Aasai

Climate WorX Mtaani primarily targets youth and women, engaging them in environmental conservation efforts. The initiative was launched with the participation of National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs), local leaders, youth groups, and Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) to ensure widespread community involvement.

According to the Ministry of Environment, the program will be scaled up to accommodate more youth, address emerging environmental challenges, and provide much-needed job opportunities.

Government’s Commitment to Environmental Conservation

Environment Cabinet Secretary Aden Duale confirmed that the government will allocate additional resources to improve environmental management efforts. This includes:

• Expanding workforce capacity for sewer system maintenance and cleaning
• Enhancing waste collection and introducing community-driven recycling initiatives
• Increasing participation in tree-planting programs
• Strengthening efforts to restore riparian zones

Payment Structure for Youth Workers

The employment model operates on a rotational basis, where selected youth work two weeks on, and two weeks off. Participants will be compensated as follows:

• Ksh500 per day for general workers
• Ksh550 per day for supervisors
• Payments are processed via mobile money transfer at the end of each two-week shift

Challenges Facing the Initiative

Despite its success, the program faces several obstacles, including:

• Uncontrolled sewage discharge, leading to environmental pollution
• Illegal structures near water bodies and industrial zones, exacerbate environmental strain
• Heavy rains cause soil erosion, carrying pollutants into water sources
• A rise in illegal waste dumping, particularly during the festive seasons
• Limited access to affordable renewable energy, increasing reliance on fossil fuels, and contributing to climate change
• Vulnerability of informal settlements to climate-related disasters, with minimal preparedness measures in place

Impact on Youth and the Community

The initiative has significantly benefited youth, particularly in informal settlements where job opportunities are scarce. CS Duale highlighted the program’s impact, stating that it has:

• Provided direct employment to thousands of young people

• Created leadership opportunities by engaging youth in local environmental projects

• Encouraged entrepreneurial ventures in green businesses, particularly in waste management and tree planting

• Fostered a sense of responsibility among participants toward environmental conservation and community welfare

A statement from the Ministry of Environment reiterated that Climate WorX Mtaani is not only a source of income but also a platform for youth empowerment and environmental stewardship.