The inaugural National Youth Climate Change Water Security and Innovative Summit, held in Kisumu County in July, marked a significant milestone in Kenya's water security and climate resilience journey.  Under the theme "Catalysing Climate Innovations for Water Security," the inaugural National Youth Climate Change Water Security and Innovative Summit brought together passionate young minds from across Kenya. This ground-breaking event saw youth WASH parliaments from Kisumu (the hosts), Narok, Kisii, Tana River, Kwale, Kakamega, Bungoma, Kajiado, Makueni, and Busia converge to tackle pressing water security issues and showcase their pioneering solutions.

Kisumu County Deputy Governor Dr Matthew Owili and Hon. Judith Oluoch, the County Executive Committee (CEC) of Water, Environment, Natural Resources & Climate Change, were the main guests. Dr. Owili applauded the youth for their relentless water advocacy efforts and made a powerful promise: the County Government is committed to improving water access. But he didn’t stop there. He called on youth, government, and communities alike to join forces. After all, when it comes to water advocacy, collective action is the name of the game.

In his remarks, KEWASNET CEO Malesi Shivaji emphasized the crucial role of the youth in the water advocacy journey, stating, "The youth are speaking, and we have no choice but to listen. The Kisumu WASH Parliament has set the bar high, and I invite all stakeholders to join hands with the youth to build full momentum and ensure the participation of everyone in this mission." He highlighted that a clearly defined pathway for youth empowerment already exists, affirming that they are not just the leaders of tomorrow, but the leaders of today.

The summit provided a unique platform for young people to present their innovative solutions to water security challenges. A total of 36 entries were submitted, showcasing a remarkable array of creativity and ingenuity. This diverse pool of submissions highlighted the potential of Kenya’s youth to address water-related issues through novel approaches and technologies. With engaging discussions, thought-provoking presentations, and dynamic speakers, the summit became a hub of knowledge exchange. The focus? Water advocacy, accountability, and justice. But most importantly, the message was clear: youth involvement isn’t just important—it’s essential.

As the summit came to a close, it wasn’t just about celebrating the end—it was about launching something new. The showcase of youth innovations was a testament to the creativity, passion, and technical brilliance of the participants. Bryon Gilo from the Kakamega Youth WASH Parliament, who presented on a solar-powered atmospheric water generator; stood out. His project didn’t just impress—it wowed. His innovation emerged as the top entry, leaving both judges and the audience impressed.

But this is only the beginning. The summit’s success has sparked a movement to make it an annual event. The energy, ideas, and commitment displayed in Kisumu are just the start. Kenya’s young water advocates are ready to lead the charge toward a future where water security isn’t just a goal—it’s a reality.