Honoring Teddy’s Legacy

A Journey of Healing and Environmental Stewardship

My son, Teddy, was more than just a young man with dreams—he was a beacon of hope for the environment. As an environmental champion, he led a team dedicated to greening the world, inspiring many through his passion for dance and music. His rap songs were more than just entertainment; they carried a message, urging everyone to protect the earth for ourselves and future generations.

Before his untimely passing, Teddy and his team had already planted 10,000 trees in Witu and Mpeketoni, aiming for a target of 30,000. These trees, generously donated by the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and the Kenya Forest Research Institute (KEFRI), were destined to breathe life into various police stations and 26 primary schools in the region.

The trees had been loaded during the day, meant to be planted the next morning. That night, however, tragedy struck, and Teddy was no longer with us. Despite the heartbreak, the support I received from the KFS, the local community, and the school staff was overwhelming. They gave me the strength to find closure, knowing that this act of service to the environment was part of my healing process.

After Teddy’s death, we knew we had to honor his legacy. A few months after we laid him to rest, we returned to Witu in Lamu County to complete his mission. With 17,000 seedlings still to be planted, we found ourselves back in the schools, alongside locals, teachers, students, and pupils, ready to finish what Teddy had started.

Today, as we continue this noble mission, Teddy’s legacy lives on. His spirit is always with us, guiding the team as we strive to make the world a better, greener place—just as he envisioned. Through the Dedan Kimathi Foundation, we remain committed to fulfilling Teddy’s dream, and with each tree planted, we honor the memory of an extraordinary young man whose passion for the planet will never be forgotten.

Evelyn Kimathi
CEO, Dedan Kimathi Foundation