Across Mombasa and the wider coastal region, community-based organizations (CBOs) are leading practical responses to climate and environmental challenges. From recycling and organic waste management to upcycling and green livelihoods, youth-led initiatives are transforming waste into opportunity while building more resilient communities.

During recent engagements with members of the Global Alliance for Communities (GAC), we had the opportunity to learn more about the innovative work being led by several local CBOs. Their initiatives demonstrate how grassroots organizations are tackling environmental challenges while creating jobs, strengthening community participation, and building local climate resilience.

Much of this work begins with a simple idea. The solutions to environmental challenges already exist within communities.

Turning Waste into Green Jobs

Several youth-led organizations are developing practical approaches that address both unemployment and environmental degradation.

Pwani Youth Network, working alongside its social enterprise Plastsafi, is engaging young people and waste pickers through its Waste to Work program. By collecting and recycling plastic waste, youth are contributing to cleaner communities while generating income and building skills within the circular economy.

Thy Great Achievers, based in Kisauni, trains youth and young mothers to collect, sort, and upcycle plastics, glass, and sacks into reusable products. Through hands-on training and entrepreneurship support, participants are gaining sustainable livelihoods while reducing pollution in their neighborhoods.

Local Solutions for Waste and Energy

For many communities, waste management is closely connected to energy access and environmental protection.

Kijiweni Uplift Youth is addressing this challenge through an eco-friendly briquette initiative that converts waste materials into affordable alternative fuel. The program not only reduces waste and pressure on forests but also creates income opportunities for community members. Alongside this work, the organization supports youth skills development and mentorship programs that strengthen long-term economic resilience.

Suluhisho Youth and Elderly Empowerment is focusing on organic waste management while fostering collaboration between generations. By engaging both youth and elders in environmental initiatives and community projects, the organization combines traditional knowledge with new approaches to sustainability.

Strengthening Climate Resilience at the Community Level

Across these initiatives, a shared theme emerges. Climate resilience is not only about large-scale infrastructure or policy changes. It also depends on empowering communities with the skills, tools, and opportunities to respond to environmental challenges locally.

Plastic recycling, waste collection, community clean-ups, upcycling training, and waste-to-energy solutions are all part of how these organizations are building models that are both environmentally sustainable and economically empowering. 

Their work demonstrates how grassroots leadership can turn everyday challenges into pathways for innovation, livelihoods, and stronger communities.

Emerging Voices Across the Coastal Region

Beyond these initiatives, other members across the coastal region are also contributing to community resilience and empowerment.

Mapenzi Charity, based in Kilifi, works to support vulnerable populations including young mothers, orphans, and children through programs that promote education, wellbeing, and community inclusion.

Timiza Youth Initiative is advancing youth empowerment and climate resilience in Kilifi through grassroots programs that strengthen participation, gender equality, and sustainable community development.

Light Groove is engaging young people in green initiatives that transform waste into opportunities for environmental action and youth leadership.

Mudzini Cultural Centre, based in Kilifi, equips young people with creative media skills such as photography and digital content production, helping them turn talent into opportunity and income.