TAGDev 2.0, Egerton University led by the Program Coordinator Prof. Nancy Mungai paid a visit to Team Climate Change Naivasha (TCCN) on 28th January 2025. This engagement marked a crucial step in fostering collaboration between academic institutions and grassroots organizations to drive sustainable solutions for environmental protection and economic empowerment.
TCCN, a youth-led and registered Socio-Economic and Non-Governmental Environmental Organization, is committed to promoting environmental conservation and sustainable waste management practices in Naivasha sub-county. By actively engaging young people in eco-friendly initiatives, TCCN has played a pivotal role in transforming waste into wealth, reducing environmental degradation, and creating employment opportunities for vulnerable youth.
The visit by TAGDev 2.0 aimed to explore partnership opportunities that align with the broader objectives of green innovation, tree-growing initiatives, and job creation. With climate change posing a significant challenge to global food security and livelihoods, such collaborations are essential in fostering climate-resilient communities and sustainable agricultural practices.
During the meeting, representatives from both organizations deliberated on various strategic areas for collaboration. One of the key focus areas was tree-growing initiatives aimed at increasing forest cover and mitigating climate change effects. By leveraging TCCN’s expertise in community mobilization and TAGDev 2.0’s research and technical knowledge, the partnership seeks to various initiatives.
One of the critical areas of discussion was green innovation. The meeting highlighted the potential of upcycling waste materials into valuable products, promoting circular economy models, and enhancing agribusiness opportunities for young people. TCCN has been at the forefront of innovative waste management solutions, turning discarded plastics into useful items and biodegradable waste into organic fertilizers. TAGDev 2.0, through its engagement with agripreneurs, aims to support such innovations by providing mentorship, funding opportunities, and market linkages for youth-led green enterprises.
Job creation for vulnerable young women and men was also a key agenda of the discussions. The collaboration envisions skill-building programs targeting unemployed youth, equipping them with knowledge in agroecology, sustainable waste management, and environmental entrepreneurship. By integrating environmental conservation with economic empowerment, the initiative seeks to address both unemployment and environmental degradation, ensuring a just and sustainable future. To achieve sustainability, the members are going to be capacity built and incubated in green innovation. This approach will ensure that TCCN continues to thrive as a leading force in environmental conservation while equipping its members with essential skills to drive long-term change.
TAGDev 2.0 remains dedicated to empowering young people in agriculture and environmental sustainability through strategic partnerships.
Written By:
Ian Kamau.
Communication Intern, TAGDev 2.0 Program, Egerton University.
