Capacity Building – Kwetu Yetu CBO

Traditional ecological insights, wisdom, and knowledge are passed down through generations. This is very important, especially in environmental conservation and sustainable development.

However, with increased use of technology most people especially the young ones may see this knowledge as backward and useless but it is the one that guided the way of life before technology and climate change.

Unfortunately with age the bearers of this knowledge are getting old and frail and their memory is failing them and eventually at the end of their time they exit the stage without leaving a backup. It is a great loss.

One such resource bearer is Mama Salome who lives adjacent to the Arabuko Sokoke forest which is a UN biodiversity Hotspot. The forest has not been spared the effects of climate change exposing the animals that are endemic to the forest in danger of extinction and the rich floral diversity to be a thing of the past only to be seen in books.

Mama Salome and other wisdom bearers play their hummingbird role by growing the species they need for herbal remedies at their farms creating a source of seeds in case the species in the wild disappears and also relieves the natural forest of the pressure of extraction which can be detrimental to the ecosystem when it is done without caution.

She also attends forums where environmental matters are being discussed and explains the need to domesticate the trees. She also shares her knowledge of herbal medicine and the common remedies for example the ones that were used by men to gain energy (coconut and raw cassava)

People of all ages are encouraged to stay close to such people and absorb the knowledge. The only way to ensure the baton keeps moving in the fight against climate change race.

Article written by Julia Wahome

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.