Author: Oscar Ryan Ouma

Our Experience at Nairobi Design Week 2025

Nairobi Design Week was an incredible experience for us at Kenge Content Hive. It was our first time attending such an event, and from the moment we arrived, we could feel the excitement and energy. We were surrounded by people from all over the world—creatives, designers, artists, and innovators—who were all eager to learn, share, and connect. It was an inspiring space, and we felt proud to represent our community from Busijo, Busia on such a big platform.

At our exhibition booth, we focused on sharing the stories and traditional knowledge of the Samia community. We showed how elders in our community have used sustainable practices for generations, from farming and fishing to weather forecasting. Many visitors came to our booth to learn more about our work, and we had some great conversations about how traditional knowledge can guide modern solutions, especially when it comes to climate change and environmental conservation.

One of the most important moments for us was the panel discussion on Decolonizing Design, where we talked about how design can serve communities instead of exploiting them. We were joined by two designers, Marrie Williams and Sarah Mpapuluu, who shared their experiences working on projects that aim to empower communities through design. We also had the chance to speak on the panel, where we shared how climate change has affected our local communities in Busia. We talked about how unpredictable rainfall, prolonged droughts, and rising water levels have disrupted farming, fishing, and food security in our area. It was a golden opportunity for us to explain how traditional knowledge, like regenerative farming and sustainable fishing, can help us strengthen our climate resilience.

Mzee Manga, an elder from Busijo in the Samia community, also shared his wisdom during the panel. He talked about traditional practices that have sustained our people for generations, like planting cotton to protect the soil, using traditional fishing baskets to avoid overfishing, and reading the winds to predict the weather. His words were powerful, and it was clear that many people in the audience were inspired by his insights.

Our Projects Going Forward

During Nairobi Design Week, we introduced two major projects that we will be focusing on in our community:

1. Regeneration Festival
The Regeneration Festival will be a big community event aimed at promoting environmental conservation, climate action, and cultural revival. The goal of this festival is to bring people together—especially youth and elders—so that we can learn from each other and find solutions to the problems we face as a community. We want to create a space where people can discuss important issues like climate change, poverty, and food security while celebrating our culture and traditions. This festival will include activities like tree planting, traditional dances, storytelling, and workshops on sustainable farming, weaking and fishing.

2. Cultural Revival Program
Our second project is the Cultural Revival Program, which aims to preserve and promote the rich cultural heritage of the Samia community. We want to work closely with the County Government of Busia, especially the Department of Culture and Tourism, to make good use of the Bumbe Cultural Centre. Our plan is to decorate the center with cultural artifacts, traditional materials, and artworks that reflect the history and traditions of the Samia people. By doing this, we hope to boost eco-tourism in the area and give locals and visitors a chance to learn about and appreciate our culture. We will also be able to document and  publish our cultural and traditional practices for posterity.

We believe that these two projects will play a big role in strengthening our community and helping us build a more sustainable and resilient future. By sparking intergenerational conversations and promoting traditional knowledge, we can find solutions to the challenges we face today while also preserving our culture for future generations.

Moving Forward

Nairobi Design Week was just the beginning. Now, we are excited to take what we learned and put it into action back in our community. We are grateful to everyone who supported us at the event and to all the people who showed interest in our projects. We hope to keep working with our partners, design reparations, designers, creatives, and local leaders to achieve our vision and make a real difference in our community. Our Ultimate goal is to reclaim our power, revive our culture, and restore the dignity of our people.

By Oscar Ryan Ouma, Founder, Kenge Content Hive.

From COP28 to the Ground: Showcasing Local Resilience in the Face of Climate Change

Climate change is a global issue that affects communities at the local level. Understanding the impact of climate change on local communities is crucial for developing effective strategies to build resilience. This article explores the vulnerabilities, economic consequences, and social impacts of climate change at the local level. It also highlights the importance of investing in sustainable infrastructure, empowering local communities, and showcasing successful climate change adaptation projects. By showcasing local resilience in the face of climate change, we can inspire and motivate others to take action.

