KDF soldiers showcase how culture, climate change are connected during annual event

For the most part, the majority of cultural activities in traditional African societies were centred on environmental conservation to maintain the sanctity of nature.

Over time, however, changes brought about by modernisation have resulted in climate change, the effects of which have led to insecurity, hunger, and loss of life in various parts of the world.

Today, calls are being made for people to return to positive traditional practices that helped conserve the environment, as highlighted during this year's National Defence College (NDC) Cultural Day held at the Uhuru Gardens National Museum and Monument.

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Under the theme "Mitigating Climate Change Through Culture", the event recognised the symbiotic relationship between culture and climate change, as well as the negative effects climate change has had on humanity globally.

"The cultural revival of indigenous practices has often seen the reawakening of pre-colonial habits that modern society would define as sustainable. As such, we view Indigenous people more favourably as better environmental managers, and with the environment now in crisis, it is just as important to protect the world’s cultural diversity as it is to protect the inhabitants of the earth," said Lt Gen David Tarus, the Kenya Army Commander.

He urged attendees to take up the responsibility and role of stewards of the environment and to reflect seriously on the impact of their cultural practices on the natural world.

"While we celebrate this important relationship between culture and climate change, it is also vital to acknowledge that we must continue reviewing and aligning policies to support this critical duality of culture’s role in environmental security," added the General.

The cultural day was hosted by the College's Course Cohort 27 (2024/2025) participants, comprising KDF senior officers, associated civil servants, and their colleagues from 16 allied nations, including Nigeria, India, Ethiopia, Egypt, and Somalia, among others.

These specially selected participants are undergoing a course that prepares them for higher responsibilities in managing national security within their respective countries.

In December 2022, the government launched an ambitious billion-tree planting initiative, aiming to plant 2 billion trees by 2032. The programme is on course, with a large proportion of the trees planted through initiatives led by the Kenya Defence Forces under the Environmental Soldier Programme.

The Army Commander called on Kenyans to plant at least 30 trees each annually to help achieve the set tree cover. He noted that, ahead of the cultural event, the NDC course participants, also known as The Guardians of National Security, had already planted 5,000 seedlings in various areas, including Kikuyu and Mount Longonot.

"Let today’s experience inspire us to champion the integration of culture into climate action, whether through art, policy frameworks, or community-driven initiatives," he urged.

The course participants showcased their diverse cultures and traditions through traditional costumes, art, artefacts, dance, and cuisines. The college's Commandant, Lt Gen Juma Mwinyikai, noted that these displays serve as powerful reminders of the influence cultural celebrations can have in bringing people together.

"The National Defence College’s Cultural Day is a unique catalyst for intercultural dialogue and a critical milestone in the professional careers of the course participants. It aims to graduate individuals who are not only equipped with professional knowledge and skills but also grounded in positive mindsets and respect for other people's cultures and diversity," he said.

Also present at the event were members of the diplomatic corps, retired and serving generals, senior government officials, KDF personnel, and police officers.