I hosted the Live On the Frontlines climate film screening event

Change
Planet
Posted 2 October, 2024

Credit: Derrick Wachaya

Organised in response to recurring climate-related disasters affecting the globe, the Live On The Frontlines event aimed to shed light on the lives impacted by these issues and explore sustainable solutions through a blend of film screenings, panel discussions, and community engagement.

Kenya’s Kisumu city, situated on the shores of Lake Victoria, is no stranger to the harsh impacts of climate change.

The region’s vulnerability to flooding, particularly in the Nyando Basin, has caused untold devastation over the years. Floodwaters have displaced communities, submerged farmlands, and disrupted livelihoods. With global temperatures rising, the frequency and intensity of these floods are expected to worsen, leaving local populations in a constant state of uncertainty, states the UN OCHA.

The Live On The Frontlines (LOTFL) event, organised by Re-Earth Initiative with the collaboration of both Be The You Foundation and Kisumu Environmental Champions community based organisations, created a platform for open dialogue.

This empowered the community to discuss how to cope with climate disasters and strategize on relevant sustainable solutions for catastrophes as well as showcase documented films of those living through the impacts of climate change. It was a privilege to host the event.

Film as a tool for climate awareness

At the heart of the event were powerful films that explored the devastating impacts of climate change on communities. Some provided an intimate look into the lives of families struggling to survive in flood-prone areas. The documentaries captured the human cost of climate change; a reminder that while global climate talks continue, people around the world are already facing harsh consequences.

Other films emphasised the need for urgent action and climate resilience efforts, showcasing grassroots initiatives aimed at empowering communities. They served as a catalyst for reflection and discussion, setting the tone for deeper conversations on mitigation at a local level.

One of the key elements of the event was the panel discussions, which brought together diverse voices from different sectors to talk about climate change and the way forward. The panelists included government officials, flood victims, filmmakers, and other key stakeholders who each shared their experiences and insights.

Innovations for climate resilience

Youth innovators presented cutting-edge solutions aimed at reducing the impact of floods on agricultural lands, such as flood-resistant crops and low-cost water drainage systems. These innovations, while still in the early stages, offer hope for a future where communities can adapt to the changing climate without losing their livelihoods.

The role of young people in climate action using technology and social media can be leveraged to spread awareness and inspire action. In a continent where climate change affects young people disproportionately, it is essential to equip the next generation with the tools and resources to fight back against the climate crisis.

Youth-led initiatives, such as community tree-planting programs and clean-up drives, were highlighted as practical steps young people are taking to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Kisumu County’s First Lady, Her Excellency Mrs. Dorothy Nyong’o delivered impassioned remarks, urging the attendees to take action in their respective capacities. She praised the collaborative spirit of the youths – particularly those that leverage technology to bring about sustainable change.

‘The fight against climate change is a fight for our survival,’ she stated. ‘We must work together as the government, private sector, community leaders and youths if we are to build a sustainable and resilient future.’Again, it was an absolute pleasure to be in the room with so many dedicated people of all demographics. The Lives On The Frontlines event was every bit the hub for collaboration, innovation, and grassroots action I had hoped it would be.

Hopefully other nations can inspire through similar events.

Derrick Wachaya

Contributing Writer Nairobi, Kenya

I’m Derrick (He/Him), a Journalism and Mass Communication graduate from the Technical University of Mombasa, Kenya. Currently I write about trending topics and major issues affecting Africa for Thred, specifically concerning SDGs. View my Twitter here if you’d like to send me feedback.

More from thred.

Scientists fear that carbon sinks are failing

Credit: Pexels

Planet

Scientists fear that carbon sinks are failing

Together, the planet’s oceans, forests, and soils absorb about half of all human emissions. As the Earth heats up, many are concerned that this crucial natural process – which regulates temperatures – is breaking down. The planet’s oceans, forests, and soils play a critical role in the survival of humanity, acting as natural shields that safeguard us from our own inherently destructive impact on the environment. Hugely effective agents in easing...

By Sofia Phillips London, UK

A look at the Haitian mass deportation crisis

Credit: Richard Pierrin AFP

People

A look at the Haitian mass deportation crisis

In recent months, the Dominican Republic has ramped up its deportation campaign targeting Haitian immigrants, with plans to expel 10,000 each week. Why? As Haiti remains engulfed in widespread gang violence and political instability, returning to their home country could lead to dire consequences, especially for vulnerable groups such as women and children. Despite international outcry, the Dominican government is pressing ahead with its policy, further intensifying an already critical humanitarian...

By Derrick Wachaya Nairobi, Kenya

Investing in women’s health could save the UK economy £11bn each year

Credit: Thred

People

Investing in women’s health could save the UK economy £11bn each year

A new report conducted in the UK estimates that the national government loses more than £10 billion annually due to women missing work because of unresolved health issues. It’s an unfortunate truth that women’s health has been overlooked for centuries, leaving major gaps in our medical understanding about the different illnesses and diseases that affect us. In most parts of the world, this lax attitude towards women’s health continues today. Women’s...

By Jessica Byrne London, UK

Climate change will make this species more vulnerable to ship collisions

Credit: Unsplash

People

Climate change will make this species more vulnerable to ship collisions

A new study suggests that endangered whale sharks will soon abandon their normal habitats due to rapidly warming oceans. This change will place them on directly in line with major shipping routes. The climate crisis is having a profound impact on our planet and all living beings on it, including marine animals. As global ocean temperatures rise, biologists and marine scientists are noticing a series of changes taking place. Coral reefs...

By Jessica Byrne London, UK