Friends of River Ezava-Forezava

There’s a certain magic in watching a river ripple past an old tree or observing how a tiny insect makes its home on a resilient plant. Through my lens, I have come to appreciate the incredible stories that nature tells—stories of survival, persistence, and the quiet determination to thrive against all odds. Zoom Into Nature! was born from this deep-seated curiosity and respect for nature’s innate ability to self-preserve. As a visual storyteller, I am constantly fascinated by how nature, even when faced with the harshest of conditions, finds ways to persist. A river meandering through rocky terrain, a flower blossoming amid the urban sprawl, or a bird singing after a storm—all of these moments speak to me of resilience and renewal. My journey into nature photography began as a personal quest to reconnect with the environment around me. I found that each shot, each frame, had a story to tell. Over time, it became more than just capturing beautiful images—it became a way of preserving ...

The second edition of the Sports4Ezava Tournament were held in Tambua Ward. We were able to conduct an activity that brought together over 500 young people in playing the sport for climate action eduction. We also attracted multiple other stakeholders and partners in the roll out of the activity. Most notably the contributions of KNCCI Vihiga branch, YALI RLC EA, Kenyatta University, USAID, MESI CBO and all the local football teams that took part in the activity. We feel greatly indebted for the amazing show of support. The following teams participated in the 2nd edition of the Sports4Ezava Tournament and were successfully awarded certificates! 1. Gamalenga FC Wycliffe Chabuga- SPORTS4EZAVA/001/AUG/2024 Artaban Odundo- SPORTS4EZAVA/002/AUG/2024 Caleb Kiplagat- SPORTS4EZAVA/003/AUG/2024 Gregory Anyura- SPORTS4EZAVA/004/AUG/2024 Justus Miheso- SPORTS4EZAVA/005/AUG/2024 Phestus Obiri- SPORTS4EZAVA/006/AUG/2024 Eugene Ayuya- SPORTS4EZAVA/007/AUG/2024 Victor Soren- SPORTS4EZAVA/008/AUG/2024...

In the verdant landscapes of Western Kenya, where the whispers of ancient forests mingle with the hopes of modern progress, a golden secret lies buried beneath the earth. Here, in the heart of Vihiga and Kakamega Counties, the discovery of vast gold deposits has set the stage for a modern-day treasure hunt of epic proportions. But as fortune beckons, so too do questions of sustainability and community well-being, casting a shadow over the glittering promise of prosperity. The Business Daily (2021), reported that Shanta Gold had revealed the presence of extensive gold deposits, estimated at a staggering 1.31 million ounces, with a jaw-dropping value of over 164 billion Kenyan Shillings. This discovery set off a flurry of activity, particularly in the so-called Lirhanda corridor, spanning over 1,161 square kilometers across Kakamega, Vihiga, Siaya, and Kisumu Counties. However, this surge in mining activities is not a new phenomenon. Artisanal mining has long been a part of the fabric o...

Are you passionate about making a difference in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation? Do you have innovative ideas and solutions to address pressing environmental challenges? If so, we invite you to seize the opportunity and apply for the Youth4Climate Award 2024! Initiated by the UNDP Rome Center and the Italian Ministry of Environment and Energy Security, the Youth4Climate Award aims to recognize and support youth-led initiatives that tackle environmental and climate issues head-on. With a focus on fostering youth inclusivity and innovation, this award program is paving the way for a more sustainable and resilient future. One inspiring example of the impact of the Youth4Climate Award is Forezava, a startup that received recognition during the first call for solutions in 2023. Their groundbreaking efforts exemplify the potential of youth-led initiatives in driving positive change. Now, it's your turn to join this global movement and unleash your creativit...

We have to face some hard reality here today. As we speak in the serene greenery of Vihiga County lies a dark reality that threatens the lives of our young people. The allure of gold has lured many into the depths of unregulated mining, where danger lurks at every corner. This morning, the harsh truth hit home once again as news broke of yet another tragedy unfolding in Chanda, Chambiti Village. Five young souls now find themselves trapped within the confines of a treacherous mine, their fate hanging in the balance. With each passing hour, anxiety mounts, and the uncertainty of their condition grips the community in a somber embrace. But this is not an isolated incident; it is a recurring nightmare that has plagued Vihiga County for years. The toll of unregulated gold mining is measured not just in lives lost and bodies injured but in the shattered dreams of families torn apart by grief. These are but dark times for a generation. Anyone that has had an opportunity to visit these sites ...

As I sit down to reflect on my journey as a social entrepreneur this week, I can't help but marvel at the winding path that brought me to where I am today. It all began in 2015 when, fueled by a mix of excitement and boredom, I co-founded the Vihiga Poverf Digital Youth Group. Little did we know that this venture, initially sparked by youthful enthusiasm, would be the genesis of my foray into social entrepreneurship. Our first project was a vegetable farm at my home, with 1100 stems of kales meticulously planted. However, our optimism was quickly met with the harsh reality of climate change. Devastating rains and hailstorms shredded our hard work, leaving us disheartened. Despite the setback, I persevered. In 2018, I established the Progressive Youth Group, a venture that taught me valuable lessons in resource mobilization and project management. Challenges arose when a faction within the group revolted, resulting in the loss of a significant financial opportunity from a secured pa...

Wednesday, 3rd January 2024 Kiritu. Change is an inevitable companion in our lives. It arrives in various forms, beckoning us to adapt and evolve. But have you ever thought about how the changing climate around us intertwines with the transformations happening within ourselves? As we take strides into this discussion, imagine a vibrant morning in your village, the familiar sights and sounds that accompany the dawn. The warmth of the sun touching your skin, the rustling of leaves in the gentle breeze, and the laughter echoing across the fields. These scenes, so familiar, are part of our daily lives, aren’t they? But have you noticed the subtle shifts happening around us? Climate change, much like the changes within us, is altering our world in ways we might not always notice at first glance. The once predictable rains now arrive late or in torrents, disrupting our farming patterns and affecting our livelihoods. The prolonged droughts scorch the earth, challenging our ability to grow foo...

Climate change is an undeniable global crisis that requires immediate and concerted action from every nation. In recent times, the issue has gained considerable attention across the African continent, with governments and politicians purportedly pledging to combat climate change. However, a closer look reveals that many of these claims are little more than empty promises, as the actions taken by African leaders often fall short of their grandiose proclamations. This article explores the disheartening reality of how governments and politicians in Africa are taking credit for climate action while making insufficient real efforts to address the urgent environmental challenges. In the face of growing international pressure and public awareness about climate change, African leaders have been quick to join the global discourse on environmental protection. They have actively participated in climate summits, delivered impassioned speeches, and signed various agreements aimed at reducing carbon...