Attendees pose for pictures during the workshop/photo file/
A transformative gathering focused on youth, governance, and sustainable development unfolded at the Homa Bay Africa For SDGs Hub last week. Running from Thursday to Sunday, the event brought together students from Rongo University, Kisii University, and Kisii Polytechnic, providing a platform for insightful discussions and practical training on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Themed #Uwaziuongozini (Awareness in Leadership), the event underscored the critical role of youth in shaping Africa’s future. Attendees, ranging from students to emerging leaders, engaged in workshops, panel discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at empowering them to take a more active role in governance and the global sustainability agenda.
A highlight of the event was a keynote address by Dr. Joe Bonga, CEO of Africa For SDGs, a leading advocate for intergenerational collaboration and youth-led change. Dr. Bonga emphasized the importance of empowering young people with the skills and knowledge necessary to tackle pressing issues such as climate change, inequality, and sustainable economic development. He called for greater youth involvement in shaping policies that affect their future, stating, “The energy, creativity, and passion of Africa’s youth are essential in the fight to achieve the SDGs.”
Dr. Bonga was joined by Ms. Beatrice Khalivitsi, an expert trainer and stakeholder with Africa For SDGs, who led several hands-on workshops. Her sessions equipped participants with advocacy tools, leadership skills, and insights into sustainable practices, empowering them to return to their communities as effective ambassadors of the SDGs.
The venue—the Homa Bay Africa Forest SDG Hub—was a fitting backdrop for discussions on sustainability, located in a region known for its rich biodiversity but also its environmental challenges. The Hub, dedicated to advancing sustainable development in the region, provided a space for students to engage in dialogue on issues that directly affect their communities, such as deforestation, water scarcity, and renewable energy solutions.
Throughout the event, there was a palpable sense of urgency and optimism among participants, as they brainstormed concrete actions to promote the SDGs at local and national levels. Many students expressed renewed motivation, with some already planning to launch SDG awareness campaigns within their universities.
The event also offered valuable networking opportunities, allowing students to form connections with like-minded peers, educators, and experienced leaders. The exchanges that took place are expected to pave the way for future collaborations and initiatives focused on sustainable development across Kenya.
“The knowledge and skills I have gained here will help me engage my peers back at university and in my community. I now feel empowered to advocate for the SDGs and take meaningful action,” said one participant, a student from Kisii University.
The gathering’s impact extended beyond the individual level, with discussions highlighting the importance of partnerships to achieve the SDGs. Dr. Bonga’s vision aligns with SDG Goal 17 (Partnerships for the Goals), which calls for collaboration across sectors and regions to address global challenges. His message resonated deeply with the students, many of whom expressed a commitment to building cross-institutional networks that could lead to collaborative projects on issues such as climate action and education for all.
As the event concluded, it was clear that this was not a one-off initiative, but rather the beginning of a sustained effort to mobilize youth across Kenya toward meaningful engagement in governance and sustainable development. The relationships fostered during the event are expected to grow, laying the groundwork for a more engaged, informed, and proactive generation of young leaders.