Key Takeaways

  • Understanding the vulnerabilities of local communities is essential for developing effective climate change adaptation strategies.
  • Assessing the economic consequences of climate change helps prioritize investments in resilient infrastructure.
  • Analyzing the social impacts of climate change highlights the need for community-based approaches to resilience.
  • Investing in sustainable transportation systems is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and building climate resilience.
  • Enhancing water management and conservation practices is vital for adapting to changing precipitation patterns

Understanding the Impact of Climate Change at the Local Level

Examining the Vulnerabilities of Local Communities

Local communities are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change due to their close connection to the natural environment and reliance on local resources. Extreme weather events such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts can have devastating effects on these communities, leading to loss of homes, livelihoods, and even lives.

In addition to the direct physical impacts, climate change also exacerbates existing social and economic vulnerabilities. Poverty and inequality are often magnified in the face of climate-related disasters, as marginalized communities have limited resources and access to support systems.

To address these vulnerabilities, it is crucial to prioritize community-based adaptation strategies that empower local residents and build their resilience. This includes investing in early warning systems, improving infrastructure, and providing access to resources and information.

Table: Climate Vulnerabilities in Local Communities

Vulnerability

Impacts

Food security

Decreased crop yields, increased food prices

Health

Increased risk of vector-borne diseases, heat-related illnesses

Infrastructure

Damage to buildings, roads, and utilities

By understanding the vulnerabilities of local communities, we can develop targeted and effective climate adaptation measures that protect the most vulnerable populations and ensure a sustainable future for all.

Assessing the Economic Consequences of Climate Change

Climate change has far-reaching economic consequences that cannot be ignored. The increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and droughts, pose significant risks to local economies. These events can lead to crop failures, damage to infrastructure, and disruptions in supply chains, resulting in financial losses for businesses and communities.

To illustrate the economic impact of climate change, consider the following data:

Economic Sector

Losses (in millions)

Agriculture

$500

Tourism

$300

Infrastructure

$200

This table highlights the sectors most affected by climate change and the corresponding financial losses. It is evident that climate change poses a significant threat to the economic stability of local communities.

To address these economic challenges, it is crucial for local governments and businesses to invest in climate adaptation strategies. This includes implementing measures to protect critical infrastructure, diversifying economic activities, and promoting sustainable practices. By taking proactive steps, communities can mitigate the economic consequences of climate change and build resilience for the future.

Analyzing the Social Impacts of Climate Change

Climate change has far-reaching social impacts that affect communities in various ways. One of the key social impacts is the displacement of populations due to extreme weather events and rising sea levels. This can lead to the loss of homes, livelihoods, and cultural heritage, causing significant social upheaval.

Another social impact of climate change is the exacerbation of existing inequalities. Vulnerable populations, such as low-income communities and marginalized groups, often bear the brunt of climate change impacts. They may face increased health risks, limited access to resources, and reduced economic opportunities.

To address these social impacts, it is crucial to prioritize equity and social justice in climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. This includes ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to resources, information, and decision-making processes. It also involves promoting inclusive and participatory approaches that empower communities to take action.

Table: Social Impacts of Climate Change

Social Impact

Description

Displacement of populations

Loss of homes, livelihoods, and cultural heritage

Exacerbation of inequalities

Increased health risks, limited access to resources, and reduced economic opportunities

Tip: Prioritizing social equity and justice is essential for effective climate change adaptation and resilience-building.

By understanding and addressing the social impacts of climate change, we can create more resilient and inclusive communities that are better equipped to face the challenges ahead.

Building Resilient Infrastructure for Climate Adaptation

Investing in Sustainable Transportation Systems

Investing in sustainable transportation systems is crucial for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and mitigating the impacts of climate change. By prioritizing the development of public transportation, cycling infrastructure, and electric vehicle networks, cities can significantly decrease their carbon footprint.

One effective strategy is to promote the use of electric vehicles. This can be achieved by implementing policies that incentivize the purchase of electric cars, such as tax credits or subsidies. Additionally, cities can invest in the installation of charging stations to support the growing number of electric vehicles on the road.

