Positive action for World Environment Day 2024
How Vipingo Ridge supported World Environment Day
Every day we are making improvements to positively impact the environment. From smaller contributions such tree planting activites for guests, composting initiatives to our vulnerable species breeding programme, we take considered decisions to navigate how to create a world class experience for our stakeholders whilst being sustainable.
An important stakeholder group to deliver our environmental ambitions is the Vipingo Ridge team. With over 400 members and 85% from the local communities it is important all our team are aligned with a sense of ownership of our shared commitment to the environment.
Our team, alongside our County Government and local busineesses came together to complete a walk and tree planting activity.
Kilifi County is focussed on improving the environment
Senior members of County Government were at different sites yesterday planting trees and working with partners to make sure a consistent message of how important restoration of our environment is for now and for future generations. Hon. Felkin Kaingu, the CECM Education and ICT, spoke passionately about the investment we make today is for the future and not the past.
Mr. Charles Kamau, the County Director for Donor and Partnerships also highlighted the great work of our partners and introduced Isaac Mwabonje from Kilifi Innovation Hub who spoke enthusiacally about three of the environmentally sustainable and innovative projects their organisation have started work on. Partners we welcomed were also Ruth Machocho the CEO of Taita Taveta Innovation Hub and sponsor Eco Bank team led by David Ndirangu, who kindly sponsored the event.
The strong commitment of our local government and partners to environmental sustainability is inspiring. The support and active participation highlighted the vital role that government plays in fostering and supporting community-led initiatives aimed at preserving our natural resources.
Walking In Nature
Vipingo Ridge is set in 2500 acres of protected Wildlife Sanctuary. There are some wonderful walks and our group of over 50 were flagged off by the Minister who joined for the whole walk.
During the walk participants were advised to be mindful, minimising device use and also to be connecting to nature. There was an opportunity for litter picking, both to help the environment, but also truly take a closer look.
One guest noted: “I feel like I have a digital detox. I saw many species I have not seen in many years from the millipede to the zebra, a wonderful experience.”
This practical activity is good for the physical and mental health of the team, but also it is important we come together to acknowledge the importance of our environment and take proactive steps towards its preservation.
Tree Planting
This year’s theme, ‘Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience’ resonates deeply with us all. We are reminded of the pressing need to restore our lands, combat desertification, and build resilience against drought. These challenges are not just global issues but local ones that directly impact our community here in Kilifi County.
Our activities today – the walk, clean-up concluded with a tree planting – not just symbolic but practical steps towards achieving our environmental goals. Each tree we plant represents a commitment to a healthier planet and a promise to future generations.
Additionally, a special thank you to all the came and participated. Together, we can make a significant impact. Together, we can ensure a greener, healthier future for all.
As we recognise World Environment Day, we have recently blogged about how we blend a golf course development with a Wildlife Sanctuary and some of our activities to continue to prioritise the environment and therefore our future.
