In a landmark move that signals growing youth leadership in environmental stewardship, young Kenyan environmentalists have declared a strong commitment to forest conservation and the green economy in the lead-up to COP 30, scheduled for November 2025 in Brazil.
The declaration was made at the conclusion of a three-day AfricanYouth4Forests (AY4F) National Youth Workshop held in Kitui County under the theme “From Science to Youth Action for Sustainable Forestry.” The workshop brought together youth from across the country to co-create solutions for forest conservation, climate resilience, and sustainable livelihoods.
Organized by the African Forest Forum (AFF) in partnership with the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) and the Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences (SLU), the event is part of a continental build-up towards COP 30. The initiative aims to amplify African youth voices in shaping forest policy, conservation, and climate action at both national and global levels.
The youth declaration outlined urgent challenges threatening Kenya’s forest ecosystems, including climate change, deforestation, and the exclusion of young people from policy-making.
Despite these obstacles, the youth reaffirmed their resolve to drive sustainable change through innovative solutions such as climate-smart agroforestry, carbon credit initiatives, forest-based enterprises, digital storytelling, and ecotourism.“Young people are not just future leaders — they are today’s drivers of sustainability and innovation. We are ready to take charge in ensuring that our forests thrive while creating inclusive economic opportunities,” read part of the declaration.
Esther Maina, National Coordinator of the Kenyan Youth Biodiversity Network, emphasized the role of youth in safeguarding natural heritage. “Our forests are not just natural resources; they’re our inheritance. And it’s our duty as youth to protect and restore them with both urgency and creativity,” she said.
The workshop focused on equipping participants with scientific knowledge, entrepreneurial tools, and indigenous insights to enhance youth participation in sustainable forest governance. Dr. Mutta, speaking on behalf of AFF Executive Secretary Prof. Labode Popoola, noted the importance of bridging science and tradition in empowering youth to become effective forest stewards.“This fusion empowers the youth to take informed action, preserve ecosystems, and design adaptive solutions that are both contextually relevant and scientifically sound,” said Dr. Mutta.
Prof. Anders Roos of SLU lauded the initiative as a launchpad for youth-led transformation. “Through scientific understanding and creative problem-solving, African youth are being equipped to design forest solutions rooted in both innovation and local realities,” he said.
In a powerful call to action, the youth urged the Kenyan government to integrate young people into forestry decision-making, expand green financing and training programs, and include sustainable forestry education in higher learning curricula.
The declaration also called on the private sector, NGOs, and development partners to provide mentorship, technical support, and enterprise incubation platforms for youth-led forest initiatives.
Dr. Jane Njuguna, CEO of KEFRI, emphasized the urgency of empowering the next generation. “Forests are at the heart of Kenya’s environmental resilience and socio-economic future. Empowering young people to become stewards of our forests is no longer optional but an urgent necessity,” she said.
AFF consultant Dr. Joshua Cheboiwo added that forests present a wealth of opportunities for youth. “With creativity and commitment, young people can turn forest resources into thriving enterprises that support livelihoods while protecting the environment,” he said.
As African youth prepare to present a unified voice at COP 30, the Kitui declaration marks a significant step in elevating youth leadership in the continent’s green transition and forest conservation agenda.
