Reflections from the Climate YES Kenya SDG Workshop by Augustine Muema

On July 5th, 2025, Climate YES Kenya held a vibrant and thought-provoking workshop inNairobi, bringing together 23 youth leaders and members of Climate YES to explore and
accelerate progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With only five years remaining to meet the 2030 deadline, the urgency of the moment was clear and so was the energy and dedication of the young participants.

Hosted at the Franciscan Family Centre, the one-day workshop provided a platform for youth from Nairobi and its surrounding area and also a member from Kisumu to engage deeply with the SDGs and their relevance to local communities. Despite budget constraints that limited participation, those in attendance represented a rich diversity of denominations and shared a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, faith-based advocacy, and sustainable development.

Guided by facilitator Mr. Lawrence Ogutu Sogoh, the workshop covered key topics including the history of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), the current state of SDG implementation in Kenya, and the vital roles youth and faith actors play in driving change.

Through group discussions and presentations, participants explored the challenges faced by young people in SDG advocacy and identified practical ways to amplify their voices. Among the workshop’s most significant outcomes were strengthened partnerships, action-oriented mindsets, and a renewed sense of purpose. Participants were not only equipped with knowledge and tools for SDG engagement but also encouraged to forge alliances with civil society and government actors to create a greater impact.

The workshop concluded with a call to action: to mentor more young advocates, initiate local SDG initiatives, and even begin aligning efforts with Agenda 2063—Africa’s broader vision for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

The journey toward 2030 is far from over, but the Climate YES workshop affirmed a powerful truth: Kenya’s youth are ready to lead. With faith, innovation, and collaboration at the core, they are building a future where no one is left behind.