The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry has restated its dedication to grassroots-led environmental conservation. This comes after a high-level meeting between Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Mlongo Barasa and the leadership of the Financing Locally–Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme, focusing on advancing Kenya’s climate ambitions through devolved systems.
Over 57,000 Jobs Created in Phase IFLLoCA Programme Coordinator, Mr. Peter Odhengo, reported that Phase I of the programme, implemented over four years, has created more than 57,000 jobs, including opportunities for People Living with Disabilities. He added that all participating counties have established Climate Change Units (CCUs) and coordination platforms aligned with international obligations under Article 6 and 9 of the Paris Agreement.
“FLLoCA has deployed technical support and verification protocols to promote accountability and ensure effective use of resources at the county level,” the report noted.
Praise for Policy Alignment, but Gaps Remain
Deputy Director for Climate Change Adaptation, Mr. Lerenten Lelekoit, commended the programme for supporting key national frameworks such as the Climate Change Act, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP).However, Ms. Susan Boit, National Coordinator of the 15 Billion Trees Programme, expressed concerns over delays in approvals, slow resource disbursement, and challenges in executing county-level work plans. She called for stronger coordination in seedling registration and better timing for planting cycles.
CS Urges Visibility and Carbon Market Integration
CS Dr. Barasa acknowledged FLLoCA’s role as a bottom-up climate