The event was vibrant and graced by notable dignitaries, including Honourable Governor Joshua Irungu and County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, Madam Leah Njeri, NEMA County Director of Environment, Madam Sarah Waruo and Chief Officer for Environment, Mr. Stephen Lapian, among others.

Madam Leah Njeri, CECM for Water, Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change, and Marima Lilau of the Kenya Defence Forces(KDF) collect waste during the World Environment Day clean-up in Nanyuki

Other Stakeholders present included representatives from the LWF, Three Rivers Academy, Equity Bank, Mazingira recyclers, KENWRUA, SIRIMA Tree Planting CBO, Laikipia Skills and Talent Institute, Pioneer Child Development Program, IMPACT Kenya, Laikipia Conservancies Association (LCA), NAWASCO, Likii Secondary School, KDF, KWS, IPSIA, Red Cross, KFS, Dedan Kimathi Foundation, among others.

Laikipia County Governor Joshua Irungu addresses participants during the World Environment Day celebrations at Likii Mixed Secondary School

Participants engaged in hands-on activities like collecting waste from the Petrol Station near the Kenya Commercial Bank (KCB), Nanyuki, to Likii Secondary School. The event featured speeches and presentations highlighting the impacts of plastic pollution and the importance of reducing our reliance on single-use plastics. Mazingira recyclers shared their local initiatives and innovations in recycling by making poles using melted plastic. Speeches from Madam Sarah and Madam Leah called on everyone to adopt sustainable practices anchored on the powerful theme “Plastic Pollution Ends with Me.”

This event aimed to raise awareness about the harmful effects of plastic waste. The governor emphasized the importance of individual and community action in tackling plastic pollution.

In a nutshell, LWF joined the community in celebrating the World Environment Day, which resonated deeply with our mission to protect Laikipia’s unique ecosystem. As we move forward, LWF remains committed to reducing plastic waste and ensuring a healthy environment for both wildlife and people in Laikipia.

In conclusion, as we reflect on World Environment Day, let’s remember that the fight against plastic pollution is an ongoing effort. Every small action counts, whether it is from reducing our plastic use to supporting initiatives like those by Mazingira Recyclers and others. Together, we can protect Laikipia’s precious Environment and ensure a cleaner, healthier future for all.

The just concluded Climate Democracy Accelerator (CDA) project, funded by People Powered, has not only equipped communities with the tools of participatory governance but has also ignited a shared vision: water security for all.

But this is not just a story about training workshops and Ward Committee meetings. It is a story of transformation from silence to voice, from exclusion to inclusion, and from passive governance to people-powered advocacy.

The Power of Process: Crafting the Rainwater Harvesting Advocacy Brief

In April 2025, we reached a significant milestone with the final validation of Laikipia’s Rainwater Harvesting Advocacy Brief. The true distinction of this brief lies not only in its technical recommendations or policy objectives, but in the inclusive and collaborative process through which it was developed.

The brief was developed with the community, by the community, through the tireless efforts of the 15 Ward Climate Change Planning Committees (WCCPCs), supported by LWF, the Laikipia Climate Change Unit, and partners such as Pathways Policy Institute, the Kenya Forest Service (KFS), and the Water Resources Authority (WRA).

From Mukogodo to Marmanet, Salama to Sosian, WCCPC members: men, women, youth, and persons with disabilities, came together to identify the pressing issue of water scarcity and propose tangible, localized solutions.

“This is the first time our voices are shaping county policy, not just receiving it,” said Madam Alice, Chair person of WCCPC  from Ngobit Ward, during the final validation session.

The process wasn’t without its challenges. At the start of CDA, most WCCPCs lacked training on climate change or their roles in the FLLoCA (Financing Locally-Led Climate Action) program. The journey ahead seemed unclear. But through intensive capacity building, participatory planning, and advocacy training, WCCPCs grew into confident leaders and advocates. They led citizen assemblies, gathered data, and co-developed action plans that would eventually feed into the advocacy brief.

