Kisumu children take centre stage in climate action drive

Little Miss Environment successfully concluded the Little Miss Environment – Kisumu County edition, an inspiring children-led climate action event aimed at nurturing environmental responsibility, climate change mitigation, and resilience among young people.

The event brought together 20 outstanding child participants who showcased innovative, thoughtful, and practical ideas focused on protecting Lake Victoria, one of Africa’s most vital freshwater ecosystems, and safeguarding UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Kisumu, which face increasing threats from climate change, pollution, and environmental degradation.

Kisumu County remains one of the regions most affected by climate change impacts, particularly rising water levels, pollution, loss of biodiversity, and ecosystem degradation within Lake Victoria and its surrounding heritage sites.

Through this platform, children were empowered to understand these challenges and actively participate in developing solutions.

Participants presented compelling proposals on: climate change mitigation and adaptation strategies; restoration and protection of Lake Victoria; conservation of UNESCO world heritage sites; community awareness and sustainable environmental practices.

The event reinforced the belief that children are not too young to be climate leaders, and that early environmental education is key to building long-term resilience and sustainability.

“Our children are the most affected and we must teach our children to protect what matters most — our lakes, our heritage, and our future. When children understand climate change early, they become powerful advocates for conservation and resilience,” said Joan Musumba, Founder and CEO of Little Miss Environment Kenya.

The Kisumu edition saw 20 contestants shine namely Peace Bilha Sero (Grand Miss Environment Kisumu County), Brandon Aboge (Grand Mister Environment Kisumu County), Paula Pendo (Little Miss Environment Kisumu People’s choice) and Acacia Hera (Little Miss Environment Kisumu).

Others included Marren Akeyo (1st Runner’s Up) Bennieayra Owee (2nd Runnner’s Up), Harry Harwin (Little Mister Environment Kisumu), Angela Williams (Pre teen Miss Enviironment Kisumu) and Sharlet Keith (1st Runner’s Up).

The contest saw other participants bag various titles, including: Favour Janet (2nd Runner’s Up), Ivan Jasper (Pre Teen Mister Environment Kisumu), Taji Cole (Tiny Mister Environment Kisumu), Philip Hope (1st Runner’s Up) and Eliana Ruth Ahadi (Tiny Miss Environment Kisumu).