Climate change is a global phenomenon with local consequences, and it casts a formidable shadow over Kenya. The country is particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change due to its reliance on rain-fed agriculture, which is the backbone of its economy. Climate change has led to frequent droughts, unpredictable floods, and extreme weather events in most parts, which have had a significant impact on the country’s food security.

The World Bank echoes the urgency of addressing this issue, underscoring that without prompt adaptation measures, Kenya could face substantial real GDP losses of up to 7% from the baseline by 2050, disproportionately affecting the most vulnerable segments of the population. However, Kenya is not merely a passive victim of climate change; it has taken several steps to address these challenges and turn them into opportunities through strategic and innovative initiatives.

Initiatives and Transformative Endeavors

One of the recent transformative measures is the introduction of a national tree planting day by the Kenyan government on November 13 in a bid to tackle the climate crisis and deforestation. In 2022 alone, Kenya lost 6.29 kilohectares of natural forest, equivalent to 3.29 metric tons of CO2. The continued deforestation without corresponding afforestation and reforestation would further increase Kenya’s vulnerability to climate change. The first national tree planting day took place on November 13, 2023, when Kenyans were asked to plant seedlings provided free by the government. The initiative aims to see 15 billion trees planted by the year 2032.

Another pivotal effort in Kenya’s climate resilience arsenal is the Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project. With the strong backing of a $250 million loan from the World Bank, this initiative sets its sights on selected counties, aiming to bolster agricultural productivity and enhance resilience to climate change risks. This strategic endeavor held the promise of benefiting over 1.7 million people.

Another transformative project is the Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project, which is aimed at providing electricity access to about 1.3 million people in marginalized areas of the country. The project is backed by a $150 million World Bank loan. The country also launched a 5-year, $34 million project under the Green Climate Fund (GCF) to help reduce the cost of climate change.

This project, titled ‘TWENDE’ (Towards Ending Drought Emergencies), is an environment-based adaptation project to be implemented in the country’s arid and semi-arid areas. This ecosystem-based adaptation project is set to rejuvenate over 500,000 hectares of degraded rangelands, offering relief to 620,000 people across 11 vulnerable counties: Garissa, Isiolo, Marsabit, Tana River, Kajiado, Samburu, Makueni, Kitui, Meru, Tharaka
Nithi and Taita Taveta.

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To gain deeper insights into these initiatives, LIDA Network spoke with Dr. Alice Mwangi, a climate scientist. She emphasized that “these projects represent not only a response to immediate challenges but a visionary approach to building climate resilience. They demonstrate
Kenya’s commitment to sustainable development in the face of a changing climate.”

• Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project

The Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Project unfolds as a beacon of hope amidst climatic uncertainty. With climate-resilient farming practices at its core, this project aims to empower local communities in selected vulnerable counties. These practices include precision agriculture, agroforestry, and efficient water management. By integrating modern technologies with traditional wisdom, the project seeks to future-proof Kenya’s agricultural landscape against the perils of climate change.

• Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project

The Kenya Off-Grid Solar Access Project charts a new course in Kenya’s pursuit of sustainable energy solutions. With a focus on marginalized counties, the project leverages solar energy to illuminate homes, power businesses, and uplift communities. This transformative initiative not only addresses energy poverty but also aligns with Kenya’s commitment to a low-carbon future.

In LIDA Networks’ conversations with beneficiaries of off-grid solar solutions, a common
sentiment echoed the transformative power of light. Mary Wanjiku, a resident of one of the
marginalized counties say, “Access to electricity has changed everything. It’s not just about
lighting our homes; it’s about having the power to build a better future for our children.”

Challenges and Imperatives

Despite these transformative strides, Kenya confronts several challenges in its quest for climate justice. The need for increased investment in renewable energy infrastructure, enhanced water management strategies, and the promotion of sustainable land use practices emerge as imperatives on this rocky journey. Additionally, there’s a pressing need to fortify institutional and policy frameworks to ensure that climate change considerations are seamlessly integrated across all sectors of the economy.

Expert views

To gain a comprehensive understanding of these challenges and potential solutions, LIDA Network spoke with Dr. Samuel Kibicho, an environmental policy expert. Kibicho says, “Kenya’s commitment to climate resilience is commendable. To build on this momentum, we must intensify efforts toward renewable energy deployment, adopt innovative water management strategies, and foster sustainable land practices. Furthermore, policy frameworks need continuous enhancement to effectively tackle climate change at its roots.”

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Kenya’s journey towards climate justice unfolds as an intricate tale of challenges, innovations, and community-driven transformations. The initiatives undertaken, from climate-smart agriculture to off-grid solar access and ecosystem-based adaptation, showcase the country’s determination to not only combat climate change but also pioneer sustainable development. However, the road ahead is challenging, requiring sustained efforts, innovation, and collaboration among all stakeholders.