The Mt. Kenya Network Forum (MKNF) hosted Amit Banka, CEO of WeNaturalists, at its community fruit tree nursery and renewable energy demo farm in Nanyuki. This high-profile visit, facilitated by Kaluki Paul Mutuku (Afrika Director, Youth4Nature), marked a pivotal step toward bridging grassroots conservation efforts with global platforms for nature-based solutions.
WHY THIS MEETING MATTERED
WeNaturalists—a global network connecting environmental organizations—sought to amplify MKNF’s work in:
- Community-Led Reforestation: 20,000+ fruit trees planted across Mt. Kenya’s slopes.
- Renewable Energy Advocacy: Solar-powered solutions for off-grid farming communities.
- Youth Mobilization: Training programs for climate resilience.
“Your model proves that local action drives global impact,” remarked Amit Banka during the tour.
KEY OUTCOMES: FROM DIALOGUE TO ACTION
- Knowledge Exchange Platform:
- WeNaturalists will feature MKNF’s projects on its global hub, connecting the team to funders and technical partners.
- Upcoming Zoom meeting to draft a joint “Digital Conservation Toolkit” for grassroots groups.
- Solidarity with Global Movements:
- MKNF endorsed WeNaturalists’ #NatureWithoutBorders campaign, linking Mt. Kenya’s biodiversity to the Congo Basin and Amazon.
- Commitment to Scale:
- Pilot partnership to map MKNF’s tree nurseries using WeNaturalists’ geo-tagging tools, enhancing transparency for donors.
VOICES FROM THE GROUND
Stephen Kariuki, MKNF Founder:
“Amit’s visit validated our work. We’re no longer just a local initiative—we’re part of a planetary movement. Next stop: COP27!”
Catherine Nchimbi, WeNaturalists:
“MKNF’s fusion of agroecology and youth leadership is replicable across Africa. We’re excited to co-design solutions.”
WHAT’S NEXT?
- April 2022: Virtual workshop on “Digital Tools for Community Conservation.”
- COP27: Joint advocacy for Indigenous-led climate finance.
- Call to Action: Support MKNF’s nursery expansion.
Press Contact:
AdminMKNF | mtkenyanetworkforum@gmail.com | +254 746839907
Follow the Journey:
#WeNaturalistsInKenya | #MtKenyaRises | @Youth4Nature
