New climate innovation lab launched in Wajir to empower marginalised youth, women

A regional Inclusion Climate Innovation Lab championing climate justice has officially been launched in Wajir County.

During the launch, the lab brought together ten young climate change-makers, activists, and leaders from Wajir, Mandera, Garissa, and Isiolo counties.

Funded by the Government of Ireland, the Inclusion Climate Innovation Lab is designed to amplify the voices of marginalised young leaders, activists, and innovators in climate action and to serve as a platform for climate justice.

Speaking during the launch, Harun Mwadena, Managing Director of Collaborative Approach Consultancy and Chief Weaver of the Network of Grassroots Organisations and Movements, said the initiative emerged from scientific research conducted through a feasibility study and findings from the GESS Report by the British High Commission in Kenya.

"These studies revealed critical gaps in peer support, funding, and mental wellness for young innovators in underserved regions, who are often left behind despite their remarkable efforts to create a better world," he said.

He emphasised that young leaders have great ideas but often lack the support to scale them up.

“These labs are not just about projects or programme-based interventions – they are about people. We are creating a platform for them to be heard, seen, supported, and to lead,” he stated.

He expressed hope that the targeted groups from historically marginalised and arid regions would gain the skills, mentorship, platforms, and resources needed to advocate for and build climate resilience, promote climate justice, and drive sustainable development.

Rukia Olow, Wajir County Chief Officer for Gender and Social Services, noted the importance of youth leadership and gender inclusion. She commended the growing participation of women in climate and innovation spaces.

She noted that Wajir County has invested in youth empowerment through vocational training and startup support, particularly in sectors such as catering, car washing, and beauty services.

She urged the ten participants selected from Wajir, Garissa, Mandera, and Isiolo to take full advantage of the opportunities offered by the lab to bring positive change to their communities.

“This should not be like just attending a workshop – it is an opportunity to become champions of change within the underserved communities you all represent,” she said.

Fatuma Hussein Hassan, a regional host from Mandera County, explained how the programme seeks to uplift women innovators, noting that 70 per cent of participants were women and girls.

“Women are not just participants but leaders and agents of real change. Their experiences and insights will yield more effective climate responses,” she said.

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She added that women bear the brunt of climate change in a region heavily impacted by extreme climate shocks and that their inclusion will make a meaningful difference.

Professor Yakub Mumin Dahiye, Wajir County Executive Committee Member for Environment, Energy and Climate Change, spoke on the region’s climate challenges and how innovative approaches through this programme can help mitigate the effects of climate shocks.

Representatives from various organisations, including the Kenya Red Cross and members of civil society, attended the event.

The Regional Inclusion Climate Innovation Lab, which is currently in its pilot phase, is expected to expand to Turkana, the Coast region, and Lower Eastern region.