Kenyaleo.co.ke

Category: LOCAL

  • Rockey Africa Partners with Jewell Souls Foundation to Feed Over 80 Children

    Rockey Africa Partners with Jewell Souls Foundation to Feed Over 80 Children

    Rockey’s Mr Kevin,the student Laurence and Madam Caro, the Jewel Foundation director

    By Steve El Sabai

    Rockey Africa Limited is proud to announce its partnership with Jewell Souls Foundation, a non-governmental charity organization dedicated to improving the lives of orphans and vulnerable children.

    This collaboration, valued at KSH 200,000 over four months, aims to provide essential food supplies to over 80 children associated with the foundation.

    The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), will ensure that these children receive nutritious meals, vital for maintaining their energy and motivation to stay in school. This initiative addresses the critical issue of child hunger, which often impedes school attendance and academic performance.

    Director of Jewell Souls Foundation, Carol Ndung’u, emphasized the importance of this support.

    “When we say food is a basic need, it’s more than just words. For these children, food is the key to staying focused in school and avoiding the hardships of street life.”

    In addition to the food donation, Rockey Africa has extended its support to Laurence Amuli, a young TVET student aspiring to become an electrician.

    Despite facing financial challenges that interrupted his formal education after primary school, Laurence remains passionate about technology and is determined to pursue a career in this field. Rockey Africa’s donation of electronic equipment will aid him in his studies and help him achieve his goals.

    This partnership marks a significant step towards fostering a supportive learning environment and creating opportunities for a brighter future for these children.

  • Wetang’ula to Kalonzo : Stop the hardline Stance

    Wetang’ula to Kalonzo : Stop the hardline Stance

    National Assembly Speaker Hon. Moses Wetang’ula has asked Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka to drop the hardline stance against forming a government of inclusivity and a broad-based cabinet.

    Wetang’ula said it was unfortunate that the former Vice President rejected President William Ruto’s plea to Azimio leaders to form a government of national unity.

    Speaking in Bungoma County, Wetang’ula challenged the Kalonzo-led Azimio leaders to collaborate with President Ruto noting that the formation of a broad-based cabinet is aimed at addressing demands that were raised by pro-reform youths.

    He noted that the current state of the country is delicate and requires selflessness from politicians to restore stability.

    “It is through the selfless and patriotic actions of the political class that national healing will be stimulated after the recent period of youth-led demands for reforms and improved governance,” said Wetang’ula.

    The Speaker made the remarks when he laid the foundation stone for the construction of the Webuye East Technical and Vocational College in Bungoma County.

    He was accompanied by Bungoma senator Wafula Wakoli, MPs John Waluke, John Makali, Didmus Barasa, and the host Martin Pepela among other leaders.

    He welcomed ODM leader Raila Odinga’s decision to have key members of his party nominated to the Cabinet, noting that the move would cool down political temperatures and stimulate healing of the nation.

    “Former Prime Minister Odinga’s move is patriotic and has reinforced President Ruto’s efforts to heal and restore stability in the country,” said Wetang’ula.

    Wetang’ula said there was still time for the Kalonzo-led team to abandon its hardline stance and collaborate in forming a government of national unity.

    The Speaker said the government of national unity was essential to achieving Kenya’s economic stability and prosperity.

    The Speaker further said Odinga’s critics who are lashing at him for opting to work with the government were wrong and asked them to rethink their stand.

    He noted that jubilations that greeted the nomination of ODM leaders to the cabinet in their backyards were a sign of acceptance.

    “The reception by supporters of leaders from the Opposition nominated to the Cabinet coupled by a warm welcome accorded to President Ruto by locals in Mombasa recently should be an eye opener to those opposed to the decision by the Head of State,” he added.

    And when he spoke later on at Nzoia sugar factory during a meeting with staff and farmers, Wetang’ula took issue with Luhya MPs who poured cold water on President Ruto’s decision to work with the Opposition.

