By Paul Kimanzi

In the heart of Africa, nestled between stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures, Kenya is emerging as a shining example in the global fight against climate change. With the inaugural Africa Climate Summit (ACS) held in Nairobi from September 4-6, 2023, policymakers, visionaries and leaders from various sectors convened to address the urgent need for climate action.

Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is at our doorstep, demanding our immediate attention and action. While nations and organizations worldwide are taking steps to mitigate the crisis, the challenge is too vast and complex for any single entity to tackle alone. This is where the concept of collective responsibility comes into play.

The ACS exemplifies the spirit of collective responsibility as evidenced by the delegates and speakers who came from all corners of the continent including the United States and Europe. Their shared commitment and determination send a powerful message: We are all in this together.

One of the standout stars at the Africa Climate Summit was Kenya, a nation that has shown remarkable dedication to sustainability. Kenya's journey towards a greener future is both inspiring and practical.

Kenya boasts an impressive 79 per cent of its energy generated from green sources. This includes geothermal, hydropower, wind, and solar energy. Kenya's impressive commitment to sustainability and its ambitious targets, such as transitioning to fully green energy sources by 2030, make it a standout beacon for the world. KenGen, as a leader in renewable energy, is at the forefront of this transition.

KenGen's approach includes harnessing the power of Kenya's abundant renewable energy, particularly geothermal. Additionally, hydro, wind farms and solar installations are on the rise, contributing to the green energy mix.

In line with global trends, Kenya is making strides in adopting electric vehicles (EVs). This not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also demonstrates a commitment to innovative and eco-friendly transportation solutions.

The adoption of EVs is not limited to personal vehicles; it extends to public transportation as well. Electric buses are becoming more common on Kenyan roads, providing a cleaner and quieter mode of transportation for commuters.

Recognizing the importance of trees in mitigating climate change, Kenya has made significant efforts to grow and protect its forests. Tree planting initiatives have been launched across the country, reinforcing Kenya's dedication to restoring the environment. KenGen has made huge strides in greening the country.

While Kenya's government and organizations like KenGen are setting impressive examples, the fight against climate change is not solely their responsibility. Each one of us has a role to play in this collective effort.

Simple changes in our daily lives, like reducing waste, reusing items, and recycling, can significantly reduce our carbon footprint. Supporting local recycling initiatives and reducing single-use plastics are impactful steps anyone can take.

Being mindful of our energy consumption and opting for energy-efficient appliances can make a substantial difference. Simple actions like turning off lights when not in use, sealing drafts in your home, and using programmable thermostats can lower energy bills and reduce emissions.

Consider carpooling, biking, or using public transport to reduce emissions from personal vehicles. In the developed world, bike-sharing programs and efficient public transit systems are gaining popularity, providing eco-friendly alternatives to driving.

Small actions like installing solar panels at home or supporting green energy initiatives in your community can help a lot in reducing emissions. Many governments across the globe offer incentives and subsidies for renewable energy installations, making them more accessible to homeowners.

Let us not forget that we are all stakeholders in this critical mission. By making conscious choices in our daily lives and supporting policies and initiatives that promote sustainability, we can contribute to the global effort to combat climate change.

Ends