ENVOYEZ-NOUS UN E-MAIL À ajan@jesuits.africa
APPELEZ-NOUS MAINTENANT (+254-20) 3884 528
FAITES UN DON A NOS CAUSES

Greening for a Greener Future: AHAPPY Trainees in Hola, Kenya Lead a Tree Planting Initiative

La African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN) is inspired by the unwavering commitment of the youth from Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Youths, Hola, under the Catholic Diocese of Garissa, Kenya, who are putting into practice the knowledge and skills gained through the AHAPPY program. Earlier this year, a group of youth leaders from the parish participated in the AHAPPY Training of Trainers, held at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, Bura-Tana, from 22nd to 26th April 2025 — and their leadership since then has sparked inspiring action among their peers.

Youth leaders from Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Youths, Hola, pictured with Fr. Ismael Matambura, SJ (centre), Director of AJAN, Seminarian Lenard Kingara, Youth Chaplain of the Catholic Diocese of Garissa and AHAPPY Facilitators at the conclusion of the 5-day AHAPPY Training of Trainers held at St. Jude Thaddeus Catholic Church, Bura-Tana.

According to a report shared by Brian Kibet, one of the AHAPPY trainees and youth leaders, on 19th July 2025, under the guidance of trained youth leaders, a team of 15 dedicated youths came together for a bold and vibrant tree planting initiative themed “Greening for a Greener Future.” Held at Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, the project aimed to promote environmental awareness, ecological responsibility, and strengthen community engagement.

Youths digging holes for tree planting.

Located in Tana River County, Hola is known for its hot, dry, and partly cloudy climate. Despite these tough environmental conditions, the youth took a courageous step by planting 500 trees, demonstrating their deep belief that caring for the Earth is caring for their future.

The initiative went beyond just tree planting — it featured interactive sessions on climate change, sustainability, and the role of young people in environmental conservation.

“We’re not just planting trees; we’re planting hope for a greener future.”Brian Kibet, Youth Participant

This action builds on momentum from the Environmental Awareness Seminar held on 17th June 2025, where 30 youths explored issues around climate change, sustainable living, and practical ways to care for the environment. A demonstration on tree care and nurturing was also part of the event, ensuring the long-term survival of the planted trees.

Group photo of AJAN Family representatives together with Seminarian Lenard Kingara, Youth Chaplain of the Catholic Diocese of Garissa.

The youth capped the day with a group photo — a powerful moment of pride, unity, and commitment to a cause greater than themselves. Their actions echoed the spirit of Laudato Si’ (“Praise be to You”), the landmark encyclical released in 2015 by the late Pope Francis, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi’s “Canticle of the Sun”, in which creation is praised as “Brother Sun,” “Sister Moon,” et leur “our sister Mother Earth.”

In Laudato Si’, Pope Francis emphasized the vital relationship between people and the natural world, calling for an ecological conversion rooted in love and responsibility. He reminded us that:

“Nature cannot be regarded as something separate from ourselves or as a mere setting in which we live. We are part of nature, included in it and thus in constant interaction with it.”

He beautifully affirmed that the entire universe reflects God’s care and presence: “Soil, water, mountains: everything is, as it were, a caress of God.”

By planting trees and raising environmental awareness, the youth of Hola are honoring this vision, becoming stewards of creation and carrying forward a powerful legacy of ecological justice and hope.

Looking ahead and motivated by this success, the youth group is planning:

  • Regular monitoring and care for the trees
  • Expanding the project to involve more community members
  • Integrating environmental themes into ongoing youth programs

Thanks to the support of the AJAN Family et leur A Happy Generation, the Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Youths – Hola are cultivating not only trees, but a strong spirit of responsibility, leadership, and hope.

Par, Dennis Owuoche,

Chargée de communication, AJAN

Dennis Owuoche

Dennis Owuoche Shadrack is the AJAN Communications and Research officer, Having joined AJAN in 2022 he has a broad experience in content writing; statements, press releases , website management, brand development, developing communications strategies and managing the social media, disseminating knowledge products, preparing flyers, reports and spreading other materials in order to enhance awareness about HIV and support Holistic development of the young people as a AHAPPY Trainer.

VIEW ALL POSTS

INSCRIPTION À LA NEWSLETTER

Inscrivez-vous maintenant pour recevoir des mises à jour par e-mail sur les événements en cours à AJAN Afrique.

fr_FRFrançais