Report on the International Day for Biological Diversity (ACCOPHE Summit)

Introduction.

On 22nd May 2026, members of the Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya participated in the International Day for Biological Diversity celebrations held at Precious Blood Riruta during the ACCOPHE Summit. The event brought together participants from primary schools, secondary schools, institutions, conservation organizations, mental health advocates, and individuals from different sectors, all united by a common goal of biodiversity conservation. The event served as an important platform for awareness creation, collaboration, and knowledge sharing on environmental conservation and sustainability.

Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya continues to demonstrate that locally driven initiatives can indeed create meaningful global impact.

The day focused on several important conservation issues, including: Conservation of species and biodiversity Protection of wetlands, forests, and ecosystems Sustainable use of natural resources Community and citizen participation in conservation activities Climate action and environmental awareness Contribution of Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya:

1. Environmental Clubs and the Green a School Project Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya continues to engage young people through the Environmental Clubs’ “Green a School” project. The initiative aims at nurturing environmentally conscious students and creating young environmental stewards who understand the importance of conservation from an early age.
2. Citizen Science Activities The organization’s citizen science program aligns closely with the event theme by encouraging community participation in scientific research and environmental monitoring. Community members voluntarily take part in: Biodiversity monitoring Water quality testing Environmental awareness campaigns Conservation cycling events These activities help bridge gaps where scientific resources and laboratories may not always be accessible.
3. Support Towards the 15 Billion Tree Agenda Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya is also contributing to Kenya’s 15 Billion Tree Agenda through its established tree nursery that focuses on indigenous medicinal tree species. This initiative promotes ecosystem restoration and sustainable environmental management. Climate Change and Biodiversity Conservation Biodiversity continues to face major threats due to climate change. In response, Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya remains committed to supporting United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 13 on Climate Action through: Restoration of Ondiri Wetland Reduction of carbon emissions through peat carbon sequestration Promotion of nature-based solutions for sustainability Environmental awareness campaigns and adaptive conservation approaches The organization has continued to innovate awareness creation through activities such as: Conservation cycling Conservation concerts Conservation runs Green business expos Partnerships and Collaborations Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya continues to strengthen partnerships with organizations and institutions that share similar conservation goals. These include: Nature Kenya World Agroforestry Centre (ICRAF) Kenya Forestry Research Institute Trust for Indigenous Culture and Health Irish Embassy Embassy of Finland Through collaboration with Nature Kenya, the organization has continued to conduct birding activities that have helped identify diverse bird species within Ondiri Wetland, including migratory Palearctic birds. Collaboration with Trust for Indigenous Culture and Health has also enhanced knowledge on indigenous flora and their medicinal value.

Conclusion:

As the world continues to celebrate the month of biodiversity, the event emphasized that every conservation action has an impact, whether positive or negative. Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya continues to demonstrate that locally driven initiatives can indeed create meaningful global impact. The participation of Friends of Ondiri Wetland Kenya in the ACCOPHE Summit reaffirmed the importance of community involvement, partnerships, and sustainable action in conserving biodiversity for present and future generations.