Ambassador Esther Waringa, President of Public Service Governance (PSG) and leader of Kenya’s Oasis Movement, delivered a powerful keynote address at Strathmore University during the World Environment Day celebrations themed “Youth in Action: Sustainable Solutions for a Healthier Planet.”
The event, organized by the International Relations Students Association of Kenya (IRSAK), the Strathmore Environmental Sustainability Community (SESC), and Zingira Organization, brought together students, environmentalists, and international dignitaries to reflect on the urgent need for collective climate action.
Addressing the vibrant audience, Amb. Waringa emphasized the role of youth as leaders and innovators in the global climate movement. “As youth, we are not just inheriting the world—we are taking the lead in reshaping it,” she said, urging young people to move beyond advocacy and take tangible action in addressing climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.
She spotlighted youth-led innovations in clean energy, circular economies, and sustainable urban solutions as proof of the transformational power of grassroots leadership. “Sustainable solutions are not a distant dream; they are happening now, and we are making them happen,” she affirmed.
Beyond youth activism, Waringa stressed the importance of governance in achieving environmental sustainability. She outlined a five-point plan to strengthen environmental policy: enacting enforceable, science-based laws; building capacity in public institutions; integrating sustainability into national budgets; promoting transparency; and ensuring inclusive public participation.
“Good governance is the backbone of environmental sustainability,” she declared. “We must align our laws, budgets, institutions, and values with environmental stewardship.”
Her sentiments were echoed by Ian Abuki, President of the Sustainable Energy Solutions Coalition (SESC), who called for greater collaboration between governments, businesses, and civil society. “The youth are our greatest asset in the fight against climate change,” he said, urging support for youth-driven innovation.
H.E. Ambassador Hashemite, Permanent Representative to UNEP from the Embassy of the Kingdom of Jordan, also addressed the gathering, emphasizing that young people must be integrated into environmental policy-making. “They are not just the leaders of tomorrow—they are the leaders of today,” he stated.
The event closed with a renewed call for unity and innovation, as participants pledged to champion sustainable practices and policy reforms. As climate challenges grow, voices like Ambassador Waringa’s continue to inspire a generation to lead the charge toward a healthier, greener planet.