In a riveting episode of Mazingira Mtaani on Radio Maria, Brian, an alumnus of the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice, took us through the remarkable work being carried out at the Kariobangi Social Justice Centre.
The conversation provided a comprehensive look into the centre’s pillars of focus, the inspiration behind its activities, and the positive effects being felt across the community.
Kariobangi Social Justice Centre:
When asked about the initiative’s focus, Brian described the four pillars driving their mission: Environment and Climate Justice, Gender-Based Violence, Governance and Accountability, and Wellness and Mental Health.
“We rely on a network of committed volunteers for each pillar,” Brian explained. “Each team follows a structured work plan and operates independently but cohesively. Quarterly reports ensure we stay accountable and track our progress effectively.”
How Training Shaped a Visionary Leader
Brian reflected on his transformative experience at the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice, an initiative led by the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA). The program brought together youth, activists, and scholars from across Africa and beyond, including countries like the Philippines and Ecuador.
“It was more than training; it was a platform for knowledge exchange,” Brian shared. “The experts we worked with shared practical examples that have helped me build actionable solutions for my community.”
Brian acknowledged how the knowledge gained has been pivotal in guiding his work at the Kariobangi Social Justice Centre. “The lessons I learned there are the backbone of our initiatives today.”
Mental Wellness:
One of the standout pillars discussed was mental wellness. Brian recounted how the centre responded to the devastating floods in the Kariobangi slums by creating the Peace Hub Centre.
“The Peace Hub became a central point for resource mobilization,” Brian explained. “We provided essentials like mattresses and emotional support for families who had lost their belongings or loved ones. It was a reminder of how interconnected mental health and community resilience are.”
Environmental Advocacy in Action
Brian highlighted the centre’s efforts in environmental advocacy, including waste management and tree planting. “We conduct capacity-building sessions in schools, community forums, and even churches to teach proper waste management practices,” he said.
He shared that several schools in the Kariobangi area have embraced tree planting, with students taking responsibility for nurturing the trees. “It’s about fostering a sense of ownership and showing people that small actions can lead to significant change,” he emphasized.
Collaborating for a Greater Impact
Brian also spoke about partnerships with organizations like Nawiri Africa, which focus on agroecology, food sovereignty, and integrating indigenous knowledge.
“These collaborations have allowed us to broaden our impact,” Brian shared. “By working together, we’ve been able to reach more people and address issues from multiple angles.”
Transforming the Riverside, A Community-Led Initiative
A standout moment in the conversation was the story of the Riverside People’s Park. Brian detailed how the community came together to clean up a waste-filled river in Kariobangi North.
“Once the cleanup was complete, someone suggested transforming the area into a safe space,” Brian said. “That idea led to the creation of the Peace Hub, which now serves as a gathering point for mental wellness discussions and community building.”
“Climate justice is a human rights issue, and every individual has a role to play. This is not just about organizations but about every person taking responsibility for their environment.”
