Kenya is losing 373.9 billion every year to malnutrition, experts have said. This is equivalent to 6.9 percent of the Gross Domestic Product.

Kilifi County, a coastal region, is among the areas heavily affected by malnutrition. According to the Kilifi County malnutrition survey conducted in August 2021, nearly one in two children aged two and below are suffering from malnutrition, while 65 percent of children aged five are not receiving adequate nutrition to thrive. “Some of their mothers cannot produce enough milk due to the severe economic challenges imposed by the ongoing drought in the area,” said Nzomo, a nurse at Kaloleni Dispensary.

Nzomo added that babies are often forced to eat unsweetened maize meal (porridge) daily, which is unsuitable for children at such a critical age. Last year’s survey revealed that more than 15,000 children under the age of two suffer from acute malnutrition, and tragically, only 300 of these have reached our facilities,” said Dr. Nyawa Benzadze, a nutritionist at Kilifi County Referral Hospital. The worst-hit regions are Ganze and Magarini Sub-County. The situation is exacerbated as Kilifi faces the impacts of climate change, including floods and drought. (The Standard newspaper – link)

As a teacher, I have witnessed this situation firsthand. Having visited more than a hundred schools in Kilifi County, from nursery to secondary schools, I have seen the harsh realities of life in this region. Driving from the small town of Malindi onto the dust-filled roads of Xhogwani village in Marafa, I encounter students eager to learn. After registering at the school office, I am guided around by the gateman, who is also a groundsman. I am fortunate to meet the students outside on a sunny day, with temperatures reaching 28 degrees Celsius.

I spot a young boy, around 15 years old, whom I’ll call Charo. Charo seems focused and passionate about returning to class, completing primary education, and advancing to high school, and eventually university. However, given Charo’s health and the visible signs of malnutrition, it’s clear that what he needs most is fresh food, not advanced academic lessons. Early in the morning, Charo has a sorrowful expression. When I engage him, he begins to shed tears and explains that he hasn’t eaten since he left school on Friday. The only meal he had was a cup of tea given by the teacher as a reward for answering all nine questions correctly in a math exercise.

As I tour the school, I notice it has a large farm, though part of the land has been encroached upon by neighbors who plant cassava and maize. During the rainy season, the fertility of the land is apparent in the health of the maize and cassava. However, this is not consistent year-round, as farmers often struggle with changing rainfall patterns due to climate change. This is the same community from which Charo comes. The situation worsens at home, as the community still believes that maize and cassava are the only viable crops.

Charo is forced to walk 18 kilometers to reach the nearest school from his home and another 18 kilometers back in the evening. This distance is comparable to that covered by marathon runners. Charo’s journey is not for medals but for survival—walking long distances in the hot sun without a balanced diet while hoping to acquire knowledge and improve his family’s situation in the future. At school, despite the vast land, Charo and over 500 other students lack a green space for shade. The classrooms are in poor condition, lacking basic amenities like windows, desks, and doors. On sunny days, the children sweat all day in class, sitting on the floor and struggling with dust from the bare ground. Charo is just one among many students I have encountered in my professional journey as a teacher in an area severely impacted by climate change.

Imagine if this school had a fruit orchard where Charo could pick mangoes, oranges, and passion fruits during break time. How happy would Charo be, and how motivated would he be to attend school? After enjoying the fruits, Charo could teach his community to embrace planting fruit trees. Oranges, mangoes, and passion fruits thrive in this region. With mature fruit trees, the school community would better withstand changing rainfall patterns. If the school had one acre of fruit trees—about 500 trees—yielding 100 fruits per tree on the first harvest, that would total 50,000 fruits. This surplus would provide the students and their families with essential vitamins, and the excess could be sold to fund school infrastructure improvements.

Inspired by this vision, Onemilliontrees4kilifi was founded, focusing on “Calling Back the Rains.” One of our major goals is to create fruit orchards in 400 schools in Kilifi to combat malnutrition, create mini forests, and encourage communities to replicate these projects in their villages. Establishing one acre of fruit orchard requires only 150,000 Ksh, totaling 120,000,000 Ksh to create 800 acres of fruit orchards in Kilifi. By achieving this, we can provide 200,000 children like Charo with daily fruit and enable the 400 schools in Kilifi to generate income for infrastructure upgrades, ultimately reducing the malnutrition rate in the county and saving money spent on combating it.

