Charlene Ruto unveils team to fight hunger and climate change

First Daughter Charlene Ruto. (Courtesy)

First Daughter Charlene Ruto has unveiled 82 ambassadors to spearhead efforts against hunger and climate change through her organisation, the SMACHS Foundation.

The ambassadors, aged 18 to 32, are expected to champion climate-smart agriculture and mobilise their peers to embrace farming and combat climate change under her envisioned strategy, “The 30 Things”.

Speaking at the launch ceremony held at the Kenya Institute of Special Education (KISE) in Nairobi, Ms Charlene Ruto, Founder and Patron of the SMACHS Foundation, emphasised the critical role of young people in addressing today’s challenges.

Late night preparations underway as we put the finishing touches on the Smachs County Youth Ambassadors onboarding program. This week has been incredibly impactful, filled with valuable insights. Stay tuned for tommorrows exciting conclusion. pic.twitter.com/tjB7XVDsox — SMACHS Foundation (@smachs_org) November 28, 2024

“Young people are not merely victims of climate change and food insecurity—they are innovators, entrepreneurs, and agents of change. Through their creativity, leadership, and skills, they have the power to transform food production and drive climate action for a sustainable future,” she said.

The selection process attracted over 1,600 applicants, with 82 chosen for their leadership potential, passion for agriculture and climate action, problem-solving abilities, and innovative thinking.

Although the programme aimed to recruit 94 ambassadors—10 per county—some counties had fewer applicants, while Lamu County had none.