In the heart of East Africa, there is a rising force for climate justice—a force that has been nurtured and empowered by the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice. Mc Kaka, [PK1] [DR. K2] a distinguished alumnus of Cohort III, has not only forged his path but is now leading a generation towards a greener and more sustainable future as the founder and president of the East Africa Campuses and Colleges Green Network (EACCGN).
The journey of Mc Kaka from an eager summer school participant to the visionary leader of EACCGN exemplifies the transformative power of the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice initiative and the impact of passionate individuals. His journey embodies the essence of the initiative mission, which is to engage and inspire young scholars to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels and towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious world.
Mc Kaka’s vision is a beacon of hope for the East African region, a testament to what can be achieved through diverse engagements and unwavering commitment to the cause. He firmly believes in the power of youth, stating, “We believe that by harnessing the passion, creativity, and intellectual prowess of young people, we can drive significant positive change.”
EACCGN, the dynamic initiative that Mc Kaka leads, has now spread its wings across seven East African countries, including Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and South Sudan. With 36 universities and 10 colleges onboard, the network stands as a powerful catalyst for transformative change.
One of the most significant achievements of EACCGN is the “ITS4U GLOBAL” project, aimed at sensitizing and advocating for a limit on oil, gas, and coal usage. Mc Kaka passionately shares the mission of this project, saying, “Our campaign aims to mobilize communities, businesses, civil societies, sporting activities, faith actors , and the government. We are advocating for individual actions to create awareness, allowing people to make choices that contribute to a world free from fossil fuels.”
Furthermore, EACCGN sets its sights on the global stage with the ambitious goal of influencing global commitments, backed with clear targets and strategies at UNFCCC level and in COPs for climate action. . Mc Kaka voices their concern that despite emissions reductions commitments and escalating climate damages, few countries have clear plans for halting oil, gas, and coal expansion.
His previous efforts in engaging with the Africa Climate Summit is an epitome of what the NSSCJ alumni can do. This landmark event, themed ‘Driving Green Growth and Climate Finance Solutions for Africa and the World,’ achieved significant progress in building a consensus on climate action priorities for the African continent.
Mc Kaka and his team at EACCGN contributed significantly to the youth declaration work stream at the African Youth Climate Assembly (AYCA) event. Their efforts highlight the importance of including young voices and perspectives in climate discussions, and Mc Kaka articulates this, saying, “The involvement of young individuals is vital in discussions surrounding climate action. Our unwavering dedication and enthusiasm to find solutions to the climate crisis is truly commendable.”