We have already created the first fruit orchard at Shomani Girls’ School https://youtube.com/watch?v=yIrl_bU7ZzQ&si=AClsleZ0YAVTBTFf by planting 300 mango trees, 50 passion fruit plants, and 30 pawpaw trees in collaboration with the Open Institute and the school administration. You can be part of this noble journey by sharing this message, connecting us with helpful networks, or donating. Reach us at onemilliontreeskilifi@gmail.com or +254707266031.

In the Coastal town of Kilifi, Kenya, a transformative event is intricated over three dynamic days, bringing together 50 passionate youth from diverse backgrounds, including the dedicated OneMillionTrees4Kilifi group. The Kilifi Pre-LCOY 2024 conference on Adaptation and Climate Finance was a driving force and action, aligning perfectly with this year’s theme: “Building Generations for Climate Resilience.” This blog delves into the conference’s key discussions, groundbreaking insights, and the vibrant energy that characterized this landmark event.

---

Setting the Stage for Climate Action

Opening Ceremonies and Expectations

The conference commenced with an inspiring welcome from Mr Sam, who set the tone for the upcoming discussions. Mr. Sam, the MC for the day, provided a comprehensive overview of the conference’s goals, emphasizing the importance of truth and inclusivity in discussions. Participants were encouraged to engage actively and share ideas in an environment respectful of diverse perspectives.

The ground rules were clear: maintain confidentiality when discussing private matters, respect all viewpoints, and engage actively in both discussions and social media interactions using the hashtags #LCOYKE2024 and #JustClimateTransition. The conference aimed to foster a collaborative atmosphere where youth could explore and influence climate policies and finance opportunities effectively.

Introduction to LCOY

Japheth from the LCOY secretariat provided a detailed overview of the Local Conference of Youth (LCOY), highlighting its role in shaping the youth position paper for the Conference of Parties (COP). This year’s theme, “Building Generations for Climate Resilience,” reflects the urgency of preparing future generations to tackle climate challenges. Japheth also outlined the objectives of the pre-LCOY conference, which included capacity building, understanding climate frameworks, and leveraging climate finance opportunities.

Insights from Keynote Speakers

The first day featured an acoustic address by Mr. James, the ALIN Regional Director, who acknowledged the participants’ dedication to climate action and the significance of their contributions. His words resonated deeply, accentuating the vital role of youth in shaping climate policies and driving local initiatives.

Delving into Climate Policy and Finance

The second day of the conference was marked by a deep dive into climate policy frameworks, led by Wakili Kelly Banda. The session traced the evolution of climate agreements from the establishment of the UNFCCC in 1992 to the anticipated Dubai Climate Accords in 2023. Key milestones included:

• Kyoto Protocol (1997 – 2012): Introduced binding emission reduction targets for developed nations.
• Paris Agreement (2015 – Present): Set ambitious global temperature limits and introduced Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
• Katowice Climate Package (2018): Finalized the rulebook for the Paris Agreement.
• Glasgow Climate Pact (2021): Called for accelerated action on coal power and fossil fuel subsidies.

Kenya’s Climate Policy Landscape

Kenya’s proactive role in climate action was highlighted, with emphasis on its National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP) and Climate Change Act (2016). These frameworks showcase Kenya’s commitment to integrating climate action into national development strategies and enhancing resilience across various sectors.

System Thinking and Environmental Sustainability

The concept of system thinking, presented by Lynn, offered a holistic approach to understanding environmental challenges. This methodology emphasizes interconnectedness, feedback loops, and emergent properties within environmental systems. Key applications include:

• Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation: Identifying leverage points for significant impact and developing comprehensive adaptation strategies.
• Resource Management: Promoting sustainable use of resources and managing ecosystem services.
• Pollution Control and Waste Management: Implementing comprehensive strategies for pollution control and advancing waste reduction.

