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Climate Action Through Citizen Science

KENAWRUA CEO Enock Kiminta explaining the importance of measuring water quality and quantity. 

In a bid to promote environmental awareness and climate action through citizen science, the Mara Basin Conservation Forum, in partnership with Ecolink, the Diamonds on the soles of our feet (DSF), and the Kenya National Water Resources Users Association (KENAWRUA), held a sensitization exercise in Kilgoris focusing on community-led conservation.

The activity began at River Sankale, where KENAWRUA CEO Enock Kiminta led Mara Basin members through a practical session on how to measure water quality and quantity.
Kiminta demonstrated how to distinguish safe water from polluted sources and emphasized the dangers posed by human activities and sewage contamination.

“Measuring water quality and quantity will help us know whether the water is safe for use or not,” said Kiminta, urging participants to identify existing gaps in water management and take proactive steps to address them.

Afterward, the team proceeded to Nasira Nkujit Primary School, where they extended the same lessons to students, teachers and community members.

Kenya Forest Service officer Anastasia Jepkirui planting a tree seedling during the citizen science event at Nasira Nkujit primary school.

 The discussion, led by Dr. Jacqueline Goldin (CEO, DSF), Alfred Owino (Chairman, Mara Basin Conservation Forum), and Blaise Janichon (CEO, Ecolink), centered on the role of citizen science in fostering climate resilience and environmental responsibility both within schools and across the wider community.

Dr. Golding illustrated the importance of individual action using the story of the hummingbird, a symbol of doing one’s part, no matter how small.

“Like the hummingbird, each of us has a role to play. Our small efforts count, and together, they make a big difference,” she said.

Beyond the sensitization, the visiting organizations expressed concern over the poor learning conditions at the school. Some classrooms, particularly those used by early childhood learners, lack doors, have cracked floors and are short of desks and learning materials. The team pledged to explore ways they can assist in improving the facilities to create a safer and more conducive learning environment.

The event highlighted the connection between environmental conservation, education and community empowerment, reminding residents that tackling climate challenges begins with informed, collective action.

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