Nigel Waweru is among the speakers who will address delegates at the Africa Climate Summit running from Monday, September 4, to Wednesday, September 6.
Waweru, who is ten years old, is an environmentalist determined to sensitize the public on proper disposal of plastic wastes.
Further, he uses his skills to turn discarded plastic waste into stunning works of art that highlights the dangers of improper disposal of plastic waste.
The department of Environment and Climate Change included Nigel as one of the speakers in the climate Africa Climate Summit due to his achievements in advocating for environmental conservation.
Further, Nigel’s first presentation will be during the pre-summit and at the official opening of the summit.
Over 30, 000 delegates, including several heads of state, are expected to attend the summit.
The Birth of a Passion
Waweru’s passion for environmental conservation began at the age of six when he saw filth coming out from clogged drains in an estate where he lived in Nakuru.
In an interview with Nation , Waweru said the plumbers from around the estate told him that the waste ending in Lake Nakuru is very harmful to marine life.
Further, Waweru explained that this made him join the plumbers and rubbish collectors in collecting trash from the area during weekends.
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Art from Waste
Waweru revealed the idea to use plastic waste to pass information came into his mind as he was collecting garbage in Pipeline, Nakuru County.
“One day, while I was collecting garbage, I had an idea; to use plastic bottle to caps to put messages on boxes to discourage improper disposal of waste,” he told NTV.
Waweru uses discarded plastic bottles, containers, and other plastic waste items to create beautiful art.
In the process, he uses a combination of cutting, melting, and sculpting techniques to reinvent these materials.
However, what stands out is his ability to see freshness and beauty in what most people consider filth.
Nigel Waweru Recognition
Waweru’s efforts to educate people on the dangers of improper disposal of used plastic bottles had made him make headlines in different forums.
In August 2023, Waweru was crowned Little Environment Kenya in an event held at Weston Hotel.
The theme of the event was “Beat Plastic Pollution” and Waweru beat 30 other children to win the top spot.
In May 2023, Waweru was appointed by the Ministry Environment, Climate Change and Forestry as its young ambassador.
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Educations & Sports
Nigel Waweru is a grade four pupil at the Shah Lalji Academy in Nakuru County.
Also, he is a taekwondo yellow and green belt holder.
In April 2023, Nigel Waweru was among other youngsters selected to represent Kenya in the world taekwondo championship in Thailand.
In a TV interview, Waweru said he developed interest in taekwondo in 2022 when he noticed he can use the art for self-defense.
In 2022, Waweru won second place in the taekwondo competitions held in Eldoret.
