Dear Friend,

I hope you are doing well and thriving in this busy city of Nairobi. Hopefully, capitalism hasn’t taken too much of a toll on you. Have you had a moment to sit down and unwind amidst the fast pace this city sets? Who am I kidding with this question?  Oh, before I forget—I read both the books you sent me, and can I just say how visionary you are? I especially loved the first one because you highlight your childhood in it, and you know how I am with anything nostalgic. Keep going, and don’t hesitate to send me more of your work. I’ll be your free proofreader—until, of course, you officially publish and become a bestseller. Then, you’ll have to pay me something!

I spoke to my mom the other day, and she inquired about your family back home. Of course, I didn’t have an answer, but I’m hoping you’ll let me know how they’re doing so I can inform her.

As for me, I am very well. Life has been kind. Dandora is still Dandora—or maybe not exactly the same because, remember that piece of land we were claiming? We finally reclaimed all of it! I’ll find pictures and send them to you. And while we’re on this, our Go Green Laudato Club is thriving. We’re all learning on the job—both in leadership and climate action—but the experience is amazing. We’ve made great connections in the environmental conservation space, and our parishes are supporting the cause. All I can say is, great things are yet to come. That’s what happens when your team is aligned, shares the same vision, and has great mentors.

I know climate action doesn’t really appeal to you, but since when have I ever only talked about things you like? Haha.

Last time we met for coffee, we talked about the countries we’ve visited. Other than the Pride of Africa, I’ve only been to the Pearl of Africa, so you did most of the talking. I remember you praised Rwanda for being spotlessly clean, and in the next minute, you said—and I quote— “All this climate change awareness, advocacy, activism, or action should stop. The West should just allow developing countries to pollute as much as they did by mining and using fossil fuels. Once we’re developed, then we can all start using clean or renewable energy.”

My response was, “Right, you do have a point—but tell that to the capsizing islands in developing nations.” And this is one of the reasons I like you—you challenge me.

Now, you’re probably wondering if I wrote to give you a climate change awareness lecture. Well, yes. And today, I come prepared with a full thesis to support my stance, because I can’t risk my very good friend actually believing that developing countries should be allowed to pollute just because they are developing. So, let’s do some damage control:

• Developing Countries Suffer the Most – While wealthier nations have more resources to adapt, poorer countries face extreme weather events, food insecurity, and displacement. Droughts, floods, and hurricanes are becoming more frequent, destroying agriculture and infrastructure.
• Economic Growth Doesn’t Have to Mean Pollution – Countries like Kenya, Morocco, and Rwanda are proving that clean energy (solar, wind, hydro) can drive economic progress without excessive pollution. Investing in renewables creates jobs, attracts international funding, and reduces reliance on expensive fossil fuels.
• Delaying Action Will Cost More in the Long Run – The longer we wait, the more expensive and difficult it becomes to adapt. Climate disasters are already causing billions in damage annually. Proactive investment in green energy and climate resilience is far cheaper than rebuilding after disasters.

I rest my case—for now. But don’t think I won’t bring this up again over our next coffee!

Take care and write back soon.

Yours, Hidaya