JUNE 6 – Dr. Joyce Kithure, the Second Lady of the Republic of Kenya, has called on Kenyans to embrace community-driven environmental action, saying meaningful climate solutions begin with simple but deliberate actions at the grassroots level.
Speaking during a World Environment Day clean-up exercise in Kibra, Nairobi, Dr. Kithure said environmental conservation should not be viewed as the responsibility of governments and institutions alone, but as a shared duty that requires active participation from citizens and communities.
The event, held under the global theme of Climate Action, brought together community leaders, students, volunteers, development partners and residents for a large-scale clean-up aimed at promoting environmental responsibility and sustainable living.
Dr. Kithure noted that climate change is no longer a distant threat but a present reality affecting weather patterns, public health, food systems and livelihoods.
“This day reminds us that the climate crisis is not a distant challenge. It is here with us, shaping our weather patterns, our health, our food systems and our livelihoods,” she said.
She emphasised that maintaining a clean environment contributes directly to climate action by reducing pollution, improving public health and creating safer, more sustainable communities.
According to the Second Lady, responsible waste management remains one of the most practical ways communities can contribute to environmental protection while improving their quality of life.
Through her initiative, Science Adding Value to the Environment and the Communities (SaVE Communities), Dr. Kithure said efforts have focused on translating environmental awareness into practical action.
Over the past year, the organisation has conducted clean-up activities in various informal settlements, including Dandora and Kawangware, working alongside local residents, youth groups and community stakeholders.
The engagements, she noted, have demonstrated the power of community ownership in driving environmental change.
“When communities are empowered, they do not wait for change, they create it,” she said.
Dr. Kithure also praised the participation of young people in environmental activities, describing them as leaders and innovators whose energy and creativity are critical to building a sustainable future.
She urged Kenyans to adopt environmentally responsible habits in their homes, schools and workplaces, including reducing waste, recycling and protecting natural resources.
The Second Lady further called for stronger partnerships between government institutions, academia, community organisations, and citizens to address challenges such as pollution, waste management, deforestation and climate change.
She thanked Kibra residents, volunteers and partners for supporting the initiative and urged communities to ensure that environmental action continues beyond commemorative events.
“Let this World Environment Day not be an isolated event, but a renewed commitment to continuous action,” she said.