From tree nurseries in Nanyuki to solarized boreholes in Githiga, and beekeeping in Mukogodo West to household water pans in Umande, every Ward told its story of innovation and resilience. These local actions formed the backbone of the policy brief, proving that community knowledge is not only valid, it is vital.

As we celebrate this milestone, LWF recognizes that building policy is only half the battle. What we need now is implementation.

We envision a second phase of this project, one that brings the advocacy brief to life through implementation of this structure and having the proper structure at the right place to be able to harvest water for the community.

With your partnership, we can turn grassroots advocacy into government-backed action. We can make rainwater harvesting not just an idea, but a way of life for Laikipia.

Rain may be seasonal, but community resilience does not have to be. Let’s build a Laikipia where every drop counts, and every voice matters.

The occasion was graced by Eng. Eric Murithi Mugaa, the Cabinet Secretary (CS) for water, sanitation, and irrigation; Joshua Irungu, Governor Laikipia county; and Mwangi Kiunjuri, Member of Parliament, Laikipia East. Partners  including the Water Resources Authority, Water Resources Users Associations (WRUAs), local leadership, and other water sector players such as pipers and distributors also participated in the event.

Stakeholders emphasized the significance of preserving glaciers, which are considered vital water towers. They store approximately 70% of the global freshwater and provide fresh water to people, animals, and plants. The rapid melting of the Mt Kenya glaciers threatens water security, river flows, and climate stability in the region, and the stakeholders were encouraged to prioritize the preservation of the resource. Urgent action is needed for conservation and sustainable water management. On the eve of the day, the water sector players and local partners undertook a rigorous tree-planting exercise involving the community and students to contribute to the National Tree Growing and Restoration Campaign and align it with the World Water Day.

To tackle these pressing pollution challenges, the LWF, with support from the WWF Russell E. Train Education for Nature (EFN) Program, is launching a project aimed at protecting the Likii River sub-catchment from improper waste disposal. The initiative will focus on improving water quality by promoting sustainable waste management practices in the Likii and Kangaita informal settlements; home to more than 10,000 residents.

The project’s success hinges on strong collaboration with key local actors in the water and waste management sectors. These include the Likii Water Resource Users Association (WRUA), Ng’arisha Mtaa Youth Group, Mazingira Recyclers, and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA). Together, these partners will drive pollution awareness campaigns and foster behavioral changes necessary to adopt sustainable waste management practices.

Youth-led organizations such as Ng’arisha Mtaa and Mazingira Recyclers will play a pivotal role in mobilizing the community, raising awareness, and actively involving local residents in maintaining a clean environment. Under the motto “Mazingira Safi, Jukumu Letu” (A Clean Environment, Our Responsibility), these groups will encourage community engagement and environmental stewardship.

A key focus will be on household-level waste management, with community members given opportunities to visit examples of waste being transformed into useful resources. One such example is the production of plastic poles from recycled waste by Mazingira Recyclers, which will serve as an educational model to inspire change of behaviour across the community.

To amplify this initiative’s impact, LWF will conduct radio talks and podcasts to reach a broader audience. The project aims to reduce pollutants originating from informal settlements, irrigation farms, and peri-urban areas, thereby safeguarding this crucial freshwater resource for both the present and future generations.

To achieve this restoration goal, LWF has partnered with different stakeholders to undertake tree-growing events aimed at creating a strong buffer strip for the riparian zones.

Two tree-growing events took place in the first half of the year. On May 17, 2024, LWF partnered with the Mt. Kenya Community Forest Association (CFA) to plant 5,000 indigenous tree species along the riparian area of the Nanyuki River at the foot of Mt. Kenya. Additionally, we supported the “Adopt a Tree” program, where 3,000 indigenous tree species were distributed to four schools.

LWF also partnered with various stakeholders, including Likii Water Resource Users Association (WRUA), who are mandated to ensure conservation along the Likii sub-catchment, to grow 5,000 indigenous tree species.

