ABOUT US
Mount Elgon Conservation and Heritage Initiative (MECHI)
The Mount Elgon Conservation and Heritage Initiative (MECHI) is a purpose-driven not-for-profit organization registered as company Limited by guarantee. MECHI seeks to address the pressing impacts of climate change on the Mount Elgon ecosystem. Our programs are guided by a strategic five-year plan (2025–2029), which outlines actionable objectives to restore degraded ecosystems, empower local communities, and enhance environmental sustainability. MECHI envisions becoming a beacon of conservation excellence in Kenya and beyond, transforming the Mount Elgon region into a model of resilience and ecological balance.
Our work stands as a testament to what can be achieved through collaboration, innovation, and unwavering commitment to the environment. With a holistic approach and a focus on sustainability, MECHI is driving meaningful change for the communities and ecosystems that depend on Mount Elgon namely Bungoma, Tranzs-Nzoia, Turkana, West Pokot, Busia , Siaya ,Kakamega and Vihiga
Our Motto
“Restoring Nature, Empowering Communities, Transforming Futures.”
Our Mission
To restore, conserve, and sustainably manage the Mount Elgon ecosystem while addressing the challenges of climate change through community involvement, innovative interventions, and impactful partnerships.
Our Vision
To restore, conserve, and sustainably manage the Mount Elgon ecosystem while addressing the challenges of climate change through community involvement, innovative interventions, and impactful partnerships.
Mechi Programming Methodology
1. Sustainability
Ensuring our actions benefit the environment and communities for generations to come.
2. Community Empowerment
Involving and uplifting local communities in every step of our conservation journey
3. Collaboration
Building strong partnerships with stakeholders, governments, and organizations to achieve impactful change.
4. Integrity
Acting with transparency, accountability, and respect in all our endeavors.
5. Innovation
Embracing creative and practical solutions to address the challenges of climate change and ecosystem restoration.
6. Heritage Preservation
Safeguarding the cultural and natural heritage of Mount Elgon and its surrounding areas.
Mr. Silvanus J. Odede
Founder & Chairman
He is an experienced Community Development practitioner and mobilizer with a strong background in capacity building, organizational development, and grassroots empowerment. With extensive experience working with communities across diverse sectors, he has played a key role in facilitating participatory development processes, strengthening local governance structures, and promoting sustainable community initiatives.
He previously served as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SHEDI-Kenya, a non-governmental organization focused on social and human development in Kenya. In this leadership role, he oversaw program implementation, strategic partnerships, and institutional growth, while championing community-driven approaches to development.
His career reflects a deep commitment to people-centered development, stakeholder engagement, and long-term impact through training, mentorship, and inclusive program design.