By The News Booth Desk
The National Assembly Committee on Environment and Natural Resources has issued a call to action, urging the Ministry of Environment to develop comprehensive policies and programs aimed at tackling the pressing challenges posed by climate change. This call was made during an IGAD conference held in Mombasa, where stakeholders gathered to discuss climate-related issues affecting the Horn of Africa region. The committee emphasized the need for structured approaches to ensure that climate-related challenges are effectively addressed.
Call to action on climate change
Speaking at the conference, Charity Kathambi, a member of the National Assembly Committee in charge of Environment and Natural Resources, highlighted the undeniable impact of climate change on Kenya's natural resources. "Climate change is real. Our forests, rivers, and streams have dried up, making water a scarce commodity as we speak," she stated. Kathambi announced the establishment of a special fund amounting to 1 billion shillings, dedicated to facilitating tree planting initiatives across various parts of the country. This initiative aims to restore degraded landscapes and improve water availability.
Kathambi urged the Ministry of Environment to utilize the fund prudently, emphasizing the importance of conducting thorough research to identify suitable tree species for different regions. This research is crucial for ensuring the success of reforestation efforts, which are seen as a vital strategy in combating the adverse effects of climate change. The drying up of streams, rivers, and water points has been a significant concern, and the committee is keen on reversing this trend through strategic interventions.
Importance of reforestation efforts
Mohammed Elmi, the Chief Administrative Secretary in charge of Environment and Forestry, acknowledged the growing concern over climate change impacts in recent years. He noted that the government has implemented measures to address these challenges, highlighting the importance of the IGAD conference in fostering collaboration among local and international climate experts. "This conference brings together all IGAD countries in the Horn of Africa. It brings together local and international climate experts so that they can share their findings on climate matters," Elmi explained.
Role of the IGAD conference
The conference aims to chart a way forward in mitigating the expected seasonal weather effects, with resolutions expected to guide future actions. Elmi underscored the critical role of meteorology in enhancing socio-economic growth, noting that accurate weather predictions and climate data are essential for planning and development. The three-day workshop brought together delegates from IGAD countries, providing a platform for knowledge exchange and collaboration in addressing climate change challenges.