    He noted that the MPs who have gone public lashing at the president and planning a rally in Kakamega to chat the way forward for the Mulembe nation after the move are lost.

    “I appeal to Luhya leaders opposing President Ruto’s initiatives, reminding them that Kenya’s well-being surpasses individual interests and urge them to respect the leaders appointed to serve in the government,” he said.

    He added: “Why is it that it is only in Western that leaders are agitated with the president’s move? We have seen local people celebrate in Nyanza, Central, and Coast!”

    Wetang’ula noted that the Nzoia sugar factory which has been on its knees due to financial challenges is on a recovery path after the government injected funds and reforms.

    He noted that the government recently disbursed Kshs.150 million to settle salary arrears of staff and promised them that the balance would be cleared.

    He noted that the resumption of cane crushing by the Mill was a positive move that is giving hope to farmers who rely on it for their livelihood.

  • It’s all systems go for the 2nd edition of the Sportpesa national 7s rugby Circuit

    It’s all systems go for the 2nd edition of the Sportpesa national 7s rugby Circuit

    From Left - Kenya Harlequins Players, Wiseman Aganya, Sandra Oduor and Jan Remke with SportPesa's Willis Ojwang 2nd Left
    From Left – Kenya Harlequins Players, Wiseman Aganya, Sandra Oduor, and Jan Remke with SportPesa’s Willis Ojwang 2nd Left

    The much-anticipated SportPesa Nationals 7s Rugby Circuit is back this year with the 2nd edition receiving a major financial boost of Kes 16.5 million from SportPesa, the title sponsor, in readiness for the top-tier rugby showcase.

    According to Kenya Rugby Union (KRU), the circuit will not only be an important head-liner for identifying the next crop of talent with the potential to join Kenya’s National 7s team Shujaa but also provides a good preparation ground for participating affiliate clubs ahead of the Safari 7s slated for October 2024.

    “The SportPesa National 7s Rugby Circuit is a cornerstone of our rugby calendar, providing a platform for showcasing the immense talent from all around the country. We therefore welcome this support for the game which will undoubtedly elevate the standard of the competition this year,” said Thomas Odundo, Chief Executive Officer, KRU.

    Kenya-Harlequins-Victor-Sudi-Chair-Wiseman-Agany-Ctr-Player-Sandra-Oduor-Wing-Jan-Remke-Ctr-and-Peris-Mukoko-Dir.-Women-Rugby-scaled.
    Kenya-Harlequins-Victor-Sudi-Chair-Wiseman-Agany-Ctr-Player-Sandra-Oduor-Wing-Jan-Remke-Ctr-and-Peris-Mukoko-Dir.-Women-Rugby-scaled.

    The Division One competition will see 16 teams fight for bragging rights while Division 2 will field up to 24. The host clubs in the six-leg tournament will receive Kes 1 million each to enhance their preparations ahead of the high-stakes encounter that promises to be a thrilling clash of the titans.

    During the cheque handover and unveiling of the tournament trophy, Willis Ojwang the Communications and Partnerships Manager at SportPesa reiterated the firm’s continued commitment towards sports development in the country while urging fans to come out in large numbers for the circuit.

    “We are proud to partner with the KRU and the affiliate clubs in hosting the second edition of the SportPesa National 7s Rugby Circuit. This sponsorship underscores our continued dedication to fostering the growth of 7s rugby in Kenya and we look forward to an exciting season as the circuit goes around the five cities in the country,” said Ojwang.

    Kicking off the season is the 57th edition of the Christie 7s scheduled for 27th and 28th July 2024 at the RFUEA Grounds on Ngong Road, Nairobi.  Hosted by the Kenya Harlequins, Christie 7s will start with the floodlit veteran’s clash on Friday, July 26, featuring Impala RFC, KCB RFC, Nondescripts RFC, Mean Machine RFC, Mwamba RFC and Kenya Harlequins RFC. This year will also see the Harlequin Ladies (Quin Queens) put out in three legs of the circuit namely Christie 7s, Prinsloo 7s, and Kabeberi 7s.

