WYNA INTERN IRENE GITAU JOINS THE MARUGE CENTER IN NDEIYA, NACHU IN CELEBRATING CULTURE, PEACE, AND BIODIVERSITY:

On 10th February 2026, the Maruge Center in Ndeiya, Nachu, was filled with cultural expression, meaningful dialogue, and community celebration during the 2nd Cultural & Biodiversity Peace Event organized by Youth Action for Rural Development (YARD). Among the participants was WYNA Programme Intern, Irene Gitau, who joined community members, elders, youth, and partner organizations in advancing conversations around culture, peace, dignity, and environmental conservation.

The event was designed to celebrate cultural heritage while promoting unity and biodiversity conservation under the broader vision of culture that upholds human dignity and environmental sustainability. It brought together community elders, cultural leaders, youth, children, residents, and representatives from organizations including PELUM Kenya and the GLS Foundation.

Throughout the day, participants explored how positive cultural practices can coexist harmoniously with biodiversity. Conversations emphasized that culture is dynamic and should evolve in ways that reject harmful practices while preserving identity, heritage, and community values. The discussions highlighted the deep connection between traditional knowledge systems and environmental stewardship, demonstrating that many indigenous practices support sustainable land use and conservation when practiced responsibly.

The event featured rich cultural performances that brought this message to life. Traditional songs, dances, and attire were proudly showcased, celebrating identity and history in a way that resonated deeply with the audience. A particularly moving moment was the performance by a Kikuyu women’s group, whose traditional songs symbolized continuity, pride, and the strength of cultural heritage. These performances were more than artistic expressions; they

‍“Seeing women and young people engaged from the very start, leading discussions, performing, and contributing ideas was a lifetime memory created in my mind. It’s a reminder that culture and biodiversity flourish not through token participation, but through genuine, inclusive involvement where every voice has influence and value, if given the opportunity and I would be glad to organize these and more in my community as well” Irene shared.

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A significant component of the gathering was the peace and unity dialogue between the Maasai and Kikuyu communities. Through open conversations and shared reflections, participants emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence, mutual respect, and collaboration across cultural lines. The event demonstrated how culture can serve not as a source of division, but as a powerful bridge for peacebuilding and reconciliation.

Environmental conservation remained central to the discussions. Educational sessions focused on protecting ecosystems and wildlife while maintaining cultural traditions that respect nature. Participants reflected on how biodiversity conservation can be strengthened when rooted in cultural values that honor land, water, and natural resources. The importance of traditional food systems was also highlighted, reminding attendees that indigenous diets are often sustainable, nutritious, and deeply connected to cultural identity.

Youth engagement stood out as a defining feature of the event. Young people were encouraged to take leadership roles in cultural preservation, environmental protection, and community peace initiatives. Their active involvement underscored the understanding that sustainable change depends on empowering the next generation to carry forward both tradition and innovation. For WYNA intern Irene Gitau, the experience reinforced the critical role that youth play in shaping inclusive, resilient, and environmentally conscious communities.

The outcomes of the event were evident in the increased awareness about preserving culture without harmful practices and the strengthened understanding of the links between culture, peace, and biodiversity. Community members left with a renewed appreciation for inclusive dialogue and a deeper commitment to ensuring that cultural preservation goes hand in hand with environmental responsibility.

The 2nd Cultural & Biodiversity Peace Event was more than a celebration of heritage; it was a call to action. By promoting culture rooted in dignity, unity, and environmental stewardship, the event strengthened community bonds and laid a foundation for future initiatives that integrate cultural identity with biodiversity conservation. Through the participation of interns like Irene Gitau, WYNA continues to amplify youth leadership in advancing sustainable agrifood systems and community-driven solutions that honor both people and the planet.

Special thanks to PELUM Kenya for availing our WYNA programme intern Irene and other youth such exposure and learning Opportunities

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