Kenya now eyes the continental leadership role in sustainable development by scaling up usage of low carbon transportation systems and practicing smart agriculture.
Addressing during the opening of the IGAD Climate Prediction and Application Centre (ICPAC) in Kajiado County, President Uhuru Kenyatta said the country had made tremendous progress in green energy utilization.
“We are also committed to be leaders in achieving a circular economy, through efficient waste management systems and sustainable production methods. Significantly, we seek accelerated recovery through green industries and jobs, with institutions such as IGAD.”
In a recorded video address, the President noted Kenya’s course in supporting other Horn of Africa nations to develop their renewable energy capacities.
“I am pleased to note that the centre has over the years, enabled the Horn of Africa to grow a cadre of climate scientists; and created strong networks with other regional and international organizations, to provide evidence-based approaches towards the empowerment of vulnerable populations in our region,” the President said.
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President Kenyatta hailed the new facility as a giant step in the fight against climate change in the region pointing out that the centre will harness innovative technologies and knowledge to advance climate related work.
“Indeed, the establishment of this Inter-Governmental Authority on Development (IGAD) and the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre has been a response to the recurring droughts and other natural disasters in our region.”
The Head of State lauded the country’s continued investments in renewable energy which had earned Kenya global recognition amid its ongoing partnerships with stakeholders such as IGAD in the promotion of green industries.
On his part, Environment and Forestry CS Keriako Tobiko acknowledged Kenya’s key economic drivers saying they were vulnerable to climate change.
CS Tobiko cheered ICPAC’s achievements for aiding Kenya and other IGAD member states to submit better Nationally Determined Contribution (NDCs) through an efficient electronic system.