    Thomas Odundo - CEO. Kenya Rugby Union
    Thomas Odundo – CEO. Kenya Rugby Union

    Tournament Director Nekesa Were while highlighting the preparations said Christie 7s will offer the full fan experience, coinciding with the National team Shujaa playing at the Olympics in Paris, France as well as the Kenya Simbas who are featuring at the Rugby Africa Men’s Cup in Kampala Uganda.

    “This year’s Christie 7s promises to be the best yet. We have made significant preparations to ensure an exceptional experience for players, fans, and partners. From history, we know that the National 7s circuit is often the first-time live rugby experience for about ten percent of fans attending the games. We intend to be their gateway to a fulfilling first impression on the quality of Kenyan rugby,” she said.

    Christie 7s will lay the ground for the KRU 7s set for 3rd and 4th August at the ASK Kakamega Showground in Kakamega County. KRU 7s highlights a major addition made to the circuit this year acting as a replacement for the Tisap 7s which was discontinued last year. The third leg will shift to Kisumu County for Dala 7s which takes centre-stage on the 17th and 18th of August before the Kabeberi 7s winds up the month on the 24th and 25th of August.

    Mombasa County will welcome the fifth leg with the Driftwood 7s scheduled for the 7th and 8th of September which will then usher in Nakuru’s Prinsloo 7s on the 14th and 15th of September which is the sixth and final leg of the SportPesa National 7s Circuit 2024.

    The 2023 SportPesa National 7s champions, KCB Rugby Club, aim to replicate their stellar performance this year. They face a daunting task from strong contenders as they bid to retain their title. Last edition, the Bankers secured an exhilarating victory against Kabras to lift the trophy and claim the top prize.

  • Integrity Watch Lobby Group Calls for Political Accountability and Respect for Rule of Law

    Integrity Watch Lobby Group Calls for Political Accountability and Respect for Rule of Law

    Mr Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch addressing the Press Conference
    Mr Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch addressing the Press Conference

    A governance lobby group has warned foreign forces that could be keen on interfering in Kenya’s political system to keep off the country’s internal affairs, while at the same time calling for mature politics, good governance, and constitutionalism from the government.

    Integrity Watch says Kenya is a sovereign state and should therefore be left alone to run her affairs without external interference from states or formations wanting to drive their agenda.

    Terming itself a collaboration of organizations and individual anti-corruption crusaders, bloggers, activists, and whistleblowers, Integrity Watch reaffirms that they have a mandate to give full effect to Chapter 6 of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 on leadership and integrity.

    Addressing a media conference in Nairobi today, the lobby underscored the need for observation of the rule of law, constitutionalism, and democracy in Kenya, holding all political leaders to account on the backdrop of anti-government picketing staged by the Gen Z bracket witnessed in recent weeks.

    “The past few days our country has seen remarkable social movements for democratic change around the country…they have demanded greater justice and dignity, more transparent political processes, a fair share of political power and an end to corruption,” a statement by Mr. Ouma Jowi, National Coordinator Integrity Watch, reads in part.

    “The rule of law and democracy are interlinked and mutually reinforcing. The rule of law is based on key democratic principles such as equality before the law, accountability, separation of powers, and participation in decision-making. Like democracy, the rule of law is a principle of governance anchored in participatory and consultative processes. To be legitimate, laws should be widely consulted and reflective of society’s needs and values.”

    Jowi noted that a democratically elected parliament and a vibrant and strong civil society movement stand to provide ideal mechanisms for realizing the previous.

    The lobby group condemned what it termed continuous incitements and the barrage of hate speech in political gatherings and on social media, urging Kenyans to hold dear the fact that we have only one country which is irreplaceable in case it is destroyed.

    Among the demands Integrity Watch gave to the political leadership and Kenyans in general are that all social movements should uphold patriotism and constitutionalism, politicians to embrace tolerance and respect to such movements, and all social movements to consider dialogue on their different platforms in a bid to foster peace and unity.

