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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.
