In most of the cobalt mining areas, especially in Congo,The people are working in subhuman,degrading conditions using pickaxes and shovels to dig for cobalt in this small-scale mine known as UCK Drain on the outskirts of Kolwezi in the DRC's southern copper belt, where great amounts of cobalt are mined. Although the DRC has more cobalt reserves than the rest of the planet combined, there's no such thing as a "clean" supply chain of cobalt from the country.
Narratives of Change: Cutting Across The Maasai Rangelands, Shaping the Better Tomorow
My name is Andrew Meitekini Mponin, and I am a passionate advocate for climate resilience and community empowerment, particularly among indigenous pastoralist communities in Kenya. Growing up in Narok County, I witnessed firsthand the challenges posed by climate change, especially in semi-arid regions like the Maasai rangelands. This inspired my work with the Standard Eco Watch initiative, where I help indigenous women become leaders in climate adaptation by training them in sustainable practices like rainwater harvesting and land restoration.
In addition to my environmental advocacy, I have worked as a UN volunteer, promoting vaccination campaigns, digital skills training, and youth engagement in marginalized communities. My focus on grassroots action and leadership development aims to create a future where vulnerable communities can thrive despite climate challenges. By blending local knowledge with modern solutions, I believe we can build a more resilient and sustainable tomorrow.