  • GPLC Africa 2024 Endorses Youth Leadership In Push For African Renaissance

    GPLC Africa 2024 Endorses Youth Leadership In Push For African Renaissance

    As this year’s Global Peace Leadership Conference drew to a close, young people took center stage as major drivers of the African Renaissance with participants calling for increased investment in youth led collaboration initiatives and activities in the continent.

    The conference, which happened on the backdrop of a youth led countrywide protest against new proposed tax laws in Kenya, commenced on June 25, 2024, at the Konza Technopolis in Machakos County with a commitment by participants to environment conservation as an important tool for ensuring peace and social cohesion.

    Led by Dr. Hyun Jin Preston Moon, Chairman and Founder of the Global Peace Foundation and Priti Chandaria, Trutee Chandaria Foundation among other partners, over 1000 participants including primary and secondary school children planted 30,000 trees in support of the greening Konza initiative.

    Conference organizers cancelled the official opening ceremony initially scheduled for Wednesday June 26, 2024 due to the week-long protests that intensified on June 25, 2024 leading to the death of multiple protesters on account of law enforcement and the destruction of property including the Kenyan parliament and city hall, seat of the county government of the capital city Nairobi, that were both partially set ablaze.

    The ceremony was substituted by prayers for the nation and the injured with the conference issuing a statement urging for calm and dialogue in resolving the impasse between the state and aggrieved protesters.

    “Every successful transformation movement is a peaceful one. Anything that leads to violence and destruction only begets more violence and destruction,” said Dr. Moon, Chairman and Founder of the Global Peace Foundation lauding the Kenyan youth for taking the reins in advocating for impactful causes and urged them to maintain the spirit of peace.

    During the closing ceremony various speakers from across the continent championed youthful engagement in driving change and collaboration in the spirit of Ubuntu, while calling on African leaders to show their commitment to peace and ethical governance by investing in young people and who would take Africa to its next phase of prosperity.

    ”Promoting democratic principles, transparency, and accountability is central to the African renaissance story. Good governance, political stability and the respect for human rights are therefore critical tools that must be supported to help position Africa as a key player in global peace and leadership development,” said former President of Nigeria His Excellency Olusegun Obasanjo.

    Speaking during the Youth Leadership and Sustainable Development track, Moses Segun Obalade, Executive Director of the Peace Education and Network practice in Nigeria expressed the need for policies by African governments that reward and prioritize societal efforts and contributions towards the African renaissance spirit of Ubuntu.

    His sentiments were further echoed by Somalia’s Abdisalan Dualeh, the Executive Director, Somaliland Youth Development and Voluntary Organization, who called for the creation and strengthening of youth led Pan-African organizations that would carry on the work of African integration and collaboration in pursuit of peace and sustainable development.

    The session that zeroed in, on the urgency and agency of restoring African economies by promoting self-reliance of the youth as one means of achieving sustainable development, called for simplified market access and enablement through financial inclusion, the lack of which has impeded youth participation and access opportunities especially affecting many marginalized and rural communities across Africa.

    “Financial access is still largely governed by an individual’s proficiency and understanding of financial concepts. Those with higher skills and expertise therefore have a better likelihood of achieving their financial goals.

    Unfortunately, this also means the majority poor will keep getting left behind with each generational advancement and which is one of the narratives that an African renaissance can change by opening new avenues for collaboration and learning to ensure each year we are lifting up more and more people out of poverty,” said inclusivity champion, Rachida El Rhdiou, relating her perspective with the situation back in her home country of Morocco.

    Otim Brian Joseph, the Former Deputy Youth Ambassador to the East Africa Community for the Republic ofUganda, called attention to the need for upscaling market access and skills transfer through digital technologies and programmes to reach far flung populations with priority on empowering women and youth entrepreneurs who currently need these services the most.

