Athletes, community groups unify at Nyali Beach for environmental clean-up

The collective initiative aimed to safeguard the coastal environment and raise public awareness about climate change.

The women took an active lead in collecting trash along the shoreline, highlighting the pivotal role community-based women’s organisations play in environmental stewardship and climate action.

Organisers brought together participants across various sectors to foster environmental responsibility, keep the coastline clear of debris, and protect local marine ecosystems.

For the Nyi Onagi Women Self-Help Group, the event provided a platform to empower women to take a prominent stance on ecological issues directly impacting their neighborhoods.

Nancy Chaba, Financial Secretary of the group, emphasized that environmental conservation extends beyond government agencies and non-profit organizations, requiring active involvement from every citizen.

“As women and as members of our community, we have a responsibility to protect the environment around us. Today we have come together to clean our beach because we understand that a clean environment is important for our health, our families and future generations. We want to encourage more women and community members to take part in activities that protect our environment.”

Chaba added that women are uniquely positioned to drive awareness within their households and broader networks, particularly regarding proper waste management and pollution reduction.

While Nyali Beach stands as one of Mombasa’s key recreational and tourism hubs, plastic pollution and litter continue to threaten its delicate coastal ecosystems.

The clean-up functioned as both a hands-on restoration effort and an educational campaign, reminding residents that preserving the coastline demands ongoing community commitment.

The collaboration between the women's group, the Sports and Recreation Professionals of Kenya, local athletes, and community members illustrated how multi-sector partnerships can advance sustainability.

Looking ahead, the Nyi Onagi Women Self-Help Group urged stakeholders to launch further joint initiatives involving youth, sports organisations, and community leaders.

Under the overarching theme “Our Coast, Our Responsibility,” the day’s message underscored a simple truth: environmental protection begins with individual accountability and collective effort.