Groupe Utalii Kwetu GUK nonprofit has celebrated World Environment Day with the Grand Finale of the second edition of Utalii Kwetu Program. GUK nonoprofit was the co-organizer of the Congo Basin Conclave and member of the Congo Basin Leaders’ Initiative.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) boasts some of the most remarkable natural wonders on Earth. From the dense rainforests of the Congo Basin to the majestic Virunga Mountains, the country is a treasure trove of biodiversity. However, ensuring the long-term health of these ecosystems requires dedicated efforts.
This is where the innovative Programme Utalii Kwetu (Tourism At Home) steps in. Launched by the Groupe Utalii Kwetu (GUK), a Congolese initiative for sustainable tourism and conservation, Utalii Kwetu is a unique educational program designed to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards in the DRC.
Educating Through Engagement
Utalii Kwetu targets students, fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment from a young age. The program utilizes a variety of engaging tools to captivate students' interest. Instead of dry lectures, Utalii Kwetu employs:
- Interactive manuals: Filled with captivating visuals and clear explanations, these manuals introduce students to the wonders of ecotourism and the importance of sustainable practices.
- Pictures and Comics: Engaging visuals bring the natural world to life, allowing students to connect with the beauty and fragility of the ecosystems around them.
- Cutting-edge Technology: Utalii Kwetu is at the forefront of educational innovation by incorporating VR (Virtual Reality) and AR (Augmented Reality) technology. Imagine students virtually exploring the rainforest canopy or encountering majestic wildlife – this technology fosters a powerful connection with the natural world.
Building a Sustainable Future
By igniting a passion for the environment in young minds, Utalii Kwetu aims to create a generation that understands the value of conserving the Congo Basin's extraordinary ecosystems. These students will become the future leaders,policymakers, and responsible tourists who will play a crucial role in safeguarding the DRC's natural heritage.
A Collaborative Effort
The Utalii Kwetu program is a shining example of successful collaboration. GUK, with partial funding from the United States Department of State, works alongside Kwafrika Travel, a travel company dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism in the DRC. This combined effort ensures the program's reach and effectiveness.
Utalii Kwetu program is a yearly rendez-vous aiming to win the minds of the next generation of Congolese leaders by raising their environment awareness. This second edition has got the participation of 4 schools of Goma city namely: CS LA JOIE, EP MORIA, EP KESHENI and EP KESHERO. After four rounds of eliminations, 8 students made it to the final. In front of a panel of judges, the finalists have used various kind of performances (songs, play, handcrafts, drawings) to draw the attention of the audience on issues related to biodiversity conservation and environmental protection. Since 2021, Groupe Utalii Kwetu has worked with more than 10 000 kids scattered 30 schools of Goma City and Nyiragongo territory to support environmental awareness of the next generation of Congolese leaders.
Since 2021, Utalii Kwetu Group has worked with over 10,000 children across 30 schools in the city of Goma and the Nyiragongo territory to support environmental awareness among the next generation of Congolese leaders.
Based on one of the resolutions of the Congo Basin Conclave, the Utalii Kwetu program support environmental awareness from a very young age to make sure we win the minds of the next generation of leaders in the Congo Basin. The one who should do things differently and protect some of the World most precious ecosystem.
The Utalii Kwetu program offers a beacon of hope for the future of the Congo Basin. By empowering young minds, it paves the way for a more sustainable future where tourism and conservation go hand in hand.