    The Patron of the Global Peace Foundation in Kenya, industrialist Dr. Manu Chandaria, in his message to the conference vocalized his vision for an African renaissance that would unlock the enormous potential of Africa and its people while urging those blessed with resources and opportunity to take lead in facilitating Africa’s development and eventual transformation starting at the local level while contributing new ideas to the continent.

    Among the key take outs of the conference was the call for Africans to also embrace their shared cultural, economic, and political heritage as a transformative movement to not only revive but also celebrate Africa’s unique diversity with a renewed commitment to fostering global peace and stability.

  • Mediamax’s Nakuru based Reporter Shot by Police during Protest

    Mediamax’s Nakuru based Reporter Shot by Police during Protest

    MediaMax journalist, Catherine Wanjeri injured during protests.
    MediaMax journalist, Catherine Wanjeri was injured during protests.

    Mediamax Limited journalist Catherine Wanjeri was on Tuesday, July 16 shot while covering anti-government protests in Nakuru city county.

    The journalist was allegedly shot twice in the thigh by police officers from the photos depicted online.

    During the demos, the reports indicate how Wanjeri was wearing a press jacket and had a press card during the shooting incident only to be shot while exercising her duty.

    The Mediamax scribe was rushed to the Valley Hospital in Nakuru for immediate treatment as the Nakuru-based Press association released a statement condemning the act.

    The Association has called for a thorough probe into the matter. “We condemn such violence against journalists and demand that the government and police take immediate action against the rogue officers involved” Nakuru Journalists Association statement read.

    The statement further read, “We will not relent in our further pursuit of justice. We extend our deepest appreciation to the good Samaritan who acted swiftly to take Ms. Catherine to the hospital.”

    Wanjeri was among three people who were shot at by the police in Nakuru. The second person was shot in the leg while the third one was shot in the back.

    The shooting of the journalist caused uproar online with netizens condemning security officers over the incident.

    Nakuru-based journalist said, “This arbitrary and violent act against a member of the press, who was identified by her press jacket, is unacceptable. Such attacks on journalists and the clampdown on the fourth estate undermine the fundamental principles of press freedom and threaten the very core of our democracy.”

    Other social media users wondered why the journalist was shot yet she was wearing a press jacket.

  • Naivas gets recognition for brand exception, consumer trust

    Naivas gets recognition for brand exception, consumer trust

    Leading retailer Naivas Supermarket has been awarded the esteemed Superbrands becoming the first retail chain to achieve the prestigious recognition.

    The award is a recognition of its exceptional brand reputation and consumer trust, cements the supermarket’s status as a leader in the retail industry.

    The Superbrands Certification is bestowed upon brands that demonstrate outstanding quality, reliability, and distinction within their respective industries. Qualified brands, such as Naivas, receive the Superbrands Award Seal, which can be prominently displayed on advertising and marketing materials, websites, packaging, and other brand assets.

    Research conducted by leading market research firms including Nielsen, Synovate, BDRC, TNS, and others consistently highlights the significant impact of the Superbrands Award Seal on consumer behavior.

    Studies have shown that consumers are more than 70% more likely to purchase products or services displaying the Superbrands Award Seal, underscoring the importance of this prestigious certification.

    Speaking about the achievement, Peter Mukuha, Chief of Operations at Naivas, expressed gratitude for the recognition and reiterated Naivas’ commitment to living up to its mission of delivering a world-class shopping experience.

    “We are honored to receive the Superbrands Certification, which reflects our dedication to providing high-quality products and exceptional customer service. This esteemed recognition further motivates us to continue innovating and exceeding the expectations of our valued customers.”

    Naivas Supermarket has distinguished itself within the retail industry through its commitment to always delivering value to customers.

    It has remained ahead of the curve through innovation and delivering quality all geared towards customer satisfaction.

    With a wide range of products including its fresh offering, convenient locations, and a reputation for excellence, Naivas has truly earned the trust of Kenyan consumers. As a Kenyan homegrown brand that has brought the global shopping experience to the country, it has always remained true to its values. Serving every customer with the unmistakable Kenyan hospitality who in turn have crowned it with one of the greatest honors a brand can earn globally.

