Our History

The Mpenda Mazingira Youth Initiative was born in June 2021 within the humble yet inspiring corridors of St Joseph's Primary School (formerly Ngong Township Primary School). It was here that a simple yet powerful vision for environmental stewardship first took root. What began as an idea quickly transformed into a shared aspiration, one that ignited passion, purpose, and a sense of responsibility among its founders. Starting with just eleven students, seven boys and four girls, the initiative emerged as a small but determined movement grounded in youthful energy, compassion, and a deep commitment to protecting and preserving the environment for future generations. From the very beginning, the goal was not only to learn about environmental conservation but also to inspire others within the community to take part in safeguarding the planet. At the heart of this journey was the founder, Abel Ondigi, who at the time served as the Deputy Headboy and Scout Patrol Leader. Guided by the strong values of leadership, discipline, and service instilled through scouting, he brought together like-minded students who shared a genuine love for nature and a desire to make a difference. What followed were hands-on, grassroots efforts, walking across the hills and open landscapes of Kajiado County, planting indigenous trees, restoring degraded environments, and organizing community clean-up activities along the busy streets of Ngong and the quiet neighborhoods of Rongai. Each step taken and each tree planted symbolized a deeper commitment, not just to the environment, but to responsibility, teamwork, and community transformation.

These early efforts were more than just school activities; they marked the beginning of a movement. As young advocates, the group began to see themselves as custodians of the environment, driven by a shared mission to create cleaner neighborhoods, greener schools, and a more sustainable future. Every seedling planted carried meaning, it represented hope, resilience, and the belief that even small actions can lead to lasting change. This awareness nurtured a new generation of young leaders, committed to promoting sustainability and inspiring their peers to take action.

However, the strength of this mission was truly tested during the global crisis brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic in March 2020. Schools closed, movement was restricted, and the vibrant sense of connection that had united the group was suddenly disrupted. Like many young people, members found themselves isolated, facing uncertainty, fear, and the harsh social realities within their communities. Yet, within that silence and separation, a deeper reflection began. The group held onto their shared purpose, longing for the day they could reunite and continue their work.

During this difficult time, the initiative faced one of its most defining and emotional moments when one of its members became pregnant during the lockdown. This experience revealed the vulnerabilities that many young people, especially girls, faced during crises. While such a challenge could have easily broken the group, it instead became a turning point. It strengthened their unity, compassion, and sense of responsibility toward one another. Rather than stepping back, they chose to stand together, offering support, understanding, and solidarity.

In that period of uncertainty, the group once again turned to Abel for guidance. Despite the physical distance and restrictions, his consistent encouragement and belief in the group’s purpose kept everyone connected and hopeful. Through mentorship and emotional support, he helped the team understand that their mission extended beyond environmental conservation. It was about building resilience, fostering unity, and supporting the emotional and mental well-being of young people. This realization reshaped the identity of the initiative.

It became clear that caring for the environment could not be separated from caring for people. The health of communities and the health of the planet are deeply interconnected. With this understanding, the initiative began to evolve. It expanded its focus to address both environmental and social challenges, identifying key issues affecting young people and families within the community. This shift marked the beginning of a more holistic approach, one that integrates environmental action with social impact. From that transformative period, Mpenda Mazingira Initiative grew from a small school-based scout group into a community-centered youth movement and a supportive family. Its work broadened to include youth mentorship, life skills training, climate action, community sanitation, and social support systems for vulnerable children and young people. Through workshops, outreach programs, and partnerships, the initiative began empowering youth with knowledge, skills, and opportunities helping them build resilience and become active agents of change in their communities. What started with eleven students and a handful of seedlings has now grown into a vibrant movement of young environmental champions and community leaders. It is driven by the belief that healing the planet and healing communities must go hand in hand. Today, the initiative continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, nurturing both the environment and the people within it. The journey of the Mpenda Mazingira Initiative is still unfolding. With every tree planted, every young person mentored, and every community engaged, the movement grows stronger. It stands as a testament to the power of youth, unity, and purpose, a reminder that even the smallest beginnings can lead to meaningful and lasting change. Through continued dedication, the initiative remains committed to building a future that is greener, more inclusive, and sustainable for generations to come.

