Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Initiatives in Kenya

Jul 16, 2024

Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation Initiatives in Kenya

Introduction

  • Global Warming & Climate Change: Increased levels of greenhouse gases are a major cause.
  • GEF Small Grants Program (SGP): Supports projects addressing climate change mitigation (reducing/avoiding emissions) and adaptation (helping communities cope with climate impacts).

Projects in Kenya

Biogas Digesters

  • Institutions Involved: UPS Central Community Development, Kenya National Federation of Agricultural Producers (KENFAP), and others.
  • Benefits: Reduced reliance on firewood, healthier indoor environments, increased tree planting leading to more rainfall and purified atmosphere.
  • Example Achievements: 55 biogas plants constructed through UNDP's management.

Solar Lighting Units

  • Community Involvement:
    • World Concern: Trained Maasai grandmothers in India to install/repair solar lighting.
    • Youth Banner: Supported young women in Kilifi County to install solar units as income activities.
    • Manoa- Pastoralist Integrated Development Org: Installed solar-powered pump in Laikipia County for water supply.
    • Sagurra Gilani: Supplied solar lamps and supported rainwater harvesting/conservation agriculture.
  • Benefits: Provided clean energy solutions and improved community living standards.

Conservation and Livelihood Projects

  • Integrative Projects: Combined conservation for natural resources, energy, and water conservation.
  • Example - Segurra Location:
    • Supported by UNDP funding.
    • Components: Natural resources conservation, energy conservation, water conservation.
    • Example Implementation: Demonstration plots for agriculture in schools and community areas.

Additional Solar Installations

  • Carroll County: Solar panels installed at local primary school, dispensary, and churches by Wagone CBO.
  • Tharaka-Nithi County: Promoted greenhouse technologies, drip irrigation, giant bamboo production by grassroots organizations.

Conclusion

  • Multiple initiatives supported by GEF SGP and managed by UNDP are contributing significantly to climate change mitigation and adaptation in Kenya.
  • Focus on renewable energy sources, conservation projects, and community empowerment.

Key Takeaway: Emphasizes the integrated approach of using both mitigation and adaptation strategies to combat and adjust to climate change impacts.