Karen Wanjiru, a 9-year-old Kenyan, received a round of applause from world leaders after interviewing President William Ruto at the COP27 being held in Egypt.
Wanjiru, who was in the company of her mother, posed questions to the head of state regarding his tree-planting agenda. The interview was conducted on Monday, November 7, after the President addressed the media on climate Change.
Wanjiru introduced herself to the international delegation before acknowledging Ruto, who pledged to improve the forest cover by planting 5 billion trees.
"I have planted more than 10,000 seedlings. I have a few questions to ask my President William Ruto.
"My president, your plan to have youth in Kenya plant trees is a good idea and I support it, but my question is, how are you going to ensure that trees planted in dry areas do not dry up because of lack of rain?" she posed.
She also inquired about Ruto's plan to mitigate the effects of the ongoing drought affecting wild animals.
"Wild animals are dying because of drought in Kenya. I have seen elephants dying. My question is, how will you save wildlife from dying?" Wanjiru asked.
Climate change delegation, and Kenyan leaders led by Kirinyaga governor, Anne Waiguru, commended her for her courage and knowledge on climate change.
Ruto also lauded the 9-year-old for her courage while responding to the two questions.
The president reiterated his commitment to addressing climate change in Kenya.
Later on, after the interview, Ruto met Wanjuri promising to invite her for a sit down once the international event ended.
"Wow, Thank you very much. We shall meet when we get home," Ruto stated.
