Northern Kenya: Communities Rebuild Lives Amid Climate Crisis

The Turkana region of Northern Kenya is a stark illustration of the challenges and resilience that communities face in the wake of climate change. For years, the area has been grappling with the dual threats of drought and flooding, resulting in unpredictable weather patterns that disrupt the lives and livelihoods of the residents. Among these individuals is Sabrina, a mother of three, who has made a remarkable journey toward rebuilding her life after a devastating flood destroyed her home and vegetable garden in the Kakuma refugee camp.

A Devastating Impact

Sabrina’s story is one of survival amidst adversity. Originally from South Sudan, she sought refuge in Kakuma, where she hoped to find stability. However, her hopes were shattered when flash floods hit her camp, displacing her and countless others in the dead of night. “We were living peacefully when the floods hit. In the middle of the night, flash floods displaced us as the river broke its banks,” Sabrina recalls.

This experience is not unique; many families in Turkana have encountered similar challenges. As the climate crisis intensifies, unpredictable weather has become a daily reality, making it increasingly difficult for families to rely on traditional livelihoods, such as pastoralism and agriculture.

The Role of Humanitarian Assistance

Fortunately, Sabrina’s situation improved with the support of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). The agency provided her with a new home, enabling her to regain a sense of stability. More importantly, with assistance, Sabrina has been able to start growing vegetables again in a small garden adjacent to her new home.

Sabrina’s journey reflects a broader narrative of resilience among Turkana’s communities, who are striving to adapt to the ever-changing climate. According to Reena Ghelani, the Assistant Secretary-General and Climate Crisis Coordinator for El Niño and La Niña, “The people here have seen firsthand how the climate is changing. The rainy seasons are unpredictable, and the floods are more severe. But they are also showing incredible resilience. With the right support, they are adapting to this new reality.”

Adaptation Initiatives in Turkana

One of the most significant initiatives aimed at helping communities in Turkana and Samburu counties adapt to climate change is the USAID Nawiri program. This initiative focuses on rehabilitating rangelands and water systems to withstand extreme weather conditions. By introducing new agricultural techniques and alternative livelihoods, such as beekeeping and vegetable farming, the program aims to help families diversify their incomes and improve their resilience to future shocks.

Hellen, a mother of seven living in Northern Turkana, has witnessed firsthand the benefits of these adaptation efforts. “The heavy rains used to wash away our water pump, leaving us without water for farming or livestock. But through the Nawiri program, we rehabilitated the pump and made it climate-proof,” she explains. Her family now grows crops such as cowpeas and sweet potatoes, ensuring food security and generating income, even during dry spells.

The Urgency of Adaptation Efforts

Melaku Yirga, Mercy Corps’ Regional Director, emphasizes the urgency of adaptation efforts in light of the climate crisis. “As climate shocks increase in frequency and intensity, we can no longer wait for one emergency to end before preparing for the next. Investing in resilience now means helping people protect their livelihoods and build a more secure future,” Yirga states.

Despite these efforts, significant challenges remain. Northern Kenya’s arid and semi-arid regions contribute less than 0.1 percent of global greenhouse gas emissions yet are disproportionately affected by the climate crisis. The 2023-2024 El Niño season has already caused widespread flooding, displacing hundreds of thousands and compounding the devastation from a historic drought earlier in the year.

International Support and Climate Financing

Kenya as a whole has struggled to secure adequate international climate financing to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events. Many communities, including those in Turkana, are increasingly reliant on external support to implement climate-resilient projects and secure their futures. International agencies such as the World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Organization for Migration (IOM) are actively engaged in assisting communities adapt to climate changes.

WFP, for instance, is supporting 700,000 people through investments in solar-powered irrigation and conservation agriculture to improve food production year-round. Such initiatives aim not only to enhance food security but also to empower communities to withstand future climate shocks.

Looking Ahead: COP29 and the Call for Adaptation Finance

As global leaders prepare to meet at the 2024 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP29), there is an increasing push for a stronger focus on adaptation finance. Communities like those in Turkana are raising their voices to emphasize the urgent need for financial support to implement climate-resilient initiatives.

The narrative of resilience in Turkana, as highlighted by Sabrina and others like her, offers hope for the future. “We’ve been through so much, but we’re learning to live with the changes. We are rebuilding, and I believe we can survive,” Sabrina reflects.

This belief in survival and adaptation is crucial as communities navigate the complexities of climate change. The path to recovery may not be easy, but with continued support and innovative solutions, there is potential for transformation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the situation in Northern Kenya, particularly in the Turkana region, highlights the urgent need for comprehensive climate adaptation strategies. The resilience displayed by individuals like Sabrina, alongside community-led initiatives, showcases the strength of human spirit and the possibility of recovery amidst adversity. However, the role of international support and adequate financing cannot be overstated.

As climate shocks become more frequent and intense, it is imperative for global leaders, humanitarian organizations, and local communities to work together. The future of Northern Kenya depends on our collective ability to respond to the climate crisis, support affected populations, and build a sustainable path forward. The story of Turkana is not just about survival; it is about resilience, hope, and the unwavering determination to thrive in the face of challenges.