Quakers United for Environmental Sustainability Program

Quakers United for Environmental Sustainability Program (QUESP) is a new initiative formed by members from the Malava Yearly Meeting and led by Jairus Koki. Their mission is “To be true Stewards of God’s Creation through actions to combat climate change”. The formation of the program is inspired by concerns about the adverse effects of climate change affecting communities in Western Kenya, including changing rain patterns, failure of crops leading to increased food insecurity, and the destruction of water catchment areas.

Members of the group feel that they have a duty to combat the negative effects resulting from climate change by taking responsibility for the care of the world that God bestowed to us in Genesis as stewards. These effects have left Quaker churches, schools, and homes bare without trees and natural vegetation, even lacking shade to sit under when it is hot. Many indigenous trees that were known to provide shelter and conserve water catchment areas have either been uprooted or cut down for charcoal.

QUESP members feel obliged to be stewards of God’s creation and help restore it. Though still a new organization, they plan to realize this mission through several activities, including visiting churches (of Quakers and non-Quakers) to spread awareness on taking care of God’s creation; documenting indigenous methods of environmental conservation; undertaking tree nursery development and management training, and by supporting tree seedling plantings to restore destroyed habitats. QUESP is in the process of registration and hopes to achieve these dreams with the help of like minded friends.