Profile Summary of Caleb Burudi Ambulwa
Introduction
Caleb Burudi Ambulwa stands out as a prominent figure in the global fight against climate change. As the founder and CEO of De La Calexo CBO and Group of Companies, Caleb has dedicated his entire adult life to environmental conservation. His innovative leadership and commitment to sustainability have driven impactful community programs and initiatives aimed at mitigating climate change. Caleb's vision and ability to achieve measurable results make him a revolutionary in ecosystem restoration and sustainable projects, demonstrating the significant impact one person can have on creating a greener, more sustainable world.
Early Life and Inspiration
Born in 1975 and raised in Kakamega County, Caleb developed a passion for environmental conservation early on. At Kakunga Primary School, he led community cleaning and forest conservation activities, and his concern for the declining native tree populations spurred him to establish registered nurseries to produce and donate seedlings.
Establishment of De La Calexo Africa
Caleb founded De La Calexo Africa driven by his deep-seated conviction to protect the environment for future generations. The organization has been at the forefront of climate change mitigation through innovative strategies, particularly tree-planting programs. These initiatives have not only reduced carbon emissions but also empowered communities and organizations to make positive environmental impacts.
Key Projects and Achievements
1. Police One Million Trees Initiative: Caleb's flagship project involved planting over 700,000 seedlings across various counties, including Kajiado, Kakamega, and Nairobi, demonstrating his commitment to a sustainable future.
2. Strategic Alliances: Caleb has formed significant partnerships with organizations like Mama Doing Good, Meru University, and Rotary Clubs, amplifying his environmental activities and resulting in noticeable changes in national landscapes and educational institutions.
3. Nationwide Tree-Planting Initiatives: Caleb has organized tree-planting efforts involving communities, government bodies, educational institutions, businesses, and individuals, fostering sustainable livelihoods, especially among youth and women.
4. Noteworthy Projects: Caleb has led impactful initiatives such as 'Huduma Trees in Kirimun Samburu County' and 'A Tree for Peace,' collaborating with various institutions like the Kenya Police and Kenya Defence Forces.
County-Specific Initiatives
• Kakamega County: Caleb has spearheaded large-scale tree-planting initiatives and restoration projects, collaborating with local governments, community associations, and educational institutions.
• Bungoma County: He has mobilized communities, particularly women and youth, to participate in massive tree-planting campaigns, helping the county achieve its afforestation goals.
• Trans Nzoia County: Through partnerships with churches, schools, and community organizations, Caleb has expanded tree planting and environmental education.
• Nairobi County: Caleb's urban tree nurseries and greening initiatives have transformed the urban landscape.
• Kajiado County: By establishing tree nurseries and community education programs, Caleb has empowered local women and youth organizations.
• Vihiga County: The 'A Tree for Peace' project has united communities to promote peace and environmental sustainability.
• Makueni County: Caleb's nurseries and collaborations with women's organizations have promoted sustainable farming practices.
• Machakos County: He has donated thousands of tree seedlings for tree restoration and contributed to the establishment of fruit tree plantations.
Commitment to Sustainability
Caleb's efforts align with the presidential initiative to plant 15 billion trees by 2032. He aims to contribute significantly to this goal by establishing structures, forming partnerships, and developing programs to ensure the planting of 1 billion trees by 2032.
Personal Dedication
Caleb has used his savings and resources to advance his passion for environmental preservation. His dedication has earned him respect and connections with other environmentalists, inspiring many to participate in conservation efforts.
Recognition and Future Outlook
With extensive experience in environmental leadership, Caleb is well-equipped to address critical climate change challenges. His achievements reflect his unwavering commitment to a sustainable future. Caleb's story is an inspiration, highlighting the power of individual dedication in making a positive impact on the planet for future generations.
Dr. Jonathan Mutonyi holds BSc. (in Agriculture) MSc. (in Agronomy) Ph.D. (in Agronomy), from the University of Nairobi, Kenya. He has over 20 years’ hands on experience in agricultural production systems involving small hold farmers in the sugar industry in Kenya. He is presently working as a Lecturer in the Faculty of Science, Department of Agriculture and Veterinary Sciences at Kibabii University, Bungoma. He has broad knowledge, skills and scientific orientation in agriculture application of crop and water management practices to increase crop productivity by adaptation and mitigation against climate change. He has widely traveled and gained hands-on experience in agricultural management from countries like Australia, Brazil, China, Egypt, India, Israel, Mauritius, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, United Kingdom, U.S.A, and Zimbabwe. Relevant project experience includes: • Co-investigator in research project: Optimizing Sugarcane Supply Chain Through Sustainable Bagasse Drier Solution in Sugarcane Waste Management. The African Agriculture Knowledge Transfer Partnership (AAKTP) 2023-24 R1. between Kibabii University, University of Huddersfield, UK, and Carbon Footprint Limited, Kakamega, Kenya. Project Ref. No. KTP 13713. UK Sterling Pounds 246,630 (Ksh 45 million). 2023-2025. • Co-investigator in research project: Use of Smart Technology to Predict Climate Change Effects on Terrestrial Plants Diversity and Conservation for Sustainable Livelihood in North-Rift Region, Kenya. RUFORUM-RAINCA Grant No. 109705-001/002 USD 47,000 (Ksh 7 million). 2023-2024 • Team member: Developing the business model study for the Galana-Kulalu Food Security Project (GKFP), Kenya with Dunberry Consultants in the year 2015. • Co-investigator in research project: Soil Mapping and Fertility Management for Improved Sugarcane Productivity in the Mumias sugar zone, western Kenya by KALRO-SRI funded by Mumias Sugar Company 2010-2014. • Team lead: in Sugarcane-soybean intercropping project and linkage with Kenya Agriculture Commodity Exchange (KACE-MIC) at Nzoia Sugar Company Limited in 2000-2005.
Chiyedza Heri is a Zimbabwean entrepreneur and international speaker who is passionate about health, agriculture and conservation. With a background in biomedical science she has pivoted from promoting indigenous herb in the UK, sales and policy advocacy. Chiyedza has held positions such as Vice-President of the Federation of Young Farmers Club Zimbabwe, the Horticultural Development Council and was part of the setting up of the Zimbabwe Carbon Association earlier this year where she is currently Vice-Chair. Earlier this year she founded Ubuntu Alliance, a company based in Zimbabwe. The business is on a mission to advance a resilient, equitable, and inclusive agricultural production system. Through generating data, providing testing, sharing information and investing in research and development. Chiyedza believes that together we can generate solutions to make farmers more profitable and productive without compromising on the ability of future generations to sustain themselves. Hence the name Ubuntu Alliance, bringing the spirit of community and conservation to agricultural production. Chiyedza is passionate about conservation, women empowerment, youth empowerment and has spoken at numerous conferences such as the World Forestry Congress, the Anglia Ruskin Bi-Annual Researchers Conference, Africa Climate Week on such issues. Additional facts Chiyedza is a wine, coffee, and tea enthusiast, and is WSET level 2 certified in wines. Chiyedza is also involved in research and is part of the Global Forum on Agricultural Research (GFAR).
