SMACHS Foundation Unveils 82 Youth Ambassadors to Combat Hunger, Climate Change in Counties


In a significant move to address hunger and climate change, the youth-led SMACHS Foundation has unveiled 82 Youth Ambassadors to spearhead sustainable initiatives in 46 counties across Kenya.

The newly launched programme, announced during a ceremony at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) in Nairobi, aims to equip young leaders aged 18 to 32 with the tools and knowledge to champion climate-smart agriculture and engage communities in transformative farming practices.

SMACHS Foundation Founder and Patron, Ms. Charlene Ruto, highlighted the central role of youth in combating these dual challenges. “Young people are not merely victims of climate change and food insecurity—they are innovators, entrepreneurs, and agents of change,” she said. “Through their creativity, leadership, and skills, they have the power to transform food production and drive climate action for a sustainable future.”

Under the foundation’s flagship strategy, The 30 Things, the ambassadors will focus on mobilising their peers, promoting sustainable agricultural methods, and advocating for climate resilience.

The programme attracted over 1,600 applicants, from which 82 were chosen based on leadership potential, passion for agriculture and climate action, and innovative thinking. While the target was to recruit 94 ambassadors—two from each of Kenya’s 47 counties—Lamu County had no applicants, and some counties had limited representation.

Youth participation in agriculture in Kenya remains low, with less than 30% actively involved despite the sector’s critical role in the country’s economy. Yet, agriculture holds immense potential to create employment for the approximately 800,000 young people entering the workforce annually.

By integrating digital and mechanised solutions, the SMACHS Foundation aims to modernise farming practices, making agriculture a more attractive and viable career for young Kenyans.

The initiative aligns with findings from the 2023 African Youth Needs for Climate Action report by the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), which underscored the eagerness of African youth to tackle climate issues and partner with stakeholders for innovative solutions.

SMACHS Foundation’s programme is poised to redefine Kenya’s agricultural landscape. By empowering a new generation of leaders, it seeks to bolster food security, enhance climate resilience, and contribute to the nation’s economic growth.

SMACHS Foundation is a Kenyan youth-led non-profit organisation dedicated to combating hunger and climate change. Through education, innovation, and collaboration, it strives to empower young people to create a sustainable and food-secure future.

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