The Universities Student Leaders Association of Kenya (USLA)  joined the global community in commemorating World Environment Day 2026 through a large-scale community clean-up exercise in Kibra, organized in partnership with SaVE Communities Organization.

The exercise brought together over 300 university and college student leaders from across Kenya, alongside community members, women, youth, children, environmental advocates, and development partners in a strong demonstration of collective responsibility towards environmental conservation and sustainable development.

We were deeply honored by the presence and leadership of Her Excellency Dr. Joyce Gatiria Njagi Kithure, the Second Lady of the Republic of Kenya, who underscored the urgent need for climate action and reminded all stakeholders that environmental sustainability is a shared responsibility that transcends age, profession, status, and geography.

In recognition of her exemplary leadership and commitment to environmental protection, sustainability, and youth inclusion in climate action, USLA conferred upon Her Excellency Dr. Joyce Kithure the USLA Presidential Laureate Award for Environmental Protection, Sustainability Leadership and Youth Inclusion,celebrating her outstanding contribution to advancing environmental stewardship in Kenya.

Her Excellency’s message reaffirmed a fundamental truth: the fight against climate change will not be won by governments alone. It requires active participation from communities, institutions, young people, and citizens committed to protecting the planet for present and future generations.

Today's exercise was more than a clean-up activity. It was an expression of civic responsibility, environmental stewardship, and youth leadership in action. It demonstrated that meaningful change begins when individuals choose action over indifference and service over complacency.

The student leadership fraternity recognizes that environmental degradation remains one of the greatest challenges facing our generation. From climate change and pollution to unsustainable waste management practices, the consequences are felt most acutely by vulnerable communities. We therefore carry both a moral obligation and a leadership responsibility to champion sustainable solutions.

USLA remains committed to mobilizing student leaders across all institutions of higher learning to advance environmental awareness, climate resilience, sustainable development, and community service initiatives throughout the country.

We commend all participants, partners, volunteers, community members, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of this initiative. Your dedication reflects the transformative power of collective action and the critical role of young people in shaping a sustainable future.

As we mark World Environment Day 2026, we call upon all Kenyans to embrace environmental responsibility not as an annual event, but as a daily commitment.