Another important aspect of sustainable transportation is improving public transportation. By expanding and improving public transit systems, cities can encourage more people to use public transportation instead of private cars. This not only reduces emissions but also alleviates traffic congestion and improves air quality.

To further promote sustainable transportation, cities can also invest in cycling infrastructure. Building bike lanes and providing secure bike parking facilities can encourage more people to choose cycling as a mode of transportation, reducing the reliance on cars.

In summary, investing in sustainable transportation systems is essential for combating climate change. By prioritizing public transportation, electric vehicles, and cycling infrastructure, cities can reduce emissions, improve air quality, and create more sustainable and resilient communities.

Enhancing Water Management and Conservation

Water management and conservation are crucial aspects of building resilient infrastructure for climate adaptation. Efficient water management practices can help mitigate the impacts of climate change on water resources and ensure their sustainable use. Here are some key strategies for enhancing water management and conservation:

1.    Implementing rainwater harvesting systems: Capturing and storing rainwater can help supplement water supplies during dry periods and reduce the reliance on groundwater sources.

2.    Promoting water-efficient technologies: Encouraging the use of water-saving devices, such as low-flow faucets and toilets, can significantly reduce water consumption.

3.    Investing in water infrastructure upgrades: Upgrading aging water infrastructure can improve efficiency, reduce water losses, and enhance overall water management.

Tip: Regularly monitoring water usage and implementing water conservation measures can contribute to long-term water sustainability.

By implementing these strategies, communities can enhance their resilience to climate change and ensure the availability of water resources for future generations.

Promoting Renewable Energy Solutions

Renewable energy solutions play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change and transitioning towards a sustainable future. Solar power is one of the most promising renewable energy sources, harnessing the power of the sun to generate electricity. It offers numerous benefits, including reduced greenhouse gas emissions, lower energy costs, and increased energy independence.

To promote the adoption of renewable energy, governments and organizations are implementing various strategies:

·         Incentive programs: Providing financial incentives, such as tax credits or grants, to encourage individuals and businesses to invest in renewable energy systems.

·         Net metering: Allowing individuals to sell excess electricity generated from their renewable energy systems back to the grid, reducing their energy bills.

·         Community solar projects: Enabling communities to collectively invest in solar energy systems, making renewable energy accessible to those who may not have the resources for individual installations.

Tip: When considering renewable energy solutions, it's important to assess the local resources, such as solar radiation and wind patterns, to determine the most suitable options for each region.

Empowering Local Communities to Take Action

Engaging Youth in Climate Activism

Engaging youth in climate activism is crucial for creating a sustainable future. Young people have been at the forefront of the global movement for climate action, demanding urgent change and holding governments and corporations accountable. Their passion, energy, and fresh perspectives bring new ideas and innovative solutions to the table.

To effectively engage youth in climate activism, it is important to:

·         Provide platforms for young voices to be heard and valued.

·         Foster education and awareness about climate change and its impacts.

·         Encourage youth-led initiatives and projects that address local climate challenges.

·         Collaborate with youth organizations and networks to amplify their impact.

Tip: Encourage youth to participate in local climate action through workshops, events, and campaigns. Empower them to take leadership roles and make a difference in their communities.

By empowering youth and involving them in decision-making processes, we can ensure that their perspectives and ideas are taken into account when developing climate change policies and strategies.

Supporting Indigenous Knowledge and Practices

Indigenous communities have a deep understanding of their local ecosystems and have developed sustainable practices that have been passed down through generations. Preserving and supporting indigenous knowledge is crucial for building resilience in the face of climate change.

One way to support indigenous knowledge is through collaborative partnerships between indigenous communities and scientific researchers. By combining traditional knowledge with scientific expertise, innovative solutions can be developed to address climate change challenges.

Additionally, cultural revitalization plays a significant role in supporting indigenous knowledge and practices. By celebrating and promoting indigenous cultures, communities can strengthen their resilience and preserve their traditional practices.

