written by: Rael Nelly.

18Jun2024

Erick Saddam Stakeholders, Tree Planting June 18, 2024June 18, 2024 0 Comments

President’s Award participants Tree planting launch

On 06/15/2024, Kwetu Yetu CBO offered a partnership to St Thomas Girls, Kilifi, to a variety of training and mentorship to the students about climate change. St Thomas Girls, Kilifi is a participant in the president’s award and they were launching their 250,000 tree planting activity on 06/15/2024. At the event, our representatives, Rael Nelly, and Julia Wahome made networks with people of similar agendas including the President Award Team, Plan international amongst others

I joined St Thomas girls, Kilifi as they launched the president’s award project where they plan to grow 250,000 assorted seedlings in Kilifi county. When the vision bearers are young and their mentors have rich experience the project sustainability is guaranteed. It was a very insightful event and we look forward to introducing the school in to the waste management program.
Julia Wahome

In a statement, The President’s Award-Kenya said ” Involving schools and communities to achieve and strengthen sustainable tree planting and climate change adaptation; that is the project by Award participants from St. Thomas Girls Secondary School in Kilifi county a program envisaged to serve Kilifi County.

The amazing participants took action to combat climate change and protect our planet. The inspirational young people rolled up their sleeves for a massive tree-planting drive in their local community. They worked tirelessly to ensure each new tree was given the best possible start. From digging holes to carefully positioning the young trees, it was a fantastic team effort!

The participants hope to plant and grow 25,000 tree species in different communities and schools in three years. This will include fruit trees and other tree species to improve the green cover and mitigate the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.

We are so proud of the commitment of the young participants to environmental conservation and can’t wait to see the positive impact of their hard work for years to come. Let’s give a huge round of applause to these eco-warriors!
Well done to all involved in this incredible initiative. Your actions are an inspiration to us all. “