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This forest is home to over 200 elephants and some of the rarest mammals, like the elusive Golden-rumped Elephant Shrew and Ader's Duiker. Every visit is a breathtaking reminder of why this natural wonder must be preserved. Yet, with its beauty comes a responsibility—how do we ensure Arabuko Sokoke remains a thriving ecosystem for generations to come? 

This question was at the heart of this year’s World Environment Education Day celebrations, as Wildlife Clubs of Kenya, Coast region together with the MAB 91�鶹������Ʒ���� members, brought the event deep into the forest, transforming it into a living classroom for conservation and environmental awareness.

The day began with an electrifying 5-kilometer awareness procession, rallying the community to recognize the importance of protecting Arabuko Sokoke and its surrounding ecosystems. Flagged off at Dida Gate by the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) Senior Assistant Director for the Coast Region, Adan Kala, the march started with 100 children but quickly swelled to over 600 participants, including students, teachers, rangers, and conservationists.

The sight was powerful feet stamping, dust rising, and voices uniting in chants for conservation. Alongside the marching, students collected plastic waste from roadsides, reinforcing the importance of everyday actions in environmental stewardship. The spirit of togetherness was evident, as hands joined to fight climate change through localized collective action.

The enthusiasm of young minds after a long day of celebration at Vitengeni Mixed Day and Boarding Primary School was undeniable. It was an extraordinary event; unlike anything the community had seen before. Conservationists, experts, and organizations from across the country—including Nairobi—came together to create an engaging and educational experience right in the heart of Kilifi County.

This was more than just a commemoration; it was a call to action. The central message echoed by all present was clear—conservation education must be a priority, starting with the youth. The urgency was captured through thought-provoking skits performed by students, highlighting the ignorance and indifference that often lead to environmental destruction. Through education, the dangerous notion that natural resources are infinite and can be exploited without considering future generations can be uprooted. Guided by the year’s theme, “Local Action, Global Impact,” the event emphasized that conservation starts with individuals and communities. When young children understand the importance of environmental protection, they become lifelong advocates for sustainability.

The Chief Guest, the Assistant County Commissioner, Vitengeni Sub County reinforced this message by urging all schools in the region to join the Wildlife Clubs of Kenya, ensuring that conservation awareness becomes an integral part of students' learning.

KWS Senior Assistant Director Adan Kala and other stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to continuous collaboration in educating Kilifi communities about conserving Arabuko Sokoke Forest, terrestrial forests, mangroves, and marine ecosystems. The message was clear: every ecosystem plays a crucial role in maintaining biodiversity, and local action creates a global impact.

At the event venue, the excitement reached its peak as different organizations and government agencies set up exhibitions showcasing their conservation initiatives. Sustainable farmers, conservationists, and environmental groups working within the Malindi-Watamu-Arabuko Sokoke Biosphere Reserve shared their knowledge and solutions to conservation challenges.

The most captivating section was undoubtedly the live wildlife exhibition, featuring animals brought in by KWS from Malindi and Watamu Marine Parks, Arabuko Sokoke, and Nairobi’s wildlife centers. Over 600 students from 17 schools marveled at the creatures, eager to learn more about their ecological roles.

The event brought together stakeholders including Kenya Wildlife Service, Wildlife Clubs of Kenya, A Rocha Kenya, Eco World Recycling, Friends of Arabuko Sokoke, East African Reptiles, Primate Global and Reefolution Foundation

At the end of the day, the hope was for children to return home brimming with excitement, eager to share their experiences.

Professional snake handlers showcased proper snake relocation techniques and emphasized that killing snakes on sight is unnecessary and harmful to the ecosystem. This lesson was particularly valuable for communities that frequently encounter snakes but may not understand their ecological significance.

Local Action, Global Impact Marking this global event in a remote area—where human-wildlife interactions are part of daily life—was vital. It provided a platform for locals to voice their perspectives, share grievances, and learn solutions to wildlife-related challenges. It was a day of learning, exploration, and conservation.

The knowledge shared, the enthusiasm ignited, and the commitments made on this day will ripple far beyond Vitengeni Primary School. Every conversation sparked, every tree planted, and every piece of plastic collected contributes to a healthier planet.

The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO encourages the youth through the MAB 91�鶹������Ʒ���� to be fully involved in conservation and management of Biosphere Reserves.

• Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB)