On 17^th September 2024, KEPSA participated in the operational planning workshop for the groundbreaking bilateral climate change project between Kenya and Germany. This initiative, titled ‘Promoting Climate Strategies and NDC Implementation at County Level in Kenya,’ is spearheaded by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) and aims to enhance climate policy frameworks at both national and county levels. KEPSA was represented by Dr. Jackson Koimbori, Senior Circular Economy and Climate Change Coordinator.

The workshop saw participation from a diverse array of stakeholders, including the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry (MoECC&F), the National Treasury and the Forestry and Land Use Climate Change Coordination Project Management Unit (FLOCCA PMU). Additionally, representatives from the Economic Planning Department, National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Ministry of Gender, National Gender and Equality Commission, and Council of Governors (CoGs) were present. This broad spectrum of participants underscored the collaborative nature of the project, highlighting the integration of various governmental and non-governmental bodies in shaping Kenya’s climate policies.

Key discussions during the workshop focused on developing cross-sectoral and gender-responsive climate policies, mobilizing and managing climate finance, and planning effective mitigation and adaptation measures. Dr. Koimbori's insights emphasized the crucial role of the private sector in fostering innovation and investment necessary for implementing these strategies. The workshop also addressed the importance of mobilizing local and international resources to support county-level climate actions, ensuring that all stakeholders are equipped to contribute effectively.

The workshop concluded with the development of a roadmap to guide future actions, including the prioritization of activities. KEPSA’s involvement, alongside other key stakeholders, reinforced the need for a collaborative approach to achieving Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). The bilateral project with Germany marks a significant step towards building a resilient and sustainable future for Kenya, with a strong emphasis on cross-sectoral cooperation and effective implementation.