KISUMU, May 2025 -Young people across Kenya are being called to take centre stage in environmental protection and climate resilience efforts following the formation of the Kenya National Youth Network under the Nile Basin Discourse Forum.
The newly launched network targets youth aged 35 and below, aiming to actively involve them in water resource management, climate action, and regional environmental initiatives.
The network will represent Kenya at both national and regional levels within the Nile Basin Discourse, a platform comprising ten countries that share the Nile Basin’s resources.
Speaking during the establishment and elections of the youth wing, Joseph Ngome, Chairperson of the Kenya Nile Discourse Forum, emphasised that meaningful development cannot exclude the energy and ideas of the younger generation.
“We believe development cannot succeed if only adults are involved without the contribution of young people. Youths are future leaders and must be allowed to contribute ideas and take responsibility,” he said.
The meeting saw the election of key officials to steer the youth agenda. Gabriel Okola was elected Organising Secretary of the Kenya Nile Basin Discourse Youth Forum. He pledged to work closely with the forum’s leadership to ensure young voices shape water governance.
“Water is life, and as young people, we interact with it in many ways through projects and economic activities. There is a need for us to preserve, conserve and sustainably manage our water resources,” Okola noted.
Nabongo Sharon, from Busia County, who was elected Vice Chairperson of the youth forum, called on youth groups and individuals to join the initiative.
She highlighted that the programme is supported by the World Bank and involves ten Nile Basin countries, strengthening efforts to safeguard water bodies, wetlands, and Lake Victoria.
“Let us come up with policies that will help safeguard our future and protect one of the largest rivers in the world,” Sharon urged.
Ngome further explained that the newly elected leaders will first operate locally before joining regional meetings, where representatives from member states will elect officials to the wider regional structure.
The youth network is expected to complement existing programmes on climate change and environmental conservation.
The formation of the network marks a major milestone in ensuring that young people are not just bystanders but active participants in environmental governance and the sustainable management of water resources across the Nile Basin region.
