As world leaders gathered for  the UN Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen,  Denmark last year  to discuss  reduction in  emission of green house gases, CMS Africa led the pack by planting 3,000 trees.

True to God’s call to ‘equip the local Church for local and global mission,’ the project   flagged-off  in  Ogenya Parish in the Anglican Diocese of South Nyanza.  The relationship between CMS Africa and the diocese  started earlier  in May  that year, when a regional youth training dubbed, ‘Youth for Work’ was conducted.

Five months later, the  diocese confirmed  that youth in 26 parishes started small seed projects and wanted CMS Africa their mentor, to commission them.

“I am glad CMS is back with an African outfit,” said Bishop James Ochiel as he bent to plant a tree in his Rongo Parish. “Most of you remember CMS, which planted the Anglican Church in Africa. They are here to see what we have done, and are willing to support us.” He added.

The tree-planting  and other projects were commissioned at Ogenya, Rongo, Central Cathedral, and Makongeni parishes by CMS Africa's head of Leadership Formation and Youth Programmes Beatrice Wanjohi. “I am glad the training which focused on equipping the youth with skills to engage in socio-economic activities, already met its objectives.” She said.

According to Beatrice, the diocese is a good place  for  'real mission and transformation.'

Eunice Adhiambo Akoko is a youth leader in one of the parishes. As she ushers guests to her local church in Ogenya, she says, “I felt more courageous after the training; I can now preach, teach, and was able to mobilize fellow youth to start small projects. We make about 1,000 shillings a day. Other than conserving the environment,  youth in her parish also bought a Piano-Key-Board  for their local church using the proceeds they made.  They plan to register their group with the government. Other diocesan youth make income from sale of natural fruit juices, vegetables, and Mandazi - a local version of cake.

The encounter with CMS Africa left many youth re-thinking their strategies towards business and environment.  As they plan to plant trees in their own homes , they  hope to tap from a local diocesan micro-finance scheme  and  CMS Africa’s  willingness to ‘walk with them'

The church in Africa on the contrary still faces many  challenges;  Mentorship is critical - yet is the greatest ingredient for success still  lacking. The Diocese of South Nyanza for instance is yet to find  a youth mentor - a person well trained and equipped with the wholistic message. CMS Africa’s future is  therefore to  equip such personnel to become  torch-bearers for Christ in the mission field.