To ensure the continued preservation and support of indigenous knowledge, it is essential to respect and value the contributions of indigenous communities. This includes recognizing their rights, involving them in decision-making processes, and providing resources and support for their initiatives.

Supporting indigenous knowledge and practices is not only beneficial for indigenous communities but also for the broader society. By integrating traditional practices into climate change adaptation strategies, we can create more holistic and effective approaches to building resilience.

Fostering Collaboration between Local Stakeholders

Collaboration between local stakeholders is crucial in addressing the challenges of climate change. By working together, communities, businesses, and organizations can pool their resources, knowledge, and expertise to develop effective strategies and solutions.

One way to foster collaboration is through regular meetings and workshops where stakeholders can share their experiences, ideas, and best practices. These gatherings provide a platform for networking, learning from each other, and building relationships that can lead to long-term partnerships.

Another important aspect of collaboration is the establishment of joint projects and initiatives. By combining efforts and resources, stakeholders can tackle climate change issues more effectively. For example, a collaboration between a local government, a non-profit organization, and a community group can result in the implementation of a climate adaptation project that benefits the entire community.

Tip: Building trust and maintaining open communication are key factors in fostering successful collaboration between local stakeholders.

Showcasing Successful Climate Change Adaptation Projects

Case Study: Resilient Agriculture Practices          

Resilient agriculture practices play a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change on local communities. These practices focus on enhancing the adaptive capacity of agricultural systems to withstand extreme weather events and changing climatic conditions.

One example of a resilient agriculture practice is the use of drought-resistant crop varieties. By cultivating crops that are more tolerant to water scarcity, farmers can reduce the risk of crop failure and ensure food security even in drought-prone regions.

Another important aspect of resilient agriculture is soil conservation. Implementing techniques such as contour plowing, terracing, and cover cropping helps prevent soil erosion and improves soil health, making it more resilient to climate-related challenges.

Additionally, crop diversification is a key strategy for building resilience in agriculture. By growing a variety of crops, farmers can spread their risks and reduce vulnerability to climate-related pests, diseases, and market fluctuations.

In summary, resilient agriculture practices involve the use of drought-resistant crop varieties, soil conservation techniques, and crop diversification to enhance the adaptive capacity of agricultural systems and ensure food security in the face of climate change.

Case Study: Urban Planning for Climate Resilience

Urban planning plays a crucial role in building climate resilience in cities. By incorporating climate change considerations into urban planning processes, cities can better prepare for the impacts of climate change and ensure the long-term sustainability of their communities.

One important aspect of urban planning for climate resilience is the integration of green infrastructure. Green infrastructure, such as parks, green roofs, and permeable pavements, can help mitigate the effects of climate change by reducing urban heat island effects, managing storm water runoff, and improving air quality.

In addition to green infrastructure, urban planning for climate resilience also involves the development of adaptive building codes and regulations. These codes and regulations ensure that new buildings and infrastructure are designed to withstand the changing climate conditions, such as increased temperatures, extreme weather events, and sea-level rise.

By implementing these strategies, cities can create more resilient and sustainable urban environments that are better equipped to withstand the challenges of climate change.

Case Study: Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction

Community-based disaster risk reduction (CBDRR) is a crucial approach in building resilience at the local level. It involves active participation and collaboration among community members, local authorities, and relevant stakeholders to identify and address disaster risks. CBDRR initiatives aim to strengthen the capacity of communities to prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.

One example of a successful CBDRR project is the implementation of early warning systems. These systems provide timely and accurate information about impending disasters, allowing communities to take necessary precautions and evacuate if needed. By investing in early warning systems, communities can significantly reduce the loss of lives and property during disasters.

In addition to early warning systems, CBDRR projects also focus on building the resilience of critical infrastructure. This includes retrofitting buildings to withstand natural hazards, improving drainage systems to prevent flooding, and implementing measures to protect essential services such as healthcare facilities and schools.

A key aspect of CBDRR is the inclusion of marginalized groups and vulnerable populations. It is important to ensure that the needs and perspectives of these groups are taken into account in disaster risk reduction efforts. By empowering marginalized communities and involving them in decision-making processes, CBDRR projects can be more effective and equitable.

