Inspiring Climate Action at Lusengeli Secondary School: Youth Taking the Lead

At Lusengeli Secondary School, a vibrant spirit of environmental stewardship took root recently as students from the Scouting Club, Handball Club, and Environment Club came together to embark on a transformative journey towards sustainability. The day was filled with enthusiasm, learning, and action as young learners immersed themselves in climate change education and tree planting, culminating in the establishment of a school-based Active Climate Change Club.

Guided by the principles of environmental conservation, the students participated in interactive sessions on the role of youth in addressing climate change. The event, supported by Forezava, was designed to empower learners with practical knowledge and hands-on skills. The young leaders embraced their roles with remarkable energy, actively engaging in discussions on sustainable practices and their significance in building resilient communities.

One of the day’s highlights was the planting of over 100 indigenous tree seedlings around the school premises. This hands-on activity not only demonstrated the students’ commitment to environmental conservation but also symbolized their determination to take tangible steps toward climate resilience. By planting indigenous trees, the learners are contributing to biodiversity conservation while addressing local climate challenges.

Building on the day’s momentum, the students formed an Active Climate Change Club, a vibrant platform dedicated to nurturing sustainable practices within the school and beyond. One of the club’s initial projects is the development of a tree nursery to ensure a continuous supply of seedlings for planting both on school grounds and in the community. By aligning their club objectives with Forezava’s environmental conservation efforts, the learners are setting an inspiring example of youth-led initiatives.

In addition to the learners’ involvement, we had the pleasure of engaging with the school principal, discussing opportunities for collaboration. Key areas of focus included sports, environmental conservation, and guidance counseling to address mental health challenges among students. Such partnerships will not only enhance the students’ climate literacy but also support their holistic well-being.

This initiative at Lusengeli Secondary School exemplifies how young people can be instrumental in driving community change. By equipping them with knowledge, practical skills, and platforms for leadership, we are fostering a generation that not only understands climate change but also takes proactive steps to mitigate its effects.

As we continue to support the Active Climate Change Club, we are optimistic that these learners will become steadfast climate champions—cultivating greener spaces, advocating for sustainable practices, and inspiring others within and beyond their community.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to empower the youth of Vihiga County through environmental education and community action.

Comments

When Good Intentions Fall Short: Reflections on Climate Resilience Projects in Vihiga

This week has been a whirlwind in Vihiga County. The Governor has been on the move, launching project after project—each meant to signal progress, resilience, and commitment to improving the lives of residents. On the surface, it feels like the county is on a steady path toward climate resilience and development. Bridges, irrigation schemes, and water projects are being unveiled with great promise. Take the Mutave–Jepses bridge in Hamisi, for instance. For years, residents have endured untold suffering trying to cross this dangerous spot that links Tambua Ward to Kisumu and Nandi Counties. Many lives have been lost there. Redeveloping it is a commendable step forward, yet questions linger. The cost—12 million shillings—has sparked debate, especially given that the structure resembles more of a box-culvert than a durable bridge with strong guard rails. Was it truly value for money, or another example of cutting corners where safety should be paramount? Credits: County Government of Vih...

Devolution Con: Vihiga Edition

The advent of devolution in Kenya strangely coincided with my university education. As a student at Masinde Muliro University in Kakamega County, I watched with wide-eyed curiosity as the new county governments grappled with their newfound power. In Kakamega, even the smallest development—like turning ghetto paths into proper roads or building mama mboga stalls—felt like a hopeful step forward. Meanwhile, back home in Vihiga County, my feelings were the exact opposite. The leadership seemed obsessed with short-term spectacles and quick photo opportunities, not a long-term vision. I sneered at the first county governor’s approach, dismissing it as directionless. Sadly, hindsight has proven me right—and then some. Photo Credits: The Standard Two terms and billions later, the story is depressingly familiar. Vihiga boasts of “stadiums” like Kidundu, Hamisi, and Mumboha—monuments not to sports, but to mediocrity. Millions were sunk into these facilities, only for them to resemble cattle m...

No Opportunities? Or just lazy, entitled Youth...

Yesterday, I rode a bicycle for over 25 kilometers . Not on some fancy cycling trail or in a city marathon, but through the rugged countryside, under a sky that seemed determined to drown me. The heavens opened wide, the rain poured, and within minutes, I was soaked to the bone. Mud splashed with every turn of the wheel, my legs burned, and every car that passed left me looking more like a stray dog than a man with purpose. Why endure all this? Because I was headed to meet a group of talented young people —people I have worked with for months, helping them shape ideas around technology and the lot into real enterprises. It was their meeting. They set it up. They picked the time. They picked the place. I showed up, dripping wet, hungry, exhausted… and alone (mostly). No calls. No messages. No apologies. Just silence. And yet, when the dust—or rather mud—settles, these are the same young people who will look at society and claim, “There are no opportunities for us.” The Myth of Limit...

Friends of River Ezava-Forezava

Search This Blog