  • Government Disburses June 2024 Funds for the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer Programme

    Government Disburses June 2024 Funds for the Inua Jamii Cash Transfer Programme

     

    The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection on Friday, 28th June 2024, released Kshs. Three Billion, Two Hundred and Fifteen Million, Nine hundred and Ninety Two Thousand shillings, (Kshs. 3,215,992,000) for June 2024 payment to beneficiaries enrolled in the Inua Jamii programm.

    The Ministry has on boarded 570,263 new beneficiaries. The total of beneficiaries in the June payroll is 1,037,733 in may 2024.

    This follows His Excellency President Dr. William Ruto’s directive last year to upscale the programme to 2.5M beneficiaries, which will be done in phases July Payment will commence on Wednesday, 3 July 2024. All those new beneficiaries who have opened bank accounts will be paid from
    Wednesday.

    “Inua Jamii programme is a government cash transfer initiative that supports the most vulnerable members of the community by providing them with a stipend to cushion them from poverty, hunger, and improve
    their lives.” Said Principal Secretary
    State Department for Social Protection and Senior Citizen Affairs Joseph M. Motari.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Caregivers to be Equipped with Proper Knowledge and Skills for the Improvement of Quality Childcare Services

    Caregivers to be Equipped with Proper Knowledge and Skills for the Improvement of Quality Childcare Services

    Stakeholders celebrating the day of the African Child
    Stakeholders celebrating the Day of the African Child

    By Melisa Mongina

    The Early Childhood Network for Kenya (ECDNeK) in partnership with the African Early Childhood Network has intensified Child Care advocacy initiatives by creating a nationwide awareness campaign on the importance of quality and affordable Child Care.

    Speaking during the launch of the Child Care campaign dialogue, Philip Nzege, Directorate of Children Services, noted the importance of having a safe and secure environment for children adding that children should have trained personnel to ensure that they are well cared for.

    ” We will have to look at how children are taken care of in the environment. It must be safe and secure as it is stated very clearly in the Children’s Act 2022. We will also come up with a program to ensure that for one to be involved in childcare he/she must attain some training for proper care of the child,” noted Philip.

    Further, Philip notes that child care is a collective responsibility that needs collaboration between stakeholders, the county, and the national government.

    ” One of the special directories involved closely with families is social development and parenting program. It is high time we need to bring this component of Child Care into the special directorate so that when we are talking about families and the challenges they face, that social development and parenting program can pick that issue and come up with the solutions,” added Philip.

    He also emphasized the need for crafting units or courses that will teach students after completing university how to do parenting.

    ” The university provides solutions and fills the gap of communities. I think it is high time our higher education institutions craft a unit or a course so that when our sons and daughters complete university education, they can be taught how to do parenting,” urged Philip.

    According to Dr. Teresa Mwoma, The National Coordinator at ECD Network Kenya, there is a need to empower caregivers for better quality Child Care services especially for children between the age of 0-10 years as it is the time when rapid development in children takes place.

    “The first 1000 days is the first 3 years by extension to the 5th year which is very critical because there’s rapid brain development, providing the child with an environment that is stimulating all the senses with what the child is seeing, what the child can touch, taste, and hear. Exposing children to stimulating environments helps in developing their brains,” said Dr. Teresa.

    The nationwide campaign’s implementation strategy will include coordination, advocacy at the national and county government levels, and learning and knowledge management. The campaign’s impact will be enhanced by leveraging national calendar days, such as the Day of the African Child.

  • Young Environmentalist Awarded Ksh 24 Million by KCDF Innovative Challenge

    KCDF awards a cheque of KES 23, 950,000 to the finalists of the Young Environmentalist Innovative Challenge

    The Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) awarded a cumulative amount of Ksh 23,950,000 to five community youth organizations to support their innovative ideas towards environmental sustainability and conservation.