Community-based disaster risk reduction is an essential strategy for building resilience at the local level. By engaging communities, investing in early warning systems, strengthening critical infrastructure, and promoting inclusivity, we can enhance our ability to withstand and recover from disasters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the journey from COP28 to the ground has showcased the resilience of local communities in the face of climate change. Through innovative solutions, collaboration, and a deep understanding of their unique challenges, these communities have demonstrated their ability to adapt and thrive. However, it is important to recognize that the fight against climate change is far from over. Continued support and investment in local initiatives is crucial to ensure long-term sustainability and resilience. Together, we can create a future where communities are not just surviving, but thriving in the face of climate challenges.

The writer, Oscar Ryan Ouma is the Founder of Kenge Content Hive and an award winner of "Local Stories of Resilience" by the Global Center on Adaptatiom (GCA) and the Climate and Development Knowledge Network.(CDKN)

Empowering Rural Communities: The Vital Link between Climate and Health

Climate change and its profound impact on health have become undeniable realities, with the consequences felt worldwide. Beyond rising temperatures and extreme weather events, climate change significantly affects human health, exacerbating diseases, compromising food and water security, and triggering mental health challenges. In the face of this interconnected crisis, empowering rural communities is not just an option but a necessity.

Rural communities, often on the frontline of climate change, bear a disproportionate burden of its health consequences. Limited resources, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and dependency on climate-sensitive sectors make these communities particularly vulnerable. To address this, a holistic approach is imperative, starting with joint advocacy, action, and accountability right at the grassroots level.

The foundation of climate-resilient health practices must be laid within rural communities. Empowering these communities involves not only raising awareness but also actively involving them in decision-making processes. Investing in community-led initiatives, such as sustainable agriculture, clean water access, and climate-resilient infrastructure, is pivotal.

Community empowerment goes beyond providing solutions; it involves fostering a sense of ownership and resilience. Joint advocacy efforts should amplify local voices, ensuring that the unique challenges faced by rural communities are heard at regional and global platforms. Community-driven action plans, tailored to specific needs, become crucial tools for building resilience and ensuring sustainable health outcomes.

Investing in rural communities is an investment in the broader climate and health agenda. Strengthening healthcare systems, providing access to education, and fostering economic opportunities are integral components. Local solutions should be integrated into larger frameworks, emphasizing the importance of adaptation, mitigation, and sustainable development.

As we navigate the complex web of climate and health challenges, our focus must shift to the roots—the rural communities that are often overlooked. Only through joint advocacy, action, and accountability can we create a future where climate-resilient health practices thrive, ensuring the well-being of all, irrespective of their geographical location. The time to invest in rural communities is now, for a healthier, more sustainable tomorrow.

  • The writer, Oscar Ryan Ouma is the Founder of Kenge Content Hive and an award winner of "Local Stories of Resilience" by the Global Center on Adaptatiom (GCA) and the Climate and Development Knowledge Network.(CDKN)

Early Warning Systems: Safeguarding Our Communities from Droughts and the Ravages of Budalangi Floods

In our Lake Basin region, the devastating impacts of droughts and floods have become all too familiar. The rising water levels and the effects of climate change have placed our communities at heightened risk. However, amidst these challenges, there is hope. The implementation of robust early warning systems offers a lifeline to our communities, enabling timely action and resilience. In this article, we explore the importance of early warning systems in mitigating the impacts of droughts and floods, focusing on the case of Budalangi and its recurring floods.

The Power of Timely Information:

Early warning systems act as a crucial tool in preparing for and responding to disasters. They provide timely and accurate risk information, empowering individuals, communities, and authorities to take proactive measures. In the case of Budalangi, an area prone to frequent and devastating floods, early warnings play a critical role in alerting residents and enabling them to evacuate and protect their lives and property.

