national NODE -
Kenya
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Introducing ECOP Kenya
ECOP Kenya Node started to self-organize in February 2023 and our aim is to promote ocean sustainability by elevating and strengthening the different viewpoints of future generations of ocean professionals through a collective voice.
Kenya has a huge coastline, however, there are scarce opportunities for ECOPs. The establishment of the ECOP Kenya node provides a networking platform for young professionals in the ocean space to network and build on their capacities and skills through platforms like seminars, webinars, conferences, and workshops in order to develop new views on Kenya’s ocean sustainability and stewardship challenges.
Goals and objectives for ECOP
- Empower the next generation of ocean leaders: ECOP Kenya Node aims to empower young people to become leaders in ocean-related fields by providing them with meaningful training, exposure skills, and scientific understanding of the ocean.
- Promote sustainable ocean practices: ECOP Kenya node is committed to promoting sustainable practices that conserve ocean and its resources. It will work towards achieving this by being practically involved in ocean activities educating communities on the importance of ocean conservation and sustainable use of its resources.
- Encourage the creation of ocean-related job opportunities: ECOP Kenya node aims to create job opportunities for young people in ocean-related fields that promote sustainable practices. It will work towards achieving this by partnering with local organizations and businesses to create job opportunities that promote sustainable use of the ocean’s resources.
- Educate and sensitize the public on issues related to climate change and ocean literacy
- Provide internship training programs focused on ocean and marine conservation, as well as climate change, designed to provide valuable insights and hands-on experience for our interns. This initiative aims to equip our interns with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these critical environmental domains.This involves a diverse set of modules featuring expert-led sessions, workshops, and field visits to engage interns in practical, real-world scenarios.
- Encourage and support innovation and innovative ideas related to ocean science and climate change. Work with ocean hub Kenya and other ocean based organizations to support ocean based ideas from members and ocean based startups
- Enhancing digital outreach and awareness, ECOP Kenya Node strives to amplify understanding of ocean sustainability through strategic engagement on social media and fostering collaborations with influencers.
ECOP Kenya Coordination Unit
Reach out to ECOP Kenya through email: kenya@ecopdecade.org
Lead coordinator
Pauline Nyambura Mwangi
Pauline Mwangi, is a graduate holding a Master of Science degree in Environmental Science from Chuka University and presently serving as an intern at the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute. Employing advanced Geographic Information System (GIS) and remote sensing techniques spanning the temporal scope of the last three decades, her research outcomes play a pivotal role in the formulation of informed regulations for coastal development initiatives and the establishment of early-warning systems associated with shoreline change and vulnerability to coastal communities. Pauline is the pioneer behind the Kenya Ocean Innovation Hub, in collaboration with the Government of Kenya and the Global Ecosystem for Ocean Visions (GEOS) with its desired objective of assessing the potential opportunities, benefits, and risks of employing ocean-based carbon dioxide removal (Ocean CDR) technologies in the Kenyan Exclusive Economic Zone.
Brian Ochieng Onyango
Brian Ochieng Onyango is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Marine Resource Management at the Technical University of Mombasa. He is attached to the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, concentrating on the ecological aspects of mangroves and seagrass. With nearly half a decade of experience, He is also a passionate photographer and visual storyteller. Through his lens, He aims to capture the beauty of marine ecosystems and share compelling narratives. He is dedicated to contributing to the sustainable management of marine resources and raising awareness through my work. Brian is the photography and videography director of ECOP Kenya, and his responsibilities include managing the photography and videography team and ensuring the quality of their work.
Secretary
Abigail Rugendo
Abigail is a dedicated professional with experience in urban planning, holding a graduate degree in the field from the University of Nairobi. Complemented by advanced professional development in Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and expertise in climate change and blue economy. She has dedicated her multifaceted professional journey to shaping sustainable and inclusive urban landscapes in Kenya with a passion for nature and biodiversity conservation, specializing in marine planning, blue economy and advocating for sustainable inclusive development approaches that integrate innovative solutions for resilient and eco-friendly urban spaces in Kenya and East Africa to be a benchmark for the Global South.
Gideon Biwot
With a Masters in Tourism Management and his current focus on the effects of climate change on marine tourism in the Western Indian Ocean for his Ph.D., Gideon is well-positioned to make meaningful contributions to the understanding of climate change impacts on this specific sector. His academic background, coupled with his passion for marine science, play a valuable role in developing strategies for sustainable tourism practices in the Western Indian Ocean region. Gideon brings a positive change in the marine tourism industry, helping to address the challenges posed by climate change along the kenyan coastline.
Mandeq Rashid
Mandeq Rashid Abdille, a Retail Logistics Consultant at WFP in Somalia, navigates harsh conditions with resilience, excelling in humanitarian efforts. With a distinguished GIS specialization from the Technical University of Kenya, she not only spearheads logistics but also leads the Mangrove Team at ECOP Kenya. Mandeq’s leadership transcends conventional boundaries; she orchestrates comprehensive mangrove conservation strategies, undertakes field surveys, and engages communities for sustainable practices. Her seamless integration of GIS expertise into these conservation endeavors stands as a testament to her innovative approach. Mandeq’s commitment to environmental causes also extends to her participation in Ocean-based Carbon Dioxide Removal (CDR) research, showcasing her multifaceted dedication toward a sustainable future for coastal ecosystems and communities.
Andrew Okitoi
Andrew Okitoi graduated from Zetech University with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. He is a full-stack web developer who mostly uses the Python programming language and its associated infrastructure to create solutions that reduce and aid in environmental conservation. He is also a database manager, system administrator, and graphics designer, building user interfaces that allow users to connect with technology more easily. He is associated with Ecop Kenya’s ICT division, assisting with the effective execution of operations requiring technology expertise and ocean ecology.
Mohabe Chacha
Mohabe Chacha, is a forward-thinking individual with a Master’s degree in Computer Science and Engineering. His professional journey commenced as a Junior Software Developer at Competa Millman LTD, where he delved into the intricacies of software development. Currently serving as the Website and ICT Executive Lead at ECOP Kenya Node, his focus has shifted towards the intersection of technology and environmental sustainability. Committed to enhancing digital outreach and awareness, ECOP Kenya Node endeavors to amplify understanding of ocean sustainability through strategic engagement on social media. In this digital age, Mohabe is passionate about leveraging technology to foster positive change.
ECOP Kenya Highlights
Africa youth Assembly (AYCA) and Africa Climate Summit
Africa youth Assembly (AYCA) and Africa Climate Summit – Read the report
Ocean Literacy
Members of ECOP jointly design and execute outreach initiatives and ocean literacy programs along the Kenyan coast in partnership with relevant organizations. The Kenya node actively engages with governmental entities, utilizing social media platforms, and conducts school and college events to promote ocean literacy. This multifaceted approach ensures a scientifically informed and widespread dissemination of knowledge about the ocean and its critical importance. Learn more.
ECOP Kenya communications
The communication framework within the ECOP Kenya node is structured to facilitate efficient dissemination of official information, while all members retain the right to share information aligned with ECOP objectives, the communication primarily addresses various topics, including ECOP activities and events, webinar planning and hosting, updates on internships, scholarships, and funding opportunities, communication pertaining to scientific symposiums, workshops, and ocean-related meetings.
Additionally, communication encompasses the exchange of reports, proposals, and concepts relevant to ECOPs, dissemination of opportunities in ocean-related fields, and strategic use of social media for advertising and highlighting ECOPs, environmental, and ocean-related activities. This communication primarily occurs through a designated Kenya node WhatsApp group and email channels, meticulously overseen by the Kenya Node Coordinator to ensure comprehensive member engagement.
