NEWS EDITION
Speak-Up to Environmental Action
By Ms. Teresia Muia
Susan Nzomo (LCMC social justice project’s officer) doing an introduction of the environmental rights project to a group of young people in Kibera.

In response to the global call for environmental protection, Loyola Centre for Media and Communications is empowering young people from Wanawake kwa Wanawake, a local Kenyan registered charity organization in Kibera, to become environmental ambassadors. The center, inspired by the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Holy See’s “Laudato si” call for collective action, conducted two training sessions this week focusing on individual responsibility towards the environment and media involvement in environmental conservation.

The first session, held on Tuesday, focused on understanding individual responsibility towards the environment, guided by the principles of the UN SDGs. Participants learned about the importance of their daily choices and behaviors in contributing to environmental conservation.

The second session, conducted on Thursday, centered on media involvement in environmental conservation. Participants were equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to use media platforms effectively in raising awareness about environmental issues, mobilizing communities, and advocating for sustainable practices. By empowering young people with media skills, the center aims to amplify their voices and turn them into effective advocates for environmental conservation.

“Everyone has a role to play in achieving the goals of environmental protection by living sustainably in schools, work and at home too,’’ says Miss Teresia from Loyola Centre for Media and Communications, “It is shocking that some often overlooked practices like keeping our lights on when not in use and using disposable water bottles adds to environmental pollution,” she added while urging the participants to develop the art of responsible consumption.

Teresia Muia (from LCMC) explaining the UN Sustainable development goals to the young people in Kibera.

The training sessions received positive feedback from participants, and seemed to awaken a new zeal for environmental protection among the participants.

As the world continues to battle with environmental challenges, initiatives like these play a crucial role in empowering communities to take action and contribute to a more sustainable future.