Kenya has taken a bold step in addressing the intersection of climate change and public health with the completion of its inaugural National Climate Change and Health Strategy (2024–2029). Unveiled on Monday, the strategy underscores Kenya’s unwavering commitment to mitigating climate-related health risks, adapting to emerging challenges, and fostering resilience to safeguard human well-being and sustainable development.
A Commitment to Climate Action
Kenya’s leadership in global climate action has long been recognized, notably through its instrumental role in the 77th World Health Assembly’s Resolution on Climate Change and Health. This new strategy builds on the country’s commitments at the 26th Climate Change Conference of Parties (COP26) and draws inspiration from the ongoing momentum at COP28.
As a champion of the COP26 Health Programme, Kenya joins 52 African nations in reaffirming its pledge to build climate-resilient, sustainable, and low-carbon health systems. This initiative highlights the government’s recognition that health is a human dimension of climate change, as articulated by Michelle Williams: “Health is the human face of climate change.”
Key Initiatives for a Resilient Future
The National Climate Change and Health Strategy outlines a multi-pronged approach to address climate-driven health challenges:
- Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment
By 2025, Kenya aims to complete a Climate Change and Health Vulnerability and Adaptation (V&A) Assessment. This will identify key risks and vulnerabilities, guiding policy priorities to protect communities most affected by climate change. - Health National Adaptation Plan (HNAP)
Developing the HNAP will integrate climate adaptation needs into healthcare systems, ensuring that health services remain effective and sustainable amid evolving climate conditions. - Sustainable and Green Healthcare Systems
Guidelines for environmentally sustainable healthcare systems will be established to reduce the health sector’s carbon footprint. These efforts will ensure that health infrastructure contributes to climate solutions rather than exacerbating the problem. - Capacity Building and Climate Literacy
Kenya recognizes that addressing climate change requires informed health professionals and communities. Training programs for health workers, including community health personnel, will combat climate illiteracy and enhance resilience among vulnerable populations. - Research and Policy Translation
Strengthening research-to-policy frameworks is a priority. Kenya plans to facilitate collaboration among research institutions, ensuring that findings inform actionable and evidence-based interventions. - Resource Mobilization
Implementing these initiatives requires substantial investment. The strategy emphasizes mobilizing financial resources to prioritize and achieve the outlined goals.
Global and Local Impact
Kenya’s strategy aligns with global efforts to combat climate change while addressing the unique vulnerabilities of African nations. With climate change disproportionately affecting the Global South, Kenya’s proactive approach sets an example for others. The strategy highlights the importance of investing in human development to build climate resilience and sustainable health systems.
Domestically, this initiative positions Kenya as a leader in climate action, reinforcing its status as a hub for innovation and policy-making in Africa. By integrating health into the climate agenda, the country addresses a critical nexus that impacts livelihoods, economic stability, and social equity.
A Call to Action
Kenya’s National Climate Change and Health Strategy is not just a roadmap for the next five years but a declaration of intent to lead globally in climate and health policy. It reflects an understanding that addressing climate change is not only an environmental imperative but a moral and public health obligation.
By setting ambitious goals and fostering collaboration across sectors, Kenya is paving the way for a healthier, more resilient future. As it continues to inspire global action, the country reaffirms its commitment to a sustainable world where health and climate priorities go hand in hand.
