Greetings esteemed members of WWF and fellow advocates for environmental conservation,

I am honored to stand before you today on behalf of the Orthodox Christian Youth Association of Kenya (OCYAK), a vibrant organization dedicated to empowering young people and addressing pressing issues such as climate change. As we all know, Africa, and Kenya in particular, is disproportionately affected by the devastating impacts of climate change. From extreme weather events to food insecurity and homelessness, the effects are stark and deeply felt in our communities.

As we gather here today, I am reminded of the shared values and goals that unite us. WWF, with its decades of experience and expertise in conservation, and OCYAK, with its passion and commitment to youth empowerment, are natural allies in the fight against climate change. As we celebrate WWF’s 60-plus years of impactful work, OCYAK is also marking a significant milestone, turning 58 this year. We may be younger in age, but our dedication to making a difference is unwavering.

Last December, OCYAK hosted a Mega Youth Conference that brought together close to 1,000 Orthodox youth to discuss the role of young people and the church in addressing climate change. This event was a resounding success, sparking innovative ideas and initiatives that continue to inspire our youth today. We are proud to have been recognized by the office of the President of Kenya for our pioneering efforts in this area.

One of the key outcomes of the conference was the launch of Project Green, a nationwide project aimed at tackling climate change through strategic collaborations and partnerships. It is under this pillar that we invite WWF to join us in our upcoming event, the Annual Mega Youth Sunday.

Scheduled for the 14th of April 2024 at the Holy Trinity Orthodox Church in Muguga, the Annual Mega Youth Sunday is a unique opportunity to engage over 700 enthusiastic young people in a dialogue on environmental stewardship and spirituality. By funding this event, WWF would not only be supporting OCYAK but also laying the foundation for a meaningful partnership that can drive real change in our communities.

Together, we can amplify our voices, mobilize our resources, and inspire others to join us in this crucial mission. Let us seize this moment to forge a partnership that will benefit not only our organizations but also the planet and future generations.

Thank you for considering our proposal. We look forward to a fruitful collaboration ahead.

In Christ’s love and service,

FOR: ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN YOUTH ASSOCIATION OF KENYA JOSHUA KIMANI