In a powerful demonstration of partnership and community-driven climate action, Climate, Waste Management, Sanitation and Health Initiatives (CWSHI), a Civil Society Organization (CSO) based in Makueni County, in collaboration with Partnership for Transformational Development (PTD) Kenya, took a bold step in promoting environmental sustainability and climate resilience at Unoa Comprehensive School in Wote.
Under the thematic area of Environment and Climate Resilience, the initiative focused on waste management education and practical support, where CWSHI and PTD Kenya distributed waste bins and a handcart to the school. This intervention aimed to enhance proper waste disposal, recycling, and general cleanliness within the institution — ensuring a healthy and sustainable learning environment for the over 1,700 pupils, 46 teachers, parents, and members of the Board of Management (BoM) present.
Empowering Pupils Through Environmental Education
During the session, Ms. Ruth Maingi, the Executive Director of CWSHI, led an engaging and practical training session where she sensitized the learners, teachers, and parents on the importance of maintaining a clean environment. She explained the different categories of waste — organic and inorganic — and emphasized the importance of separating waste at the source.
Organic waste, such as food remains, fruit peels, and leaves, can be composted and later used to enrich school gardens, while inorganic waste, like plastic bottles, paper, and metallic cans, should be collected, sorted, and recycled. Ms. Maingi demonstrated creative ways of reusing plastic bottles — turning them into seedling pots, flower vases, and even handwashing stands. She encouraged pupils to become environmental champions both at school and at home, reminding them that cleanliness begins with individual responsibility.
“When you throw waste properly and reuse materials, you are not just keeping your school clean — you are saving the planet,” remarked Ms. Maingi during her address.
PTD Kenya’s Commitment to Climate Resilience
Mr. Joseph Kioko, the Executive Director of PTD Kenya, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to climate resilience initiatives that empower communities to live sustainably. He emphasized that protecting the environment is not just a school responsibility but a collective duty for all citizens. PTD Kenya continues to engage with learning institutions, local groups, and government entities to promote sustainable waste management, tree planting, and renewable energy use.
Mr. Kioko noted that such partnerships between CSOs and learning institutions are essential in building a generation that is eco-conscious, innovative, and responsible in environmental conservation.
Unoa Comprehensive School Leading by Example
The Head of Institution, Ms. Winfred Sila, expressed her heartfelt gratitude to CWSHI and PTD Kenya for their timely intervention and passion for youth education. She pledged to ensure that environmental cleanliness becomes a daily culture at Unoa. Ms. Sila has been instrumental in transforming the school through collaboration with various stakeholders, turning Unoa into one of the most progressive learning institutions in Makueni County.
Some of the remarkable partnerships she has spearheaded include:
- The County Government of Makueni, which has supported the school’s special needs unit with wheelchairs and learning materials.
- The Office of the First Lady, H.E. Rachel Ruto, which facilitated the drilling of a borehole, solarization, and water distribution systems, ensuring access to clean water and sustainable energy.
- Greening the Unoa Playground, an initiative that transformed the once dry and dusty field into a lush, green recreation area through grass planting and tree care programs.
Ms. Sila urged PTD Kenya and CWSHI to continue being the school’s development ambassadors, helping to lobby for additional resources. She highlighted pressing needs such as constructing a perimeter wall for security, and more tuition blocks to accommodate the growing number of learners.
Appreciating Partnerships for Sustainable Impact
Mr. Daniel Kisyanga, the BoM Chairperson, commended both CWSHI and PTD Kenya for their unwavering commitment to education and environmental conservation. He noted that such initiatives reflect true community support and complement the government’s efforts toward achieving a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment.
In the same event, Mr. Daniel Mutunga, the Chairperson of the Makueni Civil Society Network (MACSON) — a network of over 50 CSOs working under various thematic areas — applauded the collaborative effort. He noted that this initiative is a perfect example of how CSOs can work together to bring practical change at the grassroots level. MACSON, through its coordination, continues to encourage member organizations to promote transparency, accountability, and sustainability in all their programs.
Building a Cleaner, Greener Future
The Unoa Comprehensive School waste management initiative marks a significant milestone in the journey toward a cleaner and climate-resilient Makueni County. By integrating education, community participation, and practical support, CWSHI and PTD Kenya have demonstrated that small actions — when collectively embraced — can lead to lasting impact.
“Clean surroundings reflect a clean mindset. Let’s nurture our environment the same way we nurture our dreams — with care, patience, and commitment.”
