Jackson Raini: A man dedicated to conserving the environment

When it comes to matters environmental conservation and sustainability in Nakuru, one name stands out; that of Jackson Raini.

A man that has passionately dedicated his life to preserving nature and promoting sustainability, while inspiring others through his impactful work. 

Mr Raini says it all started in Langata where he grew up and at an early age, he started to appreciate nature.

“I remember the good old days when I would go to Ngong’ Forest and Nairobi National Park just to watch birds and look at the frogs. This gave me a sense of fulfilment,” he begins on the phone interview.

Soon after, Raini joined the Wildlife Club of Kenya as a volunteer and created networks.

It was in the 90s while at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) offices, where he met Wangari Mathai and drew inspiration from the Green Belt Movement. 

At the University of Nairobi, he studied Environmental Science and upon completion got a job with World Wildlife fund who mentored him to become the scientist he is today. 

“I am mostly concerned with the sustainable management of Lake ecosystems and their basins as well as the impact of pollution. Lakes are water sources and they also provide a broad range of ecosystem services including resource provision services and climate moderation just to mention a few,” he says. 

The scientist highlights some of the successes he has achieved including leading conversation efforts in eastern Mau and also formulating the integrated lake basin management, a platform aimed at capacity building and strengthening institutions in addressing matters pollution and also participating in the making of laws such as the Nakuru Solid Waste Management act, Nakuru County Climate Change Act and Climate Resilient Strategy. 

“I have received the prestigious Ibaraki Kasumigaura award, an international award. This was for my distinguished work in the preservation of lakes and lake ecosystems. I have also been to several countries where I was able to interact with people and share ideas on matters conversation,” he says. 

His thoughts on climate change, “If we do not put sufficient measures then the temperatures are likely to rise and we are likely to see more of these climate related disasters like flooding, heat waves and drought.”

He concludes by saying that all hope is not lost though, as humanity can make the difference now in conserving the environment through planting trees and avoiding pollution.

“As a country there is too much talk and not enough implementation of the actions plans and set laws therefore, we should implement the set policies ad laws,” he says.