This event coincided with the World Environment Day on June 5, 2024. Some of the partners present included the Mt. Kenya Ewaso Water Partnership, NEMA-Laikipia County, the Department of Water, Environment, and Natural Resources-Laikipia County, the Water Resources Authority (WRA), Nanyuki Water and Sanitation Company (NAWASCO), Kenya Defense Forces (KDF), The Leo Project, Nanyuki Green Champions, Projects Africa, Ngusishi WRUA, Kongoni River Farm, and Kariki Farm.

LWF representatives receive certification award on the World Environment Day for Outstanding Restoration Efforts. Photo Credit: Ann Ngunjiri

The importance of this exercise was echoed by Leah Njeri, the Laikipia CECM of the Department of Water, Environment, and Natural Resources. She explained that the exercise aligns with the Presidential directive of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 and contributes to Laikipia County’s target of 372 million trees.

These tree-growing efforts are also crucial in accelerating the implementation of the WRUA’s sub-catchment management plan (SCMP), which includes a whole chapter on resource-protection. The selected sites were informed by previous mapping, identifying the degraded areas along the two river catchments.

With the Mount Kenya Ewaso Water Partnership’s (MKEWP’s) commitment to engaging river scouts to support this exercise, we are confident of achieving a survival rate of at least 70% within the two sites.

Held on the 12^th and 13^th  of March 2024 at the Constituency Development Funds (CDF) offices in Kiwanja Ndege, our training drew enthusiastic participation from members of various CWPs, including Kiwanja Ndege borehole, Ol-kinyei borehole, Arijiju borehole, and Bokish borehole.

Our training sessions kicked off with insightful discussions on governance and leadership within CWPs. Participants actively engaged in identifying governance and leadership gaps specific to their projects, setting the stage for targeted interventions. Additionally, representatives from the WRA provided invaluable insights into policies on groundwater management, enriching participants’ understanding of regulatory frameworks.

Naseria, shares her experience on governance structure of their community water project

Recognizing the critical role of resource mobilization and financial management in project success, we delved into these aspects comprehensively. Led by our team member, Peter Mathenge, discussions focused on effective strategies for mobilizing resources and garnering community support for water projects. Furthermore, Solomon, alongside WRA representatives, guided participants through the development and review of operating budgets.

As the training drew to a close, participants collaborated to develop action plans that will guide their future endeavours. A key focus of these plans was the legalization of boreholes, ensuring the acquisition of necessary permits and certificates for compliance. Additionally, participants committed to developing operating budgets for each project and exploring joint resource mobilization efforts to ensure the continued success and sustainability of CWPs in the region.

Beyond equipping participants with essential skills and knowledge, our training fostered a sense of collaboration and shared responsibility among community members. With actionable plans in place, we are confident that the impact of this training will enhance water resource management and contribute to the sustainable development of our region.

In the serene setting of Manguo Wetland in Nyahururu, we proudly united with the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Laikipia County Government, and esteemed stakeholders to commemorate this year’s World Wetlands Day, with the theme  ‘Wetlands and Human Wellbeing.’

From town clean-ups in the Manguo area to engaging tree-planting initiatives and enlightening community sensitization campaigns, the day brimmed with activities designed to elevate awareness and deepen appreciation for the critical role wetlands play in our collective existence.

In a world where nearly 90% of wetlands have succumbed to degradation since the 1700s, the urgency to protect and restore these vital ecosystems cannot be overstated. This year’s theme strikes a chord as we navigate the intricate interplay between wetlands and human wellbeing. From providing essential habitats for diverse biodiversity to serving as critical carbon sinks, wetlands serve as indispensable pillars for sustaining life and fortifying resilience against the ravages of climate change.

The event witnessed a distinguished gathering of stakeholders, including representatives from government agencies, conservation organizations, and local communities. Their collective presence underscored a shared commitment to amplifying awareness about the critical importance of conserving wetlands, encompassing swamps, marshes, and riparian lands, which are not only pivotal for human wellbeing but also indispensable for the thriving of wildlife and aquatic species.