Empowering Communities:

Engaging youth leaders, who are at the forefront of innovation and change, is vital in ensuring effective early warning systems. Youth can play a pivotal role in disseminating flood risk information and raising awareness within their communities. By harnessing their energy, knowledge, and influence, we can ensure that the most vulnerable individuals receive the information they need to take necessary precautions and mitigate the impacts of floods.

Harnessing Technological Innovations:

Technological advancements offer powerful tools for enhancing early warning systems. Mobile applications, SMS-based systems, and community radio programs can be utilized to deliver flood warnings and evacuation instructions directly to residents' devices. These technologies enable rapid and widespread dissemination of critical information, allowing individuals to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions to protect themselves and their families.

Building a Culture of Preparedness:

Beyond disseminating information, early warning systems aim to cultivate a culture of preparedness. In Budalangi, this can involve educating residents about flood preparedness, such as the importance of having emergency kits, developing evacuation plans, and understanding the signs of an impending flood. Training in first aid and post-flood recovery can also empower communities to respond effectively and recover more quickly.

The Importance of Collaboration:

Effective early warning systems rely on collaboration among various stakeholders. Collaboration between government agencies, local community organizations, and youth leaders is crucial. By working together, sharing resources, and coordinating efforts, we can enhance our resilience and response capabilities. The experiences and insights of Budalangi's residents, coupled with the expertise of government and community organizations, can shape more effective early warning systems tailored to the unique challenges of the area.

Early warning systems hold the key to safeguarding our communities from the devastating impacts of droughts along the basin and the recurring floods of Budalangi. By embracing technological innovations, empowering youth leaders, and fostering collaborative partnerships, we can build a culture of preparedness and resilience. Let us come together, harness the power of early warning systems, and work towards a safer and more resilient future for Budalangi and our region as a whole. Together, we can face the challenges of climate change and protect the well-being of our people.

Breaking the Chains of Illiteracy: Addressing the Multi-faceted Challenges in Busia County’s Lake Victoria Basin

In Busia County, Kenya, the fight against illiteracy faces complex challenges that require urgent attention. Beyond the allure of motorbike credit schemes, the practice of leaving education for fishing, and the perils of illegal activities, additional factors exacerbate the struggle for education and economic progress. Predatory practices within motorbike credit schemes, leading to theft and violence, as well as the practice of illegal fishing resulting in arrests by the Ugandan Police, further deepen the plight of the youth and communities in Busia County's Lake Victoria Basin. In this article, we explore the profound impact of these challenges, examine the consequences faced by individuals, and advocate for holistic solutions that promote literacy, protect livelihoods, and foster sustainable practices.

Predatory Motorbike Loans and the Loss of Livelihoods: Motorbike credit schemes present a significant challenge to education and economic stability in the region. Many young individuals, driven by the need for immediate income generation, opt to abandon their studies and take on loans to purchase motorbikes. In some cases, they go to extreme lengths such as selling their land, a valuable asset, to acquire these motorbikes. However, as borrowers near the completion of their loan payments, they become vulnerable to predatory practices. Unscrupulous lenders seize motorbikes from borrowers, often resorting to theft and violence. Tragically, these incidents not only result in the loss of livelihoods but also perpetuate a cycle of poverty and illiteracy within the community.This pursuit of short-term financial gains hampers educational development, perpetuates illiteracy, and limits future opportunities for these young people and this has become a nation wide menace.

Illegal Fishing and the Cycle of Arrests: Along the shores of Lake Victoria, the practice of illegal fishing further compounds the challenges faced by the region. Drawn by the immediate need for income, some individuals engage in illegal fishing activities, disregarding environmental regulations and sustainable practices. As a consequence, the Ugandan Police frequently arrest individuals involved in these activities. The arrests disrupt lives, hinder educational progress, and perpetuate a cycle of limited opportunities and illiteracy within the community.

