Photo of Executive Director Elphic Tossi tending to a tree nursery. Photo/Courtesy
By Daisy Okiring
Kilifi, Kenya, is a land of striking contrasts. It boosts a stunning coastal paradise, with bright blue waters and sandy beaches, but it also struggles with dry land and disappearing forests.
While the vibrant marine life thrives, Kilifi is struggling with climate change, leaving many communities grappling with food insecurity and water scarcity. More than 40% of children in this region suffer from malnutrition, a stark reminder of the ongoing environmental crisis.
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Yet amidst these challenges, hope is blooming through a youth-led initiative called OneMillionTrees4Kilifi. OneMillionTrees4Kilifi is on a mission to restore the delicate balance of nature by planting one million trees, transforming the lives of the community, and nurturing a generation of environmental stewards. Under the dynamic leadership of Executive Director Elphic Tossi, this initiative is paving the way toward a greener, more sustainable future for Kilifi. With education and community involvement, they are fighting climate change one tree at a time, helping to heal both the land and its people.
The harsh reality of climate change in Kilifi
Kilifi County is on the frontline of climate change, facing prolonged droughts and declining agricultural productivity. According to the Kenya Meteorological Department, the region has experienced a 20% reduction in rainfall over the last decade, leading to severe water shortages and food insecurity.
Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics reveals that nearly 40% of children in Kilifi suffer from malnutrition, a figure that highlights the urgent need for action.
“Water is the real commodity here,” says Tossi. “The changing climate is not just an environmental issue; it’s a humanitarian crisis.” The struggles faced by communities in Kilifi are echoed by many across the globe, where climate change exacerbates poverty and displaces populations.
OneMillionTrees4Kilifi: A beacon of hope
Founded out of a deep concern for Kilifi’s changing climate, OneMillionTrees4Kilifi focuses on four key initiatives: The Green City Initiative, fruit orchards in schools, Greenversation, and the Kids Environmental Program. These programs aim to create urban forests, combat malnutrition, facilitate environmental dialogue, and engage youth in conservation efforts.
“By planting trees, we’re not just restoring the environment; we’re also providing shade and food for our children,” Tossi explains. The organization has already established fruit orchards in over 30 schools, providing fresh produce and serving as educational spaces for climate awareness.
Engaging communities for lasting change
The success of OneMillionTrees4Kilifi lies in its community-driven approach. The organization collaborates with local schools and community groups, fostering a sense of ownership over environmental initiatives. “We build a relationship between people and nature,” Tossi emphasizes. “When communities feel connected to the trees they plant, they are more likely to protect them.”
In a recent initiative, students at Kakuyuni Boys High School took it upon themselves to care for the trees planted on their campus. “We wanted to make our school greener,” one student shared. “Every day, we water the trees and watch them grow.” This grassroots engagement not only enhances environmental awareness but also empowers young people to become advocates for change.
The power of partnerships
OneMillionTrees4Kilifi recognizes that collaboration is essential for scaling up their efforts. The organization partners with various stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, and local businesses. “No one plants a forest alone,” Tossi states. Collaborations with organizations like Maono Space and Quest Africa have been instrumental in supplying seedlings and resources for tree care.
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The impact of these partnerships is evident. In 2023 alone, OneMillionTrees4Kilifi successfully planted over 10,000 trees, with plans to expand their reach to 400 schools in the coming years. “Our goal is to ensure that every child in Kilifi has access to fresh fruits and learns about the importance of environmental conservation,” Tossi explains.
Success stories and measurable impact
The organization’s efforts are already yielding tangible results. At Buntwani Park, trees planted just months ago are thriving, thanks to community involvement and regular maintenance. Success stories like that of Charo, a young boy who dedicated himself to caring for the trees at his school, demonstrate the power of individual commitment in driving collective change.
“Charo’s story is a testament to what can happen when we empower our youth,” Tossi reflects. “His dedication has inspired others in his community to take action.” The visibility of OneMillionTrees4Kilifi’s work has also attracted national attention, with influential figures, including the First Lady of Kenya, advocating for similar initiatives.
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The challenges ahead
Despite their successes, OneMillionTrees4Kilifi faces significant challenges. Water scarcity remains a critical issue, particularly during dry seasons, making it difficult to sustain newly planted trees. Additionally, limited funding for ongoing care and community training hampers their expansion efforts. “We need to change the perception of trees from obstacles to assets,” Tossi argues, underscoring the importance of behavioral change in achieving long-term sustainability.
A call to action
OneMillionTrees4Kilifi’s vision extends beyond tree planting; it aims to foster a culture of environmental stewardship that empowers communities to take action against climate change. “We are encouraging individuals, businesses, and policymakers to join us in this fight,” Tossi calls out. “Everyone has a role to play in building a greener Kilifi.”
Individuals can participate in community tree-planting events, adopt trees, or educate others about conservation. Businesses are encouraged to sponsor school orchards or support urban greening initiatives. Policymakers can advocate for stronger environmental protection policies and invest in sustainable land use planning.
Outlook
As Kilifi grapples with the harsh realities of climate change, OneMillionTrees4Kilifi stands as a beacon of hope. Through tree planting and community engagement, this youth-led initiative is not only restoring the environment but also empowering the next generation to fight for a sustainable future.
Under the leadership of Elphic Tossi, OneMillionTrees4Kilifi is proving that local actions can lead to global change, one tree at a time. In the face of adversity, they are cultivating resilience and inspiring a movement that transcends borders—a movement that calls for collective action against climate change.
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