Karatina University has taken a bold step in advancing Africa’s climate agenda by successfully hosting the Certificate in Leadership for Climate Restoration (CLCR), an executive programme designed to cultivate a new generation of leaders equipped to champion climate restoration across the continent. The programme, held from 20th to 24th July 2026, was organized through the University’s Directorate of Resource Mobilization in partnership with the Africa Leadership Transformation (ALT) Foundation, the Foundation for Climate Restoration (F4CR), KCB Foundation, Equity Group Foundation, and other strategic partners. The week-long programme brought together policymakers, researchers, climate champions, development practitioners, journalists, academics, and professionals from diverse sectors across Kenya, the United States, Zambia, Uganda, and other regions to explore innovative approaches to restoring the Earth’s climate systems.
The training was officially opened by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Planning, Finance and Administration), Prof. Richard Kiai, on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Linus M. Gitonga. In his opening remarks, Prof. Kiai welcomed participants to what he described as a landmark programme, noting that the University was proud to host the first cohort of Climate Restoration Leaders. He emphasized that the initiative reflects Karatina University’s commitment to forging strategic partnerships that address pressing global challenges through research, innovation, and leadership development.
He further lauded the Africa Leadership Transformation (ALT) Foundation for its visionary support in sponsoring the programme and facilitating the participation of internationally renowned experts. He noted the partnership between Karatina University, ALT Foundation, and the Foundation for Climate Restoration demonstrates the power of collaborative action in addressing one of humanity’s greatest challenges.
Throughout the week, participants explored the science and practice of climate restoration, shifting the conversation beyond climate adaptation and mitigation towards restoring the Earth’s climate systems. The programme emphasized that while considerable efforts have been made to address climate change, greater urgency is required to restore ecological balance and secure a sustainable future for generations to come.
Dr. Daniel Kamanga, Founder and CEO Africa Leadership Transformation (ALT) Foundation addressing the audience.
Speaking during the training, Dr. Daniel Kamanga of the Africa Leadership Transformation Foundation underscored the urgency of accelerating climate restoration efforts, observing that although significant progress has been made in climate action, much more remains to be done. He challenged participants to embrace a different conversation one centered on restoration rather than merely managing climate change and encouraged them to become transformational leaders capable of inspiring change within their institutions, communities, and countries.
Among the facilitators was Carole Douglis, an acclaimed environmental journalist, author, and climate advocate, who challenged participants to rethink climate action through the lens of restoration. Her sessions underscored the importance of effective communication, visionary leadership, and collaboration in mobilizing societies towards lasting environmental change.
Carole Douglis addressing the audience during the second day of the training.
The executive programme featured interactive sessions covering climate restoration science, leadership, integrity, climate policy, strategic communication, and the activation of individual spheres of influence. The participants were equipped with practical leadership tools to influence policy, strengthen institutional capacity, mobilize communities, and promote innovative approaches to environmental restoration. A dedicated Training of Trainers (ToT) sessions further prepared participants to cascade the knowledge and facilitate future climate restoration programmes within their organizations.
Recognizing the critical role of communication in advancing climate action, the final day featured specialized media training that equipped journalists and communication professionals with skills in climate restoration storytelling, interviewing, and amplifying the voices of climate restoration leaders.
The programme culminated in a certificate award ceremony, recognizing participants for successfully completing the executive course and committing to champion climate restoration initiatives across Africa.
In a significant milestone, Karatina University is set to establish the Karatina University Climate Restoration Centre of Excellence, a pioneering initiative that will serve as a hub for research, capacity building, policy engagement, innovation, and partnerships in climate restoration. The Centre is expected to position the University as a regional leader in advancing climate restoration knowledge and solutions while supporting national, regional, and global sustainability efforts.
A section of the participants during the training keenly following through.
Through strategic partnerships and transformative programmes such as the Certificate in Leadership for Climate Restoration, Karatina University continues to reaffirm its commitment to inspiring innovation and leadership while nurturing transformational leaders capable of driving meaningful environmental, social, and economic change. The University remains dedicated to supporting solutions that not only respond to the climate crisis but actively restore ecosystems and create a more sustainable future for Kenya, Africa, and the world.
The participants pose for a group photo during the Executive Certificate in Leadership for Climate Restoration training.