On 7th March, 2026, the LIVErary – Wangari Maathai Day Edition successfully took place in Lavington, Nairobi, Kenya, bringing together more than 100 changemakers for a powerful day of dialogue, storytelling, and reflection on climate and environmental action.
Participants travelled from across East Africa, with changemakers from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania taking part in the event. Within Kenya, participants came from different parts of the country including Nairobi, Kajiado County, Isiolo County, Wajir County, Garissa County, Kericho County, and other regions, reflecting the growing diversity and reach of the LIVErary community.
The gathering created a vibrant platform for young leaders to engage in conversations around some of the most pressing climate and environmental challenges, including the recent devastating floods in Nairobi. Participants explored how youth-led organizations can strengthen community resilience and create meaningful impact.
Documentary Screening and Forest Protection Conversations
The LIVErary began with a documentary screening from Africa Uncensored, an independent investigative media platform known for producing bold documentaries and public interest journalism. The documentary explored the struggles surrounding Ngong Forest and highlighted the threats facing one of Nairobi’s critical natural ecosystems.
The discussion connected deeply with the legacy of Wangari Maathai, whose lifelong work focused on protecting forests, defending public land, and mobilizing communities to safeguard the environment through civic action.
Participants also reflected on the role of the media as a powerful tool for storytelling and advocacy. Conversations highlighted how responsible journalism can raise awareness, mobilize communities, and defend public resources. Concerns were also raised about ongoing threats to forests, including the vulnerability of Karura Forest, reminding participants that the struggle to protect public forests continues.
Panel One: Storytelling, Policy, and Youth Opportunities
The first panel discussion explored storytelling, environmental justice, and youth leadership in climate action.
Rukia Ahmed of the Green North Eastern Initiative highlighted the importance of storytelling in climate advocacy, emphasizing that policymaking must reflect the lived experiences of communities affected by climate change.
Philcollins Omondi from Amnesty International reflected on the enduring legacy of Wangari Maathai as a symbol of courage and civic responsibility, while encouraging young changemakers to explore sustainable models for development work as global development funding continues to shrink.
Cecilia Lubango from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Tanzania urged youth organizations to focus on solving real community challenges rather than assumed problems.
The panel was moderated by Boniface Harrison, Executive Director of MuemAction Post.
Panel Two: Youth, Culture, and Community Solutions
The second panel discussion explored the role of youth, culture, and community-driven innovation in climate action.
Johnson Ong’any from Saabiko Group of Friends emphasized the role of children and youth as powerful agents of change whose ideas and leadership must be nurtured early.
Zamzam Bonaya from the Kenya Voluntary Service Organization highlighted the role of culture and volunteerism in strengthening environmental action and building leadership among young people.
Margaret Kimani shared insights on how communities in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands can adopt climate-smart agriculture innovations to strengthen resilience and improve livelihoods.
The discussion was again moderated by Boniface Harrison.
Global Connection: The Origin of the LIVErary
Before the storytelling session, Brian Seroney facilitated a special segment featuring a live virtual keynote by Joanna Sustento of Roots in the Philippines.
Joanna shared the origin of the LIVErary, explaining how the concept began after a devastating typhoon struck their town. Storytelling became a way for survivors to process grief, rebuild hope, and strengthen community resilience.
The LIVErary Storytelling Experience
The storytelling session brought together storytellers from Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania who shared personal journeys of resilience, courage, and hope. Participants reflected on the stories shared, connecting deeply with the experiences and lessons from fellow changemakers.
Although the storytelling session had initially been planned for the outdoor space, rain moved it indoors, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere that strengthened the connection among participants.
Collaboration and Partnerships
The LIVErary – Wangari Maathai Day Edition was made possible through collaboration with a wide network of partners including MuemAction Post, The SPAC Network, Africa Water Ambassadors, Saabiko Group of Friends, GreenFaith Kenya, Dynamic Tales, Tendet Foundation, Young Environmentalist At Heart, Agenda Halisi, Green North Eastern Initiative, Greenfirm, Kevian Kenya Limited, Restora Earth Initiative, Nduta Angels Foundation, Eco Umoja, Africa Uncensored, and Roots.
Together, these partners contributed funding, technical expertise, and visibility that made the event a success.
The LIVErary continues to grow as a platform for mentorship, storytelling, and the elevation of emerging changemakers working toward a just and sustainable future.
If you would like to be part of the upcoming LIVErary edition as a partner, storyteller, or participant, reach out to us via liverary@muemactionpost.org.
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