By Ongaga Ongaga
It is not every day that a 13-year-old steps forward to champion environmental conservation through writing.
But Baraka Muiruri is doing just that—balancing school life with a growing commitment to protecting the planet.
Baraka recently launched his book, Go Green with Baraka, a publication aimed at encouraging young people to take an active role in environmental stewardship.
Written in simple, relatable language, the book urges children to plant trees—particularly fruit trees—and adopt sustainable practices early in life.
Speaking during the launch in Nairobi, the young author emphasized that meaningful change can begin at any age.
He noted that young people have a responsibility to help safeguard the future through small but impactful actions like tree planting.
So far, Baraka has coordinated the planting of more than 7,600 trees and has set an ambitious target of reaching one million.
His efforts have earned him recognition both locally and internationally, including the title “Little Mr. Environment Kenya.”
He also serves as an ambassador for the #PlantYourAge initiative by Green Africa Group, which encourages individuals to mark their birthdays by planting a number of trees equivalent to their age.
Baraka’s message is gaining traction among peers, with fellow children attending the launch echoing his call for urgent action on climate change.
The initiative comes amid growing concern among experts that the effects of climate change could become increasingly difficult to manage in the coming years if action is delayed.
Environmental expert Dr. Kalua Green, who has mentored Baraka, praised his efforts, saying young people like him are helping reshape the conversation around conservation.
He called for greater support from families and institutions to nurture such initiatives.
Baraka’s work has also attracted support from organizations including Safaricom, Equity Bank, and the Office of the First Lady, signaling growing interest in youth-led environmental action.