Nairobi, Kenya, June 28, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) –
Waka Africa, a forward-thinking nonprofit, is making progress by addressing the two most pressing issues of our time: climate change and mental health. Led by Meshack Nzioka, a public policy expert, entrepreneur and social change activist, the organization uses innovative approaches to promote resilience and support inclusive solutions. “As a graduate in economics and statistics, I realized that climate issues need to be addressed from an economic perspective,” he explains, adding, “So for me, climate became an economic problem, not just a planetary problem.”
Waka Africa, Logo
Meshack is at the forefront of Waka Africa’s climate initiatives. “We are a solution- and development-focused organization. Our focus is on tackling climate inequality, especially among indigenous groups and local communities,” he says. This approach is currently being applied in the creation of protected areas and the implementation of climate finance practices in partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC).
The founder proudly says: “We have successfully brought two large projects on board and generated six million carbon credits in the process.” This innovative approach addresses environmental issues while promoting economic benefits for local communities. By raising awareness of carbon finance at the district level, Waka Africa ensures that climate solutions are based on grassroots participation and benefit the most vulnerable populations.
Waka Africa’s founder is aware of the huge underrepresentation of young people in mental healthcare, so he is also an advocate for mental health. “Almost everyone has mental health issues,” notes Meshack. To address this issue, Waka Africa is developing AI-powered tools to help individuals manage their mental health. These tools allow users to log their experiences and receive tailored recommendations, with the option to seek professional help if needed. This innovative approach is part of a broader effort to integrate mental health support into everyday life and make it accessible and relevant to the younger, tech-savvy generation.
Waka Africa is aware of the direct impact of climate change on mental health. Meshack cites examples from Kenya, where farmers and low-income people suffer the mental health impacts of persistent droughts and floods. This intersectionality drives the organization’s comprehensive approach, which combines climate action with mental health promotion to address both planetary and social crises. By combining mental health and climate action, Waka Africa addresses the intertwined crises affecting communities in Kenya and elsewhere.
Waka Africa’s model sets the organization apart from others. By integrating climate action and mental health advocacy, they address the intersection of these issues. The organization partners with local communities, schools, and existing NGOs to effectively implement their initiatives. Waka Africa’s lean startup model and focus on developing practical, scalable solutions ensures they stay connected to grassroots needs while influencing broader policy change.
The nonprofit’s efforts also align with global climate initiatives such as the Loss and Damage Fund’s COP28 resolution. These initiatives focus on addressing the impacts of climate change on vulnerable populations, biodiversity loss, and social hardship.
While Waka Africa is currently focused on Kenya, the organization has ambitious plans to expand across South Africa and obviously beyond. With the creation of Waka Power Labs, it is developing scalable solutions that can be replicated across Africa. These include the Waka Gram initiative, which democratizes climate finance and amplifies the voices of underserved communities, and Waka Sanity Digital, which provides fast and efficient access to mental health support. Meshack also plans to replicate these innovative solutions in other countries, facilitated by the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and partnerships with global organizations such as the Community Carbon Network.
“Think globally, act locally” is Meshack’s guiding principle. As Waka Africa continues to grow, Meshack Nzioka aims to expand its reach and increase its impact to strengthen sustainable development and resilience to climate and social crises.
Media contact
Name: Meshack Nzioka
Email: [email protected]
