During field work in Kenya, we had the pleasure of meeting Joseph Lesorogol and learning about a successful youth led climate action project – Samburu Youths Basket.
Samburu County is on the frontlines of the climate crisis, where recurring droughts and rapid desertification are putting immense pressure on traditional ways of life. For many pastoralist communities, livelihoods are becoming increasingly unsustainable. At the same time, young people face high levels of unemployment, and women, who carry much of the daily workload, often have limited access to financial resources and decision-making power.
In response to these challenges, Joseph, a representative of Samburu Youth Baskets, has been leading a project, that is a powerful example of youth-led climate action to address a community challenge.
Samburu Youth Baskets equips young people and women with the skills and tools needed for climate-smart agriculture, helping to restore degraded land while creating sustainable, locally driven livelihoods. It was founded on the belief that Morans, the warrior-age youth of the Samburu community, can play a transformative role in this transition. By shifting from vulnerable pastoralist systems to regenerative agricultural practices, they are becoming leaders in building climate resilience.
At its heart is a bold vision: a thriving Samburu County where arid landscapes are regenerated, young people lead innovation, women achieve economic independence, benefits ripple across entire communities, and communities take ownership of their future.
The project is proudly youth-led and women-centred. Working in partnership with Zuhura Impact, the initiative is developing a model that can be replicated in other arid regions.