Where we have been

In January 2021, our journey encountered a defining moment when a new headteacher was appointed to the school. With this leadership transition came a series of changes, some of which led to the unfortunate destruction of a forested area within the school that we had nurtured and protected for years. What had once been a thriving green space, a place of learning, reflection, and connection with nature, was suddenly cleared. For us, this was more than just the loss of trees; it was the loss of a living symbol of our efforts, our identity, and our shared commitment to environmental care.

The impact was deeply felt among students and teachers alike. There was a sense of grief, but also a growing realization of how fragile our environment can be when not actively protected. Rather than allowing this moment to discourage us, it ignited a stronger sense of purpose. It became a turning point, a call to action that united us even more.

Under the leadership of Abel Ondigi, the group came together with renewed determination. He rallied us around a clear and urgent mission: to restore what had been lost and to ensure that such a loss would not define our future. We committed ourselves to replanting trees, rehabilitating the degraded area, and creating new green spaces that would serve both the environment and the school community. This effort was not only about replacing what was destroyed, but about rebuilding hope, resilience, and a deeper understanding of environmental responsibility

Day by day, our commitment grew stronger. Each seedling planted became a statement, that we would not give up, that we would continue to protect what matters, and that young people have the power to lead change. The experience also broadened our perspective, helping us understand that environmental conservation requires structure, continuity, and collective action beyond the school level.

This realization led to a major milestone in 2023. While we were in Form 2, we took a bold and transformative step by officially registering as a Community-Based Organization (CBO). This formal recognition marked a new chapter in our journey. It gave us the platform, legitimacy, and capacity to expand our impact beyond the school environment and into the wider community.

With this growth came an expanded vision. We began to integrate mental health advocacy, mentorship for boys, and youth empowerment into our work, recognizing that environmental challenges are deeply connected to social issues. We saw the importance of building not just greener spaces, but also stronger, more supported young people. Our initiative evolved into a safe and inclusive platform where young people could express themselves, access guidance, and find a sense of belonging.

Through community workshops, clean-up campaigns, tree-planting drives, and mentorship programs, we have continued to restore both the environment and the social fabric around us. Our work today goes beyond conservation—it is about nurturing a generation that cares, leads, and takes responsibility for both people and the planet.

What began as a response to loss has grown into a movement rooted in resilience, unity, and purpose. We are not only rebuilding ecosystems; we are building a community that uplifts one another and works collectively toward a more sustainable and compassionate future.

Where we are

Today, the Mpenda Mazingira Initiative has grown into a vibrant and impactful movement, bringing together more than 197 dedicated teenagers and young adults who are actively championing sustainable development, environmental conservation, and the vision of a healthier, greener future for their communities. What began as a small group of passionate students has evolved into a powerful network of young changemakers united by purpose, resilience, and a shared responsibility to protect the planet.

These young leaders are deeply engaged in a wide range of initiatives designed to address pressing environmental challenges at the grassroots level. From organizing tree-planting campaigns and restoring degraded landscapes to implementing recycling and waste management programs, their work reflects both innovation and commitment. They also play a critical role in raising awareness about climate change, helping communities understand its impacts while promoting practical, locally driven solutions. Through environmental education and advocacy, they are shaping mindsets and encouraging sustainable behaviors that extend far beyond their immediate circles.

A key pillar of the initiative is capacity building. Members regularly participate in workshops, mentorship sessions, and hands-on training that equip them with essential skills in leadership, environmental stewardship, climate action, and community engagement. These learning opportunities not only empower them to respond effectively to environmental issues but also prepare them to become responsible leaders and role models within society.

Beyond their projects, the initiative has fostered a strong sense of community and belonging among its members. Their collective enthusiasm, teamwork, and dedication continue to inspire peers, families, and local stakeholders, gradually building a culture of sustainability and shared responsibility. By leading through action, they demonstrate that young people are not just beneficiaries of change but powerful drivers of it.

Together, they carry a bold and hopeful vision: a world where every individual recognizes their role in protecting the environment, where communities live in harmony with nature, and where future generations inherit a planet that is not only preserved but restored and thriving.