Kenya’s ‘Mazingira’ Day takes center stage at FAIPS

• H.E. Halima Abdille Mahmoud, Ambassador of Kenya to Kuwait, highlighted the significance of environmental conservation and the negative factors affecting the planet, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.

The Embassy of the Republic of Kenya in Kuwait celebrated ‘Mazingira’ (Kenyan Environment Day) on October 10, in collaboration with UN Habitat, Kuwait, and Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School in Ahmadi.

The event was marked by great enthusiasm and aimed to raise awareness about environmental issues while promoting sustainability among students, who are the future stewards of the environment.

The event, held in the school auditorium, featured a galaxy of esteemed ambassadors and dignitaries united in their commitment to protecting our planet.

Guests who graced the occasion included H.E. Dr. Zubaydullo Zubaydov, the Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Ambassador of Tajikistan to Kuwait, H. E. Karen Hideko Sasahara, Ambassador of United States of America to Kuwait, H.E. Abdoulkader Houssein Omar, Djibouti, H.E. Dr. Sied Muhumed Jibrill, Ethiopia, H.E. Dr. Abdullahi Mohamed Sheikh Abdullahi, Somalia, H.E. Dr. El-Anrif Said Hassane, The ambassador of Comoros to Kuwait, H.E. Nkululeko Horace Dlamini, Eswatini, H.E. Sman Manan, Cambodia ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Filip Katic, the ambassador of Serbia to Kuwait, H.E. Mr. Ali Ben-Aissa, Morocco, H.E. Mrs. Haja IshataThomas, the ambassador of Sierra Leone to Kuwait, Nisreen Al-Rubaian, UNHCR Representative in Kuwait, H.E. Marh Zhoock Issane Daniel, Central African Republic, H.E. Younos Abdul Karim, Malawi ambassador to Kuwait, H.E. Mohammed Habib Idris, Ghana, H.E. Hummad Yahia Hali, Eritrea, H.E. Mohamed Saad Ouro-Sama, Togolese Republic, H.E. Murtala Jimoh, Nigeria, and Mr. Arun Chaudhary, CFO and Head Strategist of Al-Rayan Holding Company.

Mrs. Mammako Mary Mohale Lerata (Lesotho), Mr. Marwan Alhaddad (USA), Mr. Moiba Ansumana Fofana(Liberia), and Mr. Alhassane Cisse (Guinea) were also present as special invitees.

The program began with the recitation of “Tahe-al-Kuwait” and the Kuwait National Anthem, followed by the recitation of the Holy Quran. The welcome address was delivered by the head boy and the head girl.

In his formal address to the gathering, Principal Mr. Ravi Ayanoli emphasized the importance of environmental stewardship and the role each individual plays in creating a sustainable future.

He expressed his intention to approach issues from a global perspective rather than viewing them solely as national concerns, nurturing students to become responsible global citizens of tomorrow.

H.E. Halima Abdille Mahmoud, Ambassador of Kenya to Kuwait, appreciated her fellow guests for their presence and involvement in the program. She also expressed her high regard for the Principal and the FAIPS team for making the Mazingira event outstanding.

Explaining the origin and importance of ‘Mazingira’ (the Swahili word for environment), the ambassador highlighted the significance of environmental conservation and the negative factors affecting the planet, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Dr. Ameera Al Hassan, Head of UN-Habitat Kuwait & GCC Mission, reiterated the importance of environmental protection and praised the flawless organization of the event.

In her remarks on the occasion of the tree planting exercise at Fahaheel Al-Watanieh Indian Private School (FAIPS) on October 10 – “Mazingira Day” 2024, the Ambassador of Kenya thanked the school’s management and UN-Habitat for their excellent collaboration in organizing the event.

The ambassador stated, “I am pleased that we have been able to dedicate time today for such a worthy cause. Conserving the environment is not only central to our existence but also key to improving our natural habitats and quality of life. The tree planting exercise we are undertaking today is an important gesture by this school, encouraging all of us to take positive action towards environmental conservation.”

She added, “Every year in Kenya, on 10 October, we celebrate ‘Mazingira Day’ (Environment Conservation Day). It is a public holiday during which Kenyans participate in various activities to protect and conserve the environment. As part of this effort, our President has launched a nationwide campaign aimed at planting 15 billion tree seedlings, with the goal of increasing the nation’s forest cover to 30% by 2032.”

“As you know, our world today is confronted with three major crises that threaten our existence on planet Earth: climate change, nature and biodiversity loss, and pollution. Trees play a vital role in mitigating the adverse impacts of these crises by absorbing carbon dioxide, restoring environmentally degraded areas, and supporting biodiversity. Trees are essential for our survival and well-being as they provide the fresh air (oxygen) we breathe,” said the Kenyan ambassador.

The ambassador added, “As an Embassy, we are honored to be part of this important tree-planting exercise to advocate for and promote environmental preservation. I encourage each of us, in our own small ways, to continue taking action to improve our environment and surroundings.”

The Kenyan ambassador and the UN Habitat representative presented a memento to the principal of FAIPS DPS for his contribution to this noble cause. The special assembly culminated with a vote of thanks by the head boy, followed by a tree nurturing activity, where all dignitaries and special guests planted a sapling in the campus to emphasize the importance of Mazingira.

A plethora of cultural activities included a melodious English song in reggae style titled “Back to the Earth,” performed by the Kindergarten “Eco Kids,” and a unique ramp walk by the primary students, which not only entertained the audience but also conveyed an important message.

A rhythmic dance by the senior students on “Echoes of Earth” was also well received by the audience. A video compilation by the Kenyan Embassy of Kuwait highlighted the government’s strategic policy to increase forest cover in Kenya.

Overall, it was an insightful and valuable event crafted in an engaging and creative manner, providing a remarkable experience for the student body present. The program was unique in its aim to inspire students to become advocates for the environment.