Comprehensive Solutions for Sustainable Progress: Addressing the multi-faceted challenges in Busia County's Lake Victoria Basin requires a comprehensive and collaborative approach. There is a need for increased regulation and oversight of motorbike credit schemes to protect borrowers from predatory practices. This can be achieved through partnerships between government agencies, financial institutions, and community organizations, ensuring transparency, fair lending practices, and borrower protection. Simultaneously, efforts must be directed towards promoting sustainable fishing practices and protecting the region's natural resources. Collaboration between local authorities, fishing associations, and community leaders is essential in raising awareness about the environmental impact of illegal fishing and advocating for responsible fishing techniques. By supporting initiatives that provide alternative livelihood options, vocational training, and entrepreneurship opportunities, individuals can escape the cycle of illegal fishing and pursue sustainable economic pathways. Additionally, investing in quality education and literacy programs is crucial for breaking the chains of illiteracy. By ensuring access to educational resources, promoting literacy campaigns, and fostering a culture that values education, individuals can expand their horizons, enhance their opportunities, and contribute to the overall development of the community.

Conclusion: In Busia County's Lake Victoria Basin, the challenges of illiteracy, predatory motorbike loans, and illegal fishing present complex barriers to educational and economic progress. To overcome these challenges, it is imperative to prioritize literacy as a fundamental human right and invest in comprehensive educational initiatives. This includes providing accessible and quality education, promoting adult literacy programs, and addressing the underlying socio-economic factors that contribute to illiteracy, by addressing these challenges holistically, we can create lasting change and empower individuals and communities. Through strengthened regulations, increased awareness, collaborative efforts, and investment in education and sustainable practices, we can break the chains of illiteracy, protect livelihoods, and build a brighter future for the youth of Busia County's Lake Victoria Basin, our nation and the World at Large. Let us unite in our commitment to fostering literacy, economic empowerment, and environmental stewardship, ensuring a sustainable and prosperous region for generations to come.

The writer is a passionate Environmental Activist and a Systems Change Advocate.

It’s time for youth to act in helping shape Climate Change Agenda.

Climate Change, Our Problem and Prime Concern.

"Visionary People face the same problems everyone else face; but rather than get paralyzed by their problems, Visionaries immediately commit themselves by finding a solution"

Lake Victoria Basin is under myriad environmental threats including Biodiversity loss, Habitat destruction, massive soil erosion and pollution. It's now estimated that the lake's indegineous fish species have been reduced by 80% and over 70% of forest cover in catchment area has been lost. In terms of pollution in the lake, we can best term it as " community septic tank" with how the practice of discarding rubbish and sewerage in the lake is common which inturn has led to detoriation of water quality and cause of water related diseases such as malaria and bilharzia.

With all the crystal clear environmental threats facing L.V.B and the globe, it takes visionaries to rise up and make a change. It took a Nature Enthusiast, Oscar Ryan Ouma to learn the act of changing and turning his feelings and reactions into a thirst and hunger to want to do something about the evident challenge of deforestation and climate change in the communities along lake Victoria basin, after having and suffering from ecological grief witnessing nothing being done when natural world is drastically changing before our eyes. This led to coming up with an idea that founded Kenge Content Hive, a youth led non-profit Community Based organization that works with communities along lake Victoria basin on Environmental Protection, Health and sanitation, Nature Conservation, Youth and economic empowerment and Sustainable development through Education, Advocacy and Activism. KCH aims to create a generation of Environmentally responsive persons in the community by running programmes on Environmental health and protection while also focusing on tree growing for impact to help fully implement nature based solutions to the climate crisis.

Many of today's environmental challenges along lake Victoria basin and around the globe are responsible for adversely affecting the health and livelihoods of individuals and communities, and so, if we fail to protect and restore nature and if as Youths we fail to lead and participate in the restoration and protection process, we will totally fail to prevent and help reduce vulnerability to future pandemics and calamitous climate change breakdown. As we fully recover from Covid 19 pandemic, Environmental health stands as a very crucial component of overall health prime concern to inform policy responses in the preparedness for future pandemics and secure the future.

