Friends of River Ezava-Forezava

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,...

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...

We recently made a bold move by hosting the inaugural Sports for River Ezava Tournament, a groundbreaking event that not only celebrated athleticism but also spearheaded environmental stewardship. The tournament, which brought together more than 200 young athletes under the age of 17, served as a beacon of hope for community-driven climate action. Nestled within the scenic confines of Demesi Primary School playground, the tournament transcended conventional sports gatherings by fostering a holistic approach to community engagement. Beyond the exhilarating matches and spirited competition, participants and spectators alike were invited to partake in a series of collective endeavors aimed at nurturing the local ecosystem and raising awareness about climate change. One of the standout initiatives orchestrated during the event was the ambitious tree planting campaign. With a shared commitment to environmental conservation, over 2000 trees were lovingly planted, symbolizing a collective ple...

As an intentional component of this blog we have invested in addressing aspects of interests around climate change, youth and community. This disclaimer is as important as anything else within today's conversation. Now let's dive into it! The Green Army initiative was first floated as a national recruitment drive through the Kenya Forest Services for youth across the country to participate in nationwide tree growing programs. The first call for applications exactly a year or so down the line clearly stipulated that the recruited youth over 4000 of them would undertake activities with a recompense model of between 9000-18000 shillings every month for a period of one year. And these initiative would be managed by Kenya Forest Services and its regional officers. In all honesty anyone looking at such a model would feel a strong level of pride and great enthusiasm. Finally, the government had decided to step up work and in so doing created opportunities through Climate Change miti...

The recent sentencing of Jowie Irungu to death row has sent shockwaves through Kenya, sparking intense discussions and raising critical questions about the justice system's treatment of its youth. The imposition of a death sentence, an archaic relic from colonial times, seems like a blast from the past in a nation that has long abandoned its practical application. However, the specter of death row still looms large, casting a chilling shadow over the lives of many young Kenyans. For over 35 years, death row has largely been replaced by lengthy jail sentences, with the possibility of eventual pardon through the presidential power of mercy. Yet, the question remains: are Kenyan youth at risk of finding themselves on death row? The answer is not a simple one. In a society where socio-economic disparities, political tensions, and systemic injustices persist, the risk of being wrongly accused or truthfully implicated in cases of murder or violence cannot be overlooked. The reality is th...

In the fight against climate change, dialogue is our most potent weapon. It's not just about talking; it's about innovation, localization, and normalizing the actions needed for a sustainable future. We must constantly seek new ideas and approaches to combat climate change. Whether it's harnessing renewable energy, developing carbon capture technologies, or implementing nature-based solutions, innovation is key to finding effective solutions to this global challenge. Climate action is not one-size-fits-all. It needs to be tailored to the unique needs and contexts of local communities. By engaging local stakeholders, including indigenous peoples and marginalized groups, we can ensure that climate solutions are inclusive. We need to shift societal norms to prioritize sustainability. This means making environmentally-friendly choices the default option, whether it's opting for public transportation, reducing waste, or supporting eco-friendly businesses. By normalizing sust...

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...