The Global Peace Foundation (GPF) Kenya, led by its Environment Manager, Mr. Japheth Ouda, together with Mr. Vincent Rapando from the Chandaria Foundation, joined Ms. Charlene Ruto in a dynamic student environmental stewardship awareness campaign hosted by the KIPEPEO Group at the United States International University–Africa (USIU-Africa).
The forum brought together young leaders, university students, and environmental champions to share best practices, explore challenges, and identify opportunities to enhance youth participation in environmental stewardship and sustainability. Discussions centered on aligning campus-led initiatives with Kenya’s national environmental goals, particularly the Presidential clarion call to grow 15 billion trees by 2032.
In his remarks, Mr. Ouda emphasized the importance of collective action and innovation in tackling the climate crisis:
“When young people take the lead in environmental stewardship, they not only restore ecosystems but also inspire a generation to take responsibility for the planet’s future.”
The engagement also outlined plans to establish Chandaria Orchards and Tree Nurseries at the university. These will serve as living laboratories for students—enhancing volunteerism, nurturing a culture of service, and fostering environmental social entrepreneurship as a viable livelihood opportunity for youth and surrounding communities.
Furthermore, USIU-Africa is set to act as a training hub for tree-growing value chains, supporting Kenya’s mission to achieve 30% forest cover by 2032. Through such partnerships, GPF Kenya continues to advance its mission of promoting peace and sustainability under its guiding philosophy of “One Family under God.”