The local community and stakeholders actively engage in a clean-up initiative during the World Wetlands Day Celebration in Nyahururu

Addressing the assembled audience, Mr. Samuel Abraham Lemanyishoe, Chief Officer of Water, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change for Laikipia County, reaffirmed the unwavering dedication of the County Government to conserving and restoring Manguo Wetland and other wetlands across the County.

Emphasizing strategic measures such as the meticulous planting and nurturing of bamboo trees, he called for a collective responsibility in conservation efforts.

As the Assistant County Commissioner and esteemed Chief guest for the occasion, Mr. Joseph Wanyonyi underscored the importance of adopting a comprehensive approach to safeguarding wetlands, addressing pressing issues such as pollution and encroachment, which pose formidable threats to effective conservation endeavours.

Let us wholeheartedly acknowledge that the health and vitality of our wetlands directly influence the quality of life for communities.

By synergizing our efforts and embarking upon decisive action, we can ensure the enduring preservation of these invaluable ecosystems for the benefit of present and future generations.

For those unfamiliar, MpalaLive is a groundbreaking online platform that offers live streams of wildlife from the renowned Mpala Research Centre. This initiative provides an immersive experience, allowing viewers to witness the daily activities of African wildlife in real-time, from majestic elephants to graceful giraffes and powerful lions. Beyond entertainment, MpalaLive serves as an educational resource, offering curated video stories, teacher guides, and lesson plans to foster a deeper understanding of conservation and ecosystem dynamics.

During the meeting, MpalaLive representatives shared insights into their project’s goals and capabilities, while we had the opportunity to showcase our ongoing and prospective conservation initiatives. It quickly became evident that there was significant potential for synergy between our organizations.

As a result, an action plan was developed to leverage MpalaLive’s expertise in documenting conservation efforts. One exciting outcome is the collaboration on developing short documentaries highlighting our work in the field. Additionally, MpalaLive will assist in sharing our activities through collaborative posting, further enhancing our visibility and reach.

Victor Kasii, who joined our team during the Invasive Species school debates programs supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), will play a pivotal role in this collaboration. By documenting these debates and crafting a documentary, we will be able to showcase our work to members, donors, and supporters, thereby strengthening our relationships and impact.

Victor Kasii from MpalaLive capturing moments during the second phase of the Invasive Species Debates.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to MpalaLive for their support and look forward to exploring further opportunities for collaboration. Together, we are committed to advancing conservation efforts and inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.

Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting partnership!

LWF made a significant impact during this year’s World Water Day celebrations held at Naibor, Segera Ward.

The event, graced by H.E. Governor Joshua Irungu, EGH, focused on the theme ‘leveraging water for peace,’ emphasizing the crucial link between water, peace, and security, particularly in Laikipia County.

Governor Irungu highlighted the County Government’s efforts in expanding access to water and enhancing water security. He emphasized the importance of sustainable water management for peace and stability, citing County initiatives such as drilling boreholes to improve access to clean and safe water for both domestic and livestock use.

Ms. Leah Njeri, the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Water, Environment, Natural Resources, and Climate Change, outlined the department’s endeavors in water management, including the establishment of Laikipia Rural Water and Sanitation Company (LURWASCO) to ensure efficient water governance in rural areas.

The CEO of the Central Rift Valley Water Works Development Agency, the guest of honor of the day, Mr. Ndiritu Mathenge, underscored the significance of leveraging water for economic development, aligning with the bottom-up agenda for sustainable and harmonious development.

One of the highlights of the day was the launch of a report on citizens’ access to water, sanitation, and hygiene services across Laikipia, presented by Dr. James Ciera, the Kenya Country lead for Twaweza East Africa. This report, facilitated by Twaweza East Africa, provides valuable insights for ongoing efforts to improve water and sanitation services in Laikipia.

LWF’s participation in the event signifies its commitment to water conservation and sustainable management practices in the region. As a key stakeholder, LWF collaborates with government agencies, NGOs, and community members (mostly through Water Resource Users Associations (WRUAs) and Community Forest Associations (CFAs)) to address water challenges and promote peace and development in Laikipia.

