Introducing our newest Krystle Kabare Scholar for 2024: Ambrose Muthama Wambua. Ambrose will pursue a Master of Science in Climate Change at the University of Nairobi. We interviewed Ambrose about his interests in his degree and his aspirations.
Why are you interested in pursuing Climate Change?
I have a deep-rooted interest in addressing Climate Change because of its direct impact on communities, economies, and ecosystems, particularly in Kenya. Growing up, I witnessed firsthand the adverse effects of prolonged droughts on agriculture and the livelihoods of farmers in my community. These experiences instilled in me a desire to understand the science behind climate phenomena and to work towards mitigating their effects.
Climate Change poses significant risks to achieving sustainable development, and addressing it is integral to the success of several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 13: Climate Action. Climate-related issues such as extreme weather events, floods, and food insecurity threaten the progress made in reducing poverty (SDG 1) and hunger (SDG 2). By studying for an MSc in Climate Change, I aim to contribute to the global effort to make informed, data-driven decisions that will promote environmental sustainability and help build resilience in vulnerable communities. Through the Development Pathways Krystle Kabare scholarship program, I seek to empower myself with the knowledge that will enable me to advocate for sustainable practices and policies in Kenya and beyond.
What are your goals and aspirations that you can work on through the scholarship?
The Krystle Kabare Scholarship presents an invaluable opportunity for me to further my academic and professional goals. One of my key aspirations is to contribute to the development of sustainable environmental policies that address the unique climate challenges Kenya faces and more so the impacts of climate change to vulnerable communities such as people with disability, children, women, and Indigenous communities among others. I intend to focus on research that informs adaptation strategies for climate-vulnerable communities, particularly those in arid and semi-arid areas. This aligns with my passion for environmental preservation and my commitment to achieving the objectives of SDG 13.
I hope to collaborate with local and international stakeholders to create awareness around climate resilience and sustainability. I plan to participate in community-based initiatives that not only educate people about the importance of sustainable practices but also provide practical solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change. My long-term vision is to work with policymakers, government, Climate change Movements, Non-Governmental organizations(NGOs) and organizations to integrate climate change considerations into national development plans and strategies, helping Kenya move toward a greener, more sustainable future.
The scholarship will allow me to gain the necessary expertise, connect with thought leaders in the field, and implement actionable solutions to climate challenges, fulfilling both my personal and professional aspirations.
About the Krystle Kabare Scholarship
Launched in 2019, the Krystle Kabare Scholarship commemorates the life and work of Krystle Kabare, a cherished Social Policy Specialist at Development Pathways. Krystle was deeply dedicated to improving the lives of society’s most vulnerable individuals and fervently advocated for the rights of people with disabilities.