By KPC Students
Kereri Girls High School, in collaboration with several organizations across Kisii County, commemorated World Environment Day, whose global theme was: “Beat Plastic Pollution.”
The celebration, held within the school grounds, brought together key stakeholders including County Executive Committee Members (CECMs), the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA), the Kenya Red Cross, and other partners.
They were all united by a shared commitment to environmental conservation and climate action.
World Environment Day, marked every year on June 5th, is the United Nations’ primary platform for raising global awareness and encouraging action to protect the environment.
Since its inception in 1972, it has grown into the largest global environmental outreach event, celebrated in over 150 countries.
The 2024 theme, “Beat Plastic Pollution,” focuses on one of the world’s most urgent environmental challenges: the devastating impact of single-use plastics on ecosystems, health, and climate.
A Call to Action
The event began with a colorful opening ceremony and a warm welcome from Dr. Tabitha Mogonchi, the school principal, who thanked guests and participants for honoring the occasion. She emphasized the importance of responsible plastic use and waste management.
“You should handle plastics well since they cause soil pollution. Ending plastic pollution is not just a government duty—it’s an individual responsibility,” said Dr. Mogonchi.
Representatives from the Rainforest Alliance, led by Peter Okong’o, highlighted their work in promoting sustainability throughout the production, processing, and marketing of goods, particularly in agriculture and forestry.
NEMA officials, led by Cynthia Akoth, commended the school for organizing the event and stressed the importance of community involvement in environmental preservation.
“The preservation of the environment should start with us. Let us continue planting trees and holding awareness sessions to educate our communities,” said Akoth.
Leah Ogega, the CECM for Water, Environment, and Natural Resources, reaffirmed Kisii County Government’s commitment to environmental protection.
“We are working hard to restore and protect the environment. We’ve partnered with the private sector to establish material recovery centers that will improve waste management and reduce pollution,” she said.
The Kenya Red Cross, widely recognized for its humanitarian work, also participated in the event. Representatives emphasized the critical link between environmental health and public well-being, noting the role of clean air and safe surroundings in reducing disease and improving quality of life.
The event’s main focus was to empower young people through education, innovation, and advocacy, encouraging them to take the lead in environmental stewardship. Students participated actively in discussions, tree planting, clean-up exercises, and learning sessions aimed at promoting sustainable practices.
With the collaborative efforts of government agencies, NGOs, students, and the public, the day marked a hopeful step forward in Kisii County’s journey to eliminate plastic pollution and protect the planet for future generations.
-Reported by Chipanga Daniel, Obaigwa Alex, Mondesta Faith, Kwamboka Dories and Lanoi Rhoda