By Violet Auma | violetmedia8@gmail.com
Kakamega High School has taken a bold step in environmental stewardship by joining a collaborative air quality monitoring program spearheaded by the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), Athletics Kenya and Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI).
The initiative, which integrates air quality monitoring with sports, aims to raise awareness about pollution and climate action while promoting cleaner environments for students and athletes.
Dr. Julius Mambili, the Chief Principal of Kakamega High School, expressed his enthusiasm about the project, emphasizing the school’s commitment to environmental conservation.
“As a school, we have a clear policy to protect our environment. We believe in instilling a culture of sustainability in our students, ensuring that they not only maintain a clean school environment but also contribute positively to their communities,” Dr. Mambili stated.
Kakamega High School is among several institutions in Kenya, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda participating in the initiative.
Through the installation of air quality monitoring sensors, schools can now track pollution levels and take necessary measures to create a healthier learning and sporting environment.
“These monitors will help us detect toxic substances in the air and inform us of pollution levels,” Dr. Mambili explained.
“They also measure temperature, humidity and even provide weather predictions. This is not only beneficial for our students’ health but also useful for our sports teams, ensuring they train and compete in a safe environment.”
The Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) is a science-policy organization playing a key role in this initiative by promoting the use of scientific research to inform air pollution mitigation strategies in schools.
The initiative is particularly relevant to Kakamega High School, home to the renowned Green Commandos, a football team with a rich history of success in national competitions.
The school also excels in athletics, with two students set to represent the western region in the upcoming national athletics championships in Mombasa.
“Air pollution affects physical performance,” noted Amos Wamanga, a school rugby coach.
“With this system in place, we can monitor air quality and advise athletes accordingly, reducing exposure to harmful conditions that could impact their endurance and overall health.”
Beyond sports, the air quality monitoring system serves an educational purpose. Geography students, for instance, will use real-time environmental data for research and practical studies.
“Our students will have hands-on experience analyzing air quality data, which is a valuable learning opportunity,” said Dr. Mambili.
“Additionally, neighboring schools will have access to this information, allowing for broader knowledge-sharing on climate action.”
Kakamega High School has long embraced sustainability through various environmental initiatives.
The school has implemented an efficient waste management system where waste paper is collected and sold to fund school fees for students from underprivileged backgrounds.
Instead of burning waste, paper is recycled, and food scraps from the kitchen are used to feed pigs and chickens.
“We do not burn litter here,” Dr. Mambili emphasized. “We have a structured waste disposal system that minimizes environmental impact while supporting sustainability. We even use minimal chemicals for human waste management to ensure our system does not harm the environment.”
The launch of the air quality monitoring system at Kakamega High School coincides with preparations for the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace (IDSDP), which will be marked on April 6, 2025.
This year’s theme, “Leveling the Playing Field: Sport for Social Inclusion,” underscores the role of sports in fostering equitable societies while addressing global challenges such as climate change.
To commemorate this day, Kakamega High School will host a Youth Action for Sports and Environment Event on April 5, 2025.
The event, organized by Athletics Kenya in partnership with UNEP, the Kenya Mission to UNEP and UNON, and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) Africa Center, will bring together key leaders, including the Principal Secretaries for Education and Environment, as well as athletics officials.
“Sport presents a powerful platform to raise awareness and inspire action against pollution and climate change. By integrating environmental monitoring into schools and sporting activities, we are equipping young people with the knowledge and tools to drive sustainable change.” Dr. Mambili said
Studies have shown that environmental factors such as air and water pollution, extreme temperatures, and deforestation negatively impact sports performance.
Additionally, large sporting events contribute to pollution through waste generation, carbon emissions, and water resource depletion.
UNEP advocates for sustainable sporting practices, including the use of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient facilities, and responsible waste management at sporting venues.
By joining the air quality monitoring initiative, Kakamega High School is setting a precedent for other learning institutions in Kenya and beyond.
The project aligns with the school’s vision of nurturing environmentally conscious students while ensuring a safer, healthier space for education and sports.
“The environment is already under strain due to pollution and climate change,” said Dr. Mambili.
“If we don’t act now, the future will be bleak. This initiative allows us to take proactive steps, not only in reducing pollution but also in preparing our students to be future environmental champions.”
As Kakamega High School embraces this new chapter in environmental conservation, students, teachers, and the community at large remain hopeful that their efforts will contribute to a cleaner, healthier future.
