Greenwashing: Let's Have a Conversation
As young African climate justice actionists with Forezava, a youth-led climate action initiative in rural Vihiga County, we often find ourself oscillating between hope and frustration. Our initiative, committed to real, grassroots climate action, sees the devastating impact of climate change daily. Yet, we also witness an infuriating spectacle: government-led greenwashing that masquerades as genuine climate action.
Take the recent national tree planting events, for example. It’s hard not to laugh—or cry—at the irony. Here we have government ministers and permanent secretaries arriving in helicopters and fuel-guzzling convoys to plant a grand total of 50 trees in most cases. Yes, you read that right: 50 trees because once the photoops are done people scatter and no one cares about the remaining tree seedlings. Not the thousands they claim in their press releases, but a mere handful. The media, of course, laps up the exaggerated numbers without a second thought. Or in most cases because, waziri atatoa form!
These spectacles are a perfect example of what’s wrong with our climate change conversation. They embody a fundamental misunderstanding—or is it a willful ignorance?—of what genuine climate action looks like. The general idea of combating climate change involves flashy photo-ops and token gestures that do more for their public image than for the environment.
Let’s be clear: arriving in a convoy that emits more carbon than the trees can ever absorb is not just ineffective; it’s counterproductive. If these officials were truly committed to climate action, they’d ditch the helicopters and SUVs. They’d conduct these tree planting events in their home constituencies, traveling by foot or bicycle, setting an example for all of us. Imagine the impact if every government official walked or biked to these events, demonstrating their commitment to reducing emissions!
The media has a crucial role here. Instead of perpetuating these charades, journalists should call out such greenwashing. Highlight the contradictions, expose the exaggerations, and encourage citizens to demand real action, not just staged performances.
At Forezava, we know that real change doesn’t come from grandstanding but from consistent, community-driven efforts. Our initiative has produced and distributed over 100,000 seedlings within Vihiga County, working with youth groups, schools, and individual farmers. We track our emissions meticulously, ensuring that our activities counterbalance our carbon footprint. Our actions are driven by a deep understanding of the local context and a commitment to sustainable practices.
We see firsthand how our work can transform landscapes and communities. The trees we plant aren’t just symbols; they’re sources of livelihood, protection against erosion, and vital components of our local ecosystem. We engage directly with the community, educating them on sustainable farming practices and the importance of biodiversity. And we do it all without polluting the very environment we aim to protect.
The contrast couldn’t be starker. While government officials perform their token gestures, we’re here, boots on the ground, making a tangible difference. But we can’t do it alone. We need our government to step up genuinely, to move beyond the superficial and invest in real, sustainable solutions. We need our fellow citizens to hold them accountable, to demand more than just lip service.
It’s time for a reality check. Let’s move past the charades and commit to real climate action—action that doesn’t just look good in a photo but makes a genuine, lasting difference.
About Author: Kevin Makova
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