Through collaborative efforts and initiatives like those showcased at the World Water Day celebrations, LWF continues to play a vital role in safeguarding water resources and fostering sustainable development in the landscape.

Photo Credits:- Ann Ngunjiri

Laikipia Wildlife Forum staff take a pose during the Journey of Water campaign

World Wide Fund for Nature, Kenya Office (WWF-Kenya), in partnership with  Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF), Water Resources Authority (WRA) , and other  local partners, took the lead in a national water campaign known as the “Journey of Water Campaign: Ewaso Ng’iro North Edition.” The primary objective of this initiative was to raise public awareness about the profound significance of water as a valuable natural resource that is currently facing severe constraints. With a specific focus on the conservation of rivers from their source to our taps, the campaign emphasized the urgent need for collective action from communities, government agencies, and non-state actors to safeguard water sources and ensure improved access, quality, and quantity.

This notable event brought together over five hundred participants, predominantly community members from the area, who actively engaged in a three-day walk from June 6th to June 8th, 2023, along the River Ewaso Nyiro. The timing of this campaign was very significant as Kenya recently endured its most severe drought crisis in forty years, resulting in the depletion of major water sources. Over several months, hundreds of rivers, dried up, causing immense suffering and tension among millions of Kenyans who endured prolonged periods without food and water. Lake Olbolosat which is the only lake in the Ewaso Ng’iro Basin, also dried up. The devastating impact of this crisis underscored the interconnectedness of the water crisis and the climate crisis, with women being disproportionately affected.

The participants embarked on a journey through various routes, each revealing different challenges and issues related to water conservation. On the first day, the campaign was flagged off in the upper catchment in Timau River, Rugirando intake, where key issues such as the high number of intakes in the upper stream, encroachment on the catchment area by livestock, and soil erosion were witnessed.

On the same day, participants also had the opportunity to visit Ngusishi common intake, which served as an exemplary case of water resource management best practices.

The second day encompassed the Middle Catchment, which covered the Oljogi Conservancy Area, Naibor, and the confluence of Timau and Nanyuki River. This section raised concerns about high levels of land degradation leading to soil erosion, the proliferation of invasive species, and an increase in human-wildlife conflict, all exacerbated by the water crisis.

The third day entailed a procession in Isiolo town and later to Archers Post, with the primary focus being the issue of sand harvesting. This practice poses a significant challenge to the preservation of water resources in the area.

The three-day walk culminated in a town hall conference, bringing together stakeholders along the Timau, Nanyuki, and Isiolo rivers. These rivers serve as major tributaries to the 700km Ewaso Nyiro River, which eventually drains into the Lorian Swamp. During the conference, participants highlighted widespread issues such as over abstraction, illegal water connections for agricultural purposes, poor irrigation methods resulting in water wastage, and increased reliance on agrochemicals.

The conference yielded significant outcomes, with Laikipia, Isiolo and Nyeri counties making commitments to preserve the drying tributaries of the Ewaso Nyiro River. Following a compelling call to action, these counties recognized the extent of the threats facing water sources in the region. The Laikipia County government, represented by Leah Njeri,County  Executive Committee Member for Water, Environment, and Natural Resources, expressed dedication to preserving the Nanyuki River over the next year. Isiolo County announced plans to sink ten boreholes annually, starting in the fiscal year 2024, to tap into groundwater and address the increasing demand for water. Nyeri County pledged to undertake riparian conservation and catchment rehabilitation for three rivers. Additionally, the county expressed plans to incorporate the Water Resource User Associations (WRUAs) into their budget, following a review of the Laikipia County Water Services Act, 2018.

The success of the campaign and the subsequent commitments from multiple counties underpinned the critical importance of joint water conservation. The efforts of the campaign instilled a sense of urgency and collective responsibility in preserving and protecting water sources, ultimately paving the way for a sustainable water future.