Northern Kenya Conservation Clubs (NKCC) hosted the 17th Community Conservation Day in Partnership with Laikipia Wildlife Forum (LWF) at Ewaso Comprehensive School under the theme “Conservation is Key to Survival.” The day brought together learners, teachers, conservation partners, and local community members in a vibrant celebration of environmental stewardship and youth engagement.
The event opened with a colorful and reflective Art Walk, where attendees explored classrooms transformed into galleries of student artwork. Each piece vividly portrayed the learners’ understanding of conservation, biodiversity, and sustainability, thereby proving that the voice of the youth is both creative and powerful in advocating for nature.
Following this, the program came alive with performances from various schools. Among the most memorable was a skit on waste management presented by Dol Dol Boys High School, showcasing practical conservation solutions through storytelling and humor. Other presentations included traditional songs, poems, and oral stories, all creatively woven with environmental themes and cultural pride.
A thrilling jeopardy competition between Ewaso Secondary School and Kimanjo Secondary School kept the crowd engaged, as students tackled complex questions across four categories: Habitat, Wildlife, Conservation, and other World Environmental Issues. Their thoughtful answers and clear preparation reflected the growing impact of conservation education across Laikipia schools.
Students huddle during the exciting conservation-themed Jeopardy competition
The highlight of the day was the awarding of educators, with special recognition going to Madam Agnes Santa, a dedicated teacher from Reteti Primary School. Her tireless efforts in weaving conservation into classroom learning have inspired both her students and fellow educators. Madam Santa’s award was presented by Dr. Nina Wambiji of the Mpala Research Centre, accompanied by a heartfelt message from Prof. Daniel and Nancy Rubenstein, who commended her as “a beacon of environmental inspiration in rural education.”
Madam Agnes Santa of Reteti Primary School receives a special award for her outstanding dedication to integrating conservation into classroom learning during the 17th Community Conservation Day
The program also featured remarks from the Northern Kenya Conservation Clubs (NKCC), reinforcing the importance of grassroots involvement in fostering a conservation ethic. Key partners, including Zeitz Foundation, Mpala Research Centre, Lion Landscapes, Ol Lentille, Loisaba Conservancy and other neighbouring conservancies, were acknowledged for their continued collaboration and support in safeguarding Laikipia’s unique biodiversity.
A total of 21 schools and clubs took part in this year’s Community Conservation Day, making it one of the most inclusive and vibrant to date. These included: – Ewaso Secondary, Kimanjo Secondary, Dol Dol Boys High, Daraja Girls, Ewaso Primary, Naiperere Comprehensive, Ilmojok Secondary, Nkirorit Conservation Club, Lekiji Junior Secondary, Kutuma Mixed Secondary, Nabolo Primary, Kurum Secondary, Ilmotiok Primary, Shilor Naibor Primary School, Ol-Jogi Comprehensive, Ol-Girgir Comprehensive, Reteti Primary, Ilpolei Primary, Sherton Musul Primary, Kimanjo Comprehensive, Nkiloriti Primary.
The event concluded with closing remarks from the chief guest, who extended gratitude to all contributors, partners, and participants for their support and involvement in making the day a success.
The 17th Community Conservation Day at Ewaso Primary was not just a celebration; it was a milestone moment. Through youth-led creativity, institutional recognition, and community partnership, the event reaffirmed Laikipia’s bold commitment to conservation. It proved that by equipping the next generation with knowledge, voice, and vision, we are shaping a future where both people and nature thrive. Indeed, Laikipia is raising “Guardians of Tomorrow.”