    Under its Young Environmentalist Innovative Challenge (YEIC), KCDF aims at developing action-oriented young
    individuals and youth-led organizations committed to the conservation of the environment.

    The finalists of the inaugural challenge, launched in 2023, were awarded in this event that also saw the launch of the second edition. The winners included Inua DamSite from Nyandarua County, EcoRich Solutions and Placom Manufacturers from Nairobi County, and Farmer Lifeline Technologies
    and Fruity Schools Africa from Kiambu County.
    This year’s edition seeks to award three young individual environment champions with grants of up to KES 1.5 Million and six organizations with grants of up to KES 5 Million each, for implementing their unique environment conservation-based ideas.

    Grace Maingi (R) KCDF Executive Director and Kihara Maina (L), Regional Chief Executive Officer, I&M Group PLC during the launch of the 2nd Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge.

    YEIC is an environmental innovation fund established by KCDF with support from Mackenzie Scott to bolster innovative ideas and solutions that promote environmental conservation, sustainable resource management, and community resilience. KCDF has partnered with the National Environment Trust Fund (NetFund), Green Generation Initiative (GGI), and the Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) to identify top unique ideas through this initiative.

    In a ceremony that brought together, youth representatives, the private sector, environment champions, advocates, and enthusiasts, the event underscored the significance of environmental conservation in addressing pressing global issues such as drought and climate change. It emphasizedthe role of digital technology in enhancing efforts to protect the environment.

    Speaking during the event, the Chief Guest Mr. Kihara Maina, Regional CEO of I&M Group PLC, commended KCDF for its commitment to supporting youth innovations. He emphasized the government’s role as an enabler, suggesting that some investments are challenging for individuals to undertake alone. Mr. Maina proposed using taxes to support youth-driven innovations, emphasizing that sustainability hinges on profitability, which can then fund transformative innovations.

    “Our commitment is to lead change through shared value, with a significant allocation towards environmental conservation, education, and skills training, as well as economic empowerment. I applaud the YEIC competition for its eye-opening impact, and I hope the second iteration will scale
    up in both quality and reach, to engage diverse partners in addressing environmental challenges,” he said

    On her part, the KCDF Executive Director Ms. Grace Maingi emphasized the importance of fostering and advancing innovation within the development sector, alongside efforts to control carbon emissions.

    “We aim to empower young people by recognizing their potential through the Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge. As we launch the second call for applicants, we have extended support eligibility to individuals aged 15 to 35, offering grants of up to five million shillings.
    Central to our mission is fostering sustainable change for sustainable development. To achieve this, we are committed to placing technology at the forefront. Our theme, “Green and Coded,” underscores our focus on innovative waste management solutions and digital transformations poised
    to drive future progress.” Said Ms. Maingi.

    Elizabeth Wathuti the Founder of Green Generation Initiative (GGI) observed that, the YEIC challenge arrived at a pivotal moment, serving as an empowering platform for Kenya’s youth amidst formidable competition for resources dominated by larger organizations.

    “We stand at a crucial crossroads where every decision made will shape the legacy we leave for future generations. This challenge presents us with a unique opportunity to tap into the local ingenuity and passion of young people, enabling them to lead in safeguarding their environment.” She concluded.

    Applications for the 2024 edition of the Young Environmentalist Innovation Challenge are open on the KCDF website: www.kcdf.or.ke

    Kenya Community Development Foundation (KCDF) is a public charitable foundation that supports sustainable community-driven development in Kenya. Founded in 1997, KCDF is the first homegrown Community Foundation in East Africa. We believe that complete and lasting change is possible when communities initiate and drive their development agenda with little external support.

    Therefore, KCDF works to enhance the growth and sustainability of communities through capacity development, community philanthropy, and local giving. KCDF invests significant resources to build, strengthen and sustain the core capacities of our communities by developing thoughtful, long-term collaborations with other actors such as governments, non-profit organizations, the private sector and individuals to achieve social justice. For more information visit www.kcdf.or.ke