There have been several efforts to conserve natural resources of lake Victoria basin but all haven't been fruitful due to short term period of projects, Limited awareness of results, ineffectiveness and Limited Funding. Collaboratively working together, the challenges can be reduced through; Strengthening ability of institutions to do work, sharing of Content and best practices, partnerships for goals:helping institutions work together well, Better and matching policies and regulations across institutions and agencies, Encouraging stakeholders to take action, Regular Funding, Educating the public on various alternative sources of livelihoods and creating a conducive space that will allow organizations tap into other investment opportunities.

In KCH viewpoint, going it alone can't be successful and this conversation about climate change should be a young person's problem and prime concern. Untrammeled minds of youths like me and you have the most potential to succeed especially when we can see and feel for ourselves on what is happening to our surrounding. To the youths, the time is now! Lets rise up and make a change!..

The writer is an international environmental ambassador at Vikela.earth , the founder of Kenge Content Hive Organization and a Member of Green Commodities community.

Lets save Lake Victoria

Lets Act NOW to save Lake Victoria

Lets Act Now, to save Lake Victoria.

Lake Victoria is the largest fresh water lake in Africa and second largest in the world. Located in the upper reaches of River Nile Basin. Its catchment area is surrounded by mountains on all sides. The lake harbours vast natural resources including fisheries, Forests, hills and wetlands. It's a major source of livelihoods to more than fourty million people around it in three countries (Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania) and a home to about 300 different species of fish and various species of animals.

The Lake Victoria basin supports one of the densest  and poorest rural populations in the world with densities of up to 1300 persons/km2 in parts of Kenya. With a rising Population along the basin in Kenya that is made up of 11 counties, new obstacles  and hurdles have emerged that require urgent interventions and actions by Conservationists, Policy makers and various stake holders to rescue and   save the lake. Human Activities on the shores of lake Victoria basin Kenya continue to seriously impact on the ecosystem through intense agricultural activities like Cultivation, Over fishing and Livestock farming. The major upshot is deforestation, Loss of Plant life and Animal and coupled with the mentioned above is the massive invasion of water hyacinth that continues to choke the lake and large volumes of algal Bloom that have formed mainly along the lake shores that look like a green paint on lake surface and has a disgusting stench and a threat to safe drinking water and livelihoods.

Photo taken by Ryan Oscar

Algal Bloom along the shores of Lake Victoria In Busijo Beach in Busia County in Kenya.

Various Researchers have noted that we are already experiencing  the impacts of degradation. For example;  Water levels continue to rise  while submerging  Prominent Hotels along the basin and various beaches like Buyukha Beach in Busijo, Busia County In Kenya. As the phantom of Economic and Humanitarian crisis looms larger around lake Victoria basin in Kenya because of increasing water levels that continue to seriously erode shore lines, displacing settlements, causing floods and massive damage to the economy, there is Urgent need to enforce Environmental protection policies and measures  to help protect encroachment, protect water catchment areas that will help control silting and  control pollutants entering the lake. The protective measures are yet insufficient  and the Quality of multi stake holder collaborations is very low. 

There is Urgent need for awareness on Environmental challenges along lake Victoria Basin because we cant Adapt to Loss and damage and since Climate change is about the people being impacted. Various projects and commissions have been created with  a task of coordinating interventions towards sustainable  utilization of the Lake and its resources and has identified among various other issues: Major inadequacies in policy, Laws and institutions especially in addressing emerging issues like Climate change. Rising temperatures, rise of new economic activities like fish cage farming, change in rainfall patterns are emerging threats to the progress made in managing the lake and its resources.  

In the absence of well coordinated , supported urgent actions towards livelihoods enhancement and efforts towards ecosystem restoration, the lake won't be in a position to sustainably continue to provide it's Ecosystem services. It's every ones responsibility to maintain healthy environment and also its of much importance for the National Environment Authority (NEMA), Lake Victoria Basin Commission (LVBC) and other responsible organizations to escalate actions, awareness, alternatives and enforcement towards environmental protection and climate mitigation along Lake Victoria Basin because we cannot adapt to loss and damage. 

The Writer is the Founder of Kenge Content Hive, a Youth led non-profit organization that works on Environmental Protection, Nature Conservation and sustainable development along lake Victoria basin in Kenya.