NAIROBI, Kenya- In a celebration of innovation and sustainability, Global Compact Network Kenya has named Yvonne Kirigo and Kevin Getobai as the 2024 Country SDG Pioneers.
Selected from over 27 nominations, these leaders are being recognized for their outstanding contributions to advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Yvonne Kirigo, Strategy and Innovation Manager at MP Shah Hospital, has earned this prestigious title for her pioneering work in green initiatives.
Under her leadership, the hospital has implemented significant projects in e-waste collection, energy efficiency, renewable energy adoption, and water efficiency.
These initiatives have notably reduced the hospital’s environmental footprint, showcasing the impact of sustainable practices in the healthcare sector.
On the agricultural front, Kevin Getobai, Project Manager at Ololo Farm, has been recognized for integrating regenerative and sustainable agriculture practices.
His innovative use of Black Soldier Flies for composting has drastically shortened the composting process from six months to just 14 days, significantly reducing CO2 emissions and producing protein from waste.
Thanks to these efforts, Ololo Farm now saves up to 47.5 tonnes of CO2 equivalence, diverts 25 tonnes of food waste from landfills, and produces 2.5 tonnes of protein annually.
“Their commitment to the Ten Principles of the UN Global Compact exemplifies the spirit of innovation and resilience needed to advance the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” said Judy Njino, Executive Director of Global Compact Network Kenya.
As national winners, Kirigo and Getobai will now compete in the global round for the title of 2024 UN Global Compact SDG Pioneer.
The global winners will be announced in September during the UN Global Compact Leaders’ Summit in New York.
The SDG Pioneers program celebrates dedicated professionals who drive and innovate solutions through new technologies, initiatives, and business models that enable progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
“We hope their work will inspire others to advance the Global Goals by implementing our Ten Principles on human rights, labor, environment, and anti-corruption,” said Sanda Ojiambo, CEO & Executive Director of the UN Global Compact.