The session acuated the importance of a systemic perspective in crafting effective environmental policies and solutions.

Hands-On Learning and Networking

The afternoon was dedicated to interactive sessions, where participants engaged in practical exercises related to creating perfect societies and policy development. Networking opportunities allowed attendees to forge connections and collaborate on climate action initiatives.

Unlocking Climate Finance Opportunities

Understanding Climate Finance

Day three focused on the intricacies of climate finance, with Collins Otieno leading a session on key financial mechanisms. The workshop covered:

• Global Frameworks: The Green Climate Fund (GCF) and the Global Environment Facility (GEF) play crucial roles in channeling funds for climate mitigation and adaptation projects.
• Kenya’s Experience: Insights into how Kenya integrates climate finance into its development strategies, supported by international and domestic funding sources.

Funding Opportunities for Youth

Mr. Bob’s session highlighted various funding opportunities for youth-led climate initiatives, including the Next Level Grant Facility and Emergency Grants. These funding mechanisms are designed to support community-based projects and address urgent climate-related challenges.

FLOCA: Financing Locally Led Climate Action

The conference featured a presentation by the Climate Change Director, Kanundu, on the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLOCA) fund. FLOCA aims to empower local communities by providing flexible funding and capacity-building support for climate projects. Key features include:

• Local Empowerment: Prioritizing projects led by local stakeholders to ensure context-specific solutions.
• Capacity Building: Enhancing the ability of local organizations to manage and implement climate projects effectively.
• Rapid Response: Providing quick funding responses to address urgent climate challenges.

Kilifi’s Local Climate Action

The director also shared details about the funding allocated to Kilifi County, including 147 million KSH for local climate projects. Notable initiatives include a community seedbed project at Badabaso Ward, demonstrating the tangible impact of FLOCA funding on local communities.

A Call to Action

The Kilifi Pre-LCOY 2024 conference concluded with a celebration of the most engaged participants, who were recognized for their active contributions and innovative ideas. The event not only equipped youth with valuable knowledge and skills but also ignited a sense of urgency and responsibility to drive climate action.

As the conference drew to a close, the collective energy and commitment of the participants showed the potential for youth-led initiatives to effect meaningful change. With a clear understanding of climate policies, finance mechanisms, and system thinking, the youth of Kilifi are poised to lead the charge in building a resilient and sustainable future.

The Kilifi Pre-LCOY 2024 conference was proof of the power of youth advocacy and the importance of collaborative action in addressing the climate crisis. As we look ahead to the main LCOY conference and beyond, the lessons learned and connections made during these three days will undoubtedly shape the future of climate resilience and action.

Here is the link for some of the work the grass root organisation in Kilifi County do. https://www.linkedin.com/feed https://youtu.be/yIrl_bU7ZzQ?si=7cWD4QpnlB2-aHW5

Do you remember the controversial story of baobab exportation from Kilifi to Shekvetili Dendrological Park Ltd in Ureki, Ozurgeti Municipality, Georgia? Let me take you through it. https://www.dw.com/en/kenya-africas-tree-of-life-faces-multiple-threats/video-68201020

In 2022, a multimillion-dollar company approached the residents of Tenzo Mabuyuni, a village in Kilifi County, Kenya. They expressed interest in buying mature baobab trees, which some claimed to be older than “Jesus.” After surveying the village, they identified and uprooted eight fully-grown baobabs. This trade was not easy. It required numerous certifications. After a push-and-pull that reached the highest office in the land. A court order that was issued halt the exportation but later canceled. Despite local community leaders voicing countless reasons against exporting their heritage. The eight trees were escorted by uniformed police from Tenzo to BOFA, a mini harbor that served as a storage and treatment facility for the baobabs. The next day, residents were shocked to see the trees they revered being loaded onto ships and ferried through the Indian Ocean to Georgia for a newly constructed botanical garden.

Today, we revisited Mabuyuni village in Tenzo to follow up and understand how the community is faring after being coerced into selling the baobabs. Instead of the bright faces I met while making a documentary just after they had sold the baobabs last year with DW, an international television channel, we encountered faces of regret and sorrow. Over 400 students, aged 5 to 15, were visibly hungry. We became interested in understanding the entire situation. The person who could explain the story in depth was the Village Elder. When we asked for Mzee wa Nyumba Kumi (the village elder), his daughter, who was selling mahamri (one piece for 5 Ksh), informed us he wasn’t available.

The youngest daughter of Mzee wa Nyumba Kumi then directed us to Mr. Davis, the elder’s son and the manager of St. Imani Primary School. We found Mr. Davis in a meeting with teachers. He welcomed us and offered us seats in front of two classrooms still under construction but already occupied by eager learners. Around the compound, we saw a cut baobab tree and several unfinished classrooms lacking windows, with students sitting on wooden planks supported by stones.

Remembering my last visit to this village, the residents were initially happy about selling the baobabs. They did not regret selling the trees as they were promised many benefits by the purchasing company. When I asked Mr. Davis about the situation, his demeanor changed abruptly. He told us that the company never kept their promises.

In August 2022, visitors referred from Tanzania to a man named Yusuf in Kilifi sought to buy the oldest and healthiest baobab trees in the village. With a few already purchased in Tanzania, they heard Kilifi had some of the most renowned baobabs. The buyer, Mr. George, believed to be acting on behalf of the botanical garden in Georgia, assisted by Yusuf, began assessing the trees. After confirming the trees met their needs, they identified eight trees to purchase.

Mr. George and Yusuf negotiated with the farmers, offering at least 100,000 Kenyan shillings per tree and additional benefits. Mr. George promised to provide visas to Georgia for the families to see the trees in their new home, upgrade their living standards by building them new houses, replace the cut trees with a thousand fruit trees, drill a borehole for community use, and build a state-of-the-art school. These promises were too good to resist, so the farmers agreed to sell the trees.

The deal was sealed, and the farmers signed agreements with Mr. George, which stated that he should first meet the promises made before engaging in any activity of uprooting and transporting the trees. Being a cunning person with experience and talent for conning communities, he began to renovate two classrooms at St. Imani Primary School (remember, he had promised to build a state-of-the-art school for the community). Mr. George now convinced the farmers and the community that, because he had already started fulfilling his promises, they should allow him to uproot the trees so that when he was done with constructing the classes, he would be ready to transport the trees. Therefore, they allowed him to construct the classes and start uprooting the trees simultaneously. The farmers agreed, and the baobabs were uprooted one after the other, an activity that only lasted one month and finished before the first classroom had been constructed.

The baobabs had been uprooted in eight different places, and they were being treated to avoid wilting. Mr. George further convinced the farmers that for him to have an easy task treating them, the trees were to be assembled in one location, which meant transporting the trees from the village to the mini harbor. The farmers again fell for this; the first baobab, nicknamed Tenzo 1, was transported to Bofa. This led to public outcry and resistance from environmental activists. A court order was issued, and the transportation of the remaining seven was halted. After two weeks of investigation, it was noted that the firm had been given permission from NEMA, Kenya Forest, County Government and all the relevant government agencies. The court had no choice but to lift the ban they had issued.

The other seven baobabs were then transported with the help of police in uniform controlling the traffic on the road, a distance of 69 kilometers. It did not take long before the baobab trees were shipped to Georgia by a company known as Seaweed. The farmers were convinced that after the trees had been transported, money would hit their accounts immediately. They were wrong; it took another court order to force Mr. George to pay the farmers. The workers who were working at the school stopped working due to a lack of building materials and their salaries

As of now, the community has heard nothing from Mr. George, and none of his promises have been fulfilled the two classes he was renovating is what they where left with. No houses, boreholes, or schools have been built. Over 400 students are studying in unfinished structures with no windows, doors, or proper seating. Despite these challenges, the students remain dedicated to their education. It was a big pozi scheme with cover up from powerful officials in Kenya. The saddest part is, Mr George reports that he saved the Baobabs from destruction because the government wanted to build a road, therefore the trees where going to be uprooted and destroyed which is a big lie.

As people admire the first uprooted baobab, now nicknamed Tenzo One, rumored to be older than “Jesus”, it’s important to note that the community was deceived into signing contracts that were never honored. A significant piece of their heritage was taken with the help of government officials, leaving the community with no recourse for justice. We call upon international organizations, goodwill citizens, and those who care about preserving heritage and securing a brighter future for communities worldwide to help the residents of Kilifi get justice.

While the world discusses carbon credits, where people can benefit from the trees on their land, there are those who exploit this resource without fulfilling their promises.The only way to help the community is to see St. Imani Primary School build to help the little ones who had hopes of learning in modern classes see there dreams met. You can reach us at onemilliontreeskilifi@gmail.

 In the heart of Kilifi County, Kenya, a profound transformation is unfolding—one that I’ve been privileged to witness and contribute to. My journey with “OneMillionTrees4Kilifi” has been nothing short of inspiring, as we strive to address malnutrition and cultivate a greener, more vibrant environment. As someone deeply passionate about community development, joining the cause of “OneMillionTrees4Kilifi” was a natural fit. The vision was bold yet simple: plant a million fruit trees in 400 schools. Little did I know that this initiative would not only combat malnutrition but also sow the seeds of environmental consciousness in the hearts of our community’s youngest members.

Beyond the compounds, our mission extends to the bustling heart of Malindi-Kilifi, a town that yearns for more green spaces. The Green City Initiative became a rallying cry, urging everyone to turn urban expanses into havens of biodiversity. One project, in particular, captures the essence of our commitment—a park adorned with over 250 trees since November 2022. This once-overlooked park started gaining life in November 2022 when we mobilized the community to start planting trees at the park.  In the future this is going to become a symbol of community pride, attracting families to enjoy its shade, relish fresh fruits, and witness the lively dance of butterflies, bees, and birds.

November 13th marked a historic celebration in Kenya—a Green Holiday, where every citizen was expected to engage in tree planting. In Kilifi Kenya, we celebrated it at Buntwani Park, with collaborative efforts with other Community-Based Organizations, over 500 community members, spanning generations and representing various service organizations, gathered to fully green the park. Witnessing the community’s transformation—once passive, now actively involved in matters of environmental stewardship—was truly exhilarating. Mr Juma Mtana, a representative from the national youth office in Malindi, traveled to flag of the tree-planting ceremony, infusing the event with enthusiasm and purpose. Children from the community and students from Malindi Little Angels, adorned in white T-shirts, joined hands to plant a tree each. The symbolism of their act resonated—their commitment to nurturing the environment for generations to come.

Our journey was not without challenges. Initially, the call to plant trees echoed with only a handful responding. But we persisted, educating the community about the pivotal role trees play in the health of our planet. Gradually, the community embraced the vision, and on Green Holiday, everyone came together to plant a tree, naming it after themselves—a symbol of personal commitment to its care. The #Pandarafiki initiative, planting trees for friends and naming them, added a personal touch to our greening endeavor. This initiative emphasized that caring for a friend meant caring for the tree planted in their name. Over 400 trees found a home in the park, transforming its landscape and the community’s perception of their shared space.

An essential aspect of this green revolution was collaboration. “OneMillionTrees4Kilifi” joined forces with other community-based organizations, recognizing that the collective impact far exceeds individual efforts. Together, we mobilized resources, planned community projects, advocated for change, and engaged members from state corporations, local government, and community leaders. The collaborative approach has shifted the community’s mindset. No longer reliant solely on local leaders and governments, the community now embraces its responsibility to make a difference. By actively participating in greening initiatives, they’ve become stewards of their environment, taking ownership of matters that directly impact their lives.

To ensure the survival of our green legacy, “OneMillionTrees4Kilifi” didn’t stop at planting. We instituted a weekly follow-up routine—an act of love for the trees we planted. Every Sunday, community-created teams conduct “tree check-ups,” nurturing the growth of each tree through watering, weeding, and replacing any struggling saplings. This commitment guarantees a 100% survival rate, an investment in the future of Kilifi’s beautiful park.

What started as a mission to address malnutrition has blossomed into a full-fledged community movement. “OneMillionTrees4Kilifi” has not just planted trees; we’ve sowed the seeds of unity, environmental consciousness, and community pride. The story of Kilifi is an inspiring narrative of a community that dared to dream big, embraced collaboration, and is now witnessing the flourishing results—one million trees at a time. As we continue to nurture our green haven, Kilifi is not just greening its landscape; it’s shaping a sustainable, vibrant future for generations to come. I am proud to be a part of this journey, where every tree planted symbolizes a dream, a commitment, and a step toward a brighter tomorrow.

In the heart of Kilifi County, Kenya, where the impacts of climate change reverberate through the community, a transformative initiative emerged — the Kilifi Intergenerational Climate Change Dialogue (KICCD) 2023. Born out of a desire to bridge the gap between high-level climate discussions and grassroots communities, this groundbreaking event showcased the power of collaboration, community engagement, and the relentless pursuit of sustainable solutions.

The story began with a vision to localize climate action. Recognizing the urgency of the climate crisis, Onemilliontrees4kilifi conceived the idea of KICCD. Understanding the importance of collective effort, the local organization joined hands with fellow thirty community-based organizations at Maono, forging a united front against climate challenges. Gaining insights from the African Climate Summit in Nairobi, the organizers honed their strategy, drawing inspiration from global initiatives while keeping a keen eye on the unique challenges faced by Kilifi. With shared knowledge, a theme emerged: “Bridging Generations for Climate Action from Local Insights to Global Impact.”

Pooling resources, we engaged over 30 Community Organizations situated at Maono Space, a meeting space for the community where different groups meet to strategize and implement their ideas. Together, they formulated a comprehensive concept for the dialogue, covering crucial topics like carbon markets, waste management, natural resources, and energy. Committees were formed, each playing to its strengths. Advocacy groups reached out to local government officials, emphasizing the historic significance of KICCD. Those working with youth and women mobilized communities from the deep corners of Kilifi County like Garashi, Ganze, Rabai, and so on, bringing together a diverse group of over 300 participants, spanning all ages.

The lead-up to KICCD was a whirlwind of activity. Digital-savvy organizations crafted online registration links and documented environmental degradation caused by over-mining and ocean pollution. Areas like Adu where deforestation is top-notch were documented, and the pollution at the sea level was not left behind. Meanwhile, those skilled in inventions and crafting adorned the event with decorations, banners, and tents, creating an immersive atmosphere. In a remarkable show of unity, committees coordinated seamlessly, with everyone contributing their unique strengths. The event, organized in a mere two and a half weeks, became a testament to what a community can achieve when driven by a common purpose.

On the day of the dialogue, the community poured in, bringing with them a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a shared commitment to combat climate change. Elders reminisced about traditional environmental practices, emphasizing the need to learn from the past. Women from Garashi discovered the impact of carbon markets on their lives, unveiling a previously unknown connection to global initiatives.

KICCD exceeded all expectations. The community’s enthusiastic response, coupled with the insightful discussions led by local leaders and environmental experts, left an indelible mark on Kilifi. Dr. Tunje Pole addressed waste management, Md Rael Nyanchama delved into natural resources, and Julie Wahome shed light on energy. Madam Cate from Pwam emphasized the importance of waste management.

As the dialogue concluded, the resounding sentiment was clear — Kilifi is ready for more. A call for additional dialogues echoed through the community, with the collective voice demanding extended timelines and more opportunities for impactful discussions. Kilifi Intergenerational Climate Change Dialogue proved that from collaboration to execution, every step forward is a step toward a sustainable and resilient future. The first chapter has been written, but the story of Kilifi’s climate action is far from over.

In the beginning of the previous month, we introduced a challenge called “Pandarafiki.” The term “Panda Rafiki” is derived from Swahili, where “Panda” means to plant, and “Rafiki” translates to a friend in English.

 This challenge held great significance for our organization. Its primary goal was to increase the number of trees planted and nurtured to reach one million trees in Kilifi County. The initiative aimed to foster a stronger sense of love and friendship among those who planted these trees.

Given the pressing issue of climate change, we recognize the critical importance of planting trees as a means to mitigate its effects. Now, as we commemorate one month since the launch of the Pandarafiki challenge, we wish to evaluate whether it has fulfilled its intended purpose.

Progress so far,

The intended purpose of this initiative was twofold. Firstly, it sought to align with the shared goal of the “onemilliontrees4kilifi” project, which aims to make Kilifi County greener and ensure sustainable rainforest coverage by planting one million trees across 400 schools in the region.

 Secondly, the concept expanded to encompass the idea of maintaining connections and friendships with new acquaintances made during my visit to Nairobi for the African Climate Summit. These friends and partners, who returned to their respective countries, could maintain their bonds by planting a tree and naming it after themselves. 

This idea was extended to anyone who wished to plant a tree in memory of their loved ones. These trees serve a dual purpose, contributing to our environmental goals and creating enduring symbols of love and friendship.

Our Expectations 

The Pandarafiki Challenge has exceeded our initial expectations. What began as an initiative in Kilifi County, Kenya, has now resonated with people worldwide. The first country to embrace the idea was India, where Class to Class Ambassador Madam Jhansi Ravikumar and her students planted a number of trees. It was heartwarming to witness Indian students learning Kiswahili while participating in this tree-planting activity.

We were also fortunate to be joined by Madam Rahmeni Jmalia from Tunisia, who led our Muslim brothers and sisters in the Pandarafiki Challenge. Hamunant Deshmukh from Green Sunrise Hill in Wagholi, India, planted ten trees on his farm. Gise from Brazil enthusiastically engaged her family members in tree planting, including her mother and son. 

South Africa was represented by Swantini, while the United States had Nasim, Japan had Kanako Sugai, and Kenya, particularly Kilifi, had numerous participants, including Al Kags, Chris, Loise, Elphic, Vincent, Jeff, Simon, Angel, Zainab, Katana, Lincoln, Pande, Panda, Jmars, and many more.

Over the course of the past month, Pandarafiki has successfully nurtured the love for tree planting and care. The challenge has impacted an impressive 56,000 individuals through on-site visits and online engagement, resulting in the planting of 16,000 trees so far. It’s truly exciting to note that the challenge has inspired five farmers to establish tree farms, spanning from Nyahururu and Kitale to Magarini. 

Schools have also actively participated, with Kakuyuni boys’ students greening their premises and planting fruit trees in their school farm. The same level of enthusiasm was mirrored by Shomani girls, who planted passion fruits along their school fence and several trees within the school grounds.

We firmly believe that the Pandarafiki project is poised to revolutionize the way people perceive tree planting in our county. Often, we’ve witnessed individuals planting trees and then neglecting them, leaving us uncertain about their chances of survival. 

However, with the Pandarafiki challenge, the act of planting a tree takes on a moral responsibility for the person, as it symbolizes their friendship. Just as a good friend wouldn’t let their friend wither away or perish, individuals feel compelled to take care of the tree they’ve planted. As a result, we have witnessed an increase in the number of trees that thrive after being planted.

Moreover, the challenge has fostered a healthy competition among friends, as everyone strives to plant as many trees as possible. This sense of camaraderie and the desire to contribute to a greener environment has motivated individuals to plant trees with even greater enthusiasm.

Given the tremendous impact we’ve witnessed, it wouldn’t be fair to conclude the challenge without a grand finale, aptly named the “Ultimate Pandarafiki Challenge.” This culmination will take place on November 13, 2023, which coincides with an official holiday in Kenya dedicated to nationwide tree planting.

We’ve organized a special event at Buntwani Park in Malindi, designed to provide an opportunity for those who may not have had the chance to participate during the past month. This event promises to be truly unique and unforgettable. If you happen to be in Malindi or its surrounding areas, we extend a warm invitation to join us in the spirit of Pandarafiki and make a lasting contribution to this important cause.