As Kenyans gear up to celebrate Mashujaa Day, the United Nations joined Kenyans in celebrating the heroes who fought for the country’s independence.
Through its environmental institution, UNEP, the global body recognized the actions of bold individuals who continue to fight for the environment and its protection.
Sustainable Lifestyles Programme Officer at UNEP, Garrette Clark saluted three young Kenyan entrepreneurs who are reversing trends in environmental degradation, protecting trees and reducing the need for resource extraction.
“Why the focus on youth? In essence, because youth are setting today’s (consumption) trends and will be tomorrow’s decision-makers. There are 2-3 billion new consumers - most of them young - expected to come online in urban settings around the world. in essence, youth are setting today’s (consumption) trends and will be tomorrow’s decision-makers.
"So it is critical to work with youth to make more sustainable living and lifestyles ‘the new normal’,” Clark stated.
Among those recognized is Elizabeth Wathuti, a 23-year-old founder of the Green Generation Initiative which addresses challenges such as deforestation, climate change and environmental injustices, by nurturing young environmental enthusiasts to take action on climate action, zero hunger, quality education and life on land.
In 2019, Wathuti was recognized as one of the most influential young people in Africa by the Africa Youth Awards.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, Wathuti expressed her elation for the recognition for her efforts in environmental conservation.
"It is such an honour to be celebrated on this year's Mashujaa day among young environment heroes in Kenya by UN Environment. I also celebrate everyone out there who is doing the best that they can to help secure a clean and green environment and future for us all.
"We also need to celebrate them by joining them in addressing the global environmental challenges that pose a huge threat to our future such as the climate crisis," she stated.
Elizabeth’s outstanding passion and personal commitment to environmental conservation led to her receiving the Wangari Maathai Scholarship Award.
Also on the list is Chebet Lesan, (29) is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Bright Green Renewable Energy - a social enterprise that makes eco-friendly charcoal, made from recycled waste.
Charcoal production contributes to deforestation, which enhances environmental destruction. Furthermore, the cost of charcoal is very high in Kenya. Chebet identified these challenges and started a social enterprise that would provide Kenyans with an alternative to charcoal.
The third Kenyan is George Onyango (23) who upcycles metallic oil drums into eco-friendly furniture. Onyango started his own company called Jus Drum Furnitures in 2018.
