Sikiliza Sauti Yetu: How Capacity Building Is Greening Communities

Posted by OAY Kenya on 20-Aug-2025

On 16th August 2025, a truly inspiring and impactful event unfolded in Murema Primary School, Kasarani, drawing together a focused group of individuals and organizations deeply committed to the crucial cause of environmental conservation.

The diverse group of attendees included engaged local residents, government officials, passionate environmental activists, and dedicated representatives from a variety of community-based organizations (CBOs). All were united by a powerful, shared vision for a greener, more sustainable future.

Training the Next Generation of Climate Leaders

The main event of the day was the launch of Green Advocates Africa. This organization stands out as one of the CBOs that has reaped substantial benefits from comprehensive waste management advocacy and leadership skills trainings conducted by the Organisation of African Youth (OAYouth).

This training was undertaken as part of the Sikiliza Sauti Yetu (SSY) project. Green Advocates Africa's visible involvement served as a powerful testament to the tangible and positive outcomes that such targeted capacity-building initiatives can achieve within communities. 

The "Sikiliza Sauti Yetu! Dunia Inaita Project" is an undertaking currently being implemented through a strong consortium of four esteemed organizations: CRAWN Trust Kenya, Organization of African Youth Kenya, Barnfonden, and WeWorld Kenya.

The goal of this project is to significantly strengthen both the capacity and the collective voice of Kenyan youths and civil societies in climate advocacy. The project envisions these organizations operating as independent and influential actors, driving accountability, promoting good governance, and championing sustainable development across the nation.

Partnerships That Power Change

OAY Kenya is taking a leading role in implementing this vital project specifically within Nairobi County. Their efforts are guided by a clear set of objectives designed to create lasting positive change. These aims include;  enhancing the capabilities of diverse civil society groups, encompassing CSOs, CBOs, and educational institutions like schools. This is achieved by providing essential motivation and comprehensive technical training covering critical issues such as climate change mitigation, adaptation, and justice.

The training also delves into vital areas like environmental protection, effective waste management strategies, and powerful advocacy techniques and policy influence methods. The project also seeks to empower both local and respected traditional institutions.

The goal here is to enable them to become active and vocal advocates for ecological protection. This empowerment is fostered through engaging initiatives such as widespread tree planting campaigns and environmental improvement drives.

A core objective is to enhance the influence of these empowered groups. This is accomplished by supporting practical, on-the-ground actions. A key component of this is facilitating locally and youth-led, collaboratively designed climate action research and compelling case studies.

Sikiliza Sauti Yetu in Action

The invaluable findings generated from these research efforts are then utilized to inspire and impact citizen action and inform government response, creating a powerful feedback loop for positive change. To date, the SSY project has achieved remarkable milestones, making significant strides in both fostering a greener, healthier environment and empowering communities throughout its focus areas. 

Ready to make a difference in environmental conservation and empower the next generation of leaders? Join the movement spearheaded by the Sikiliza Sauti Yetu Project and the dedicated organizations like Organization of Africa Youth Kenya. 

Whether through supporting waste management initiatives, participating in climate action research, or advocating for ecological protection, your involvement is crucial in strengthening civil society voices and driving sustainable development in Kenya and across Africa. 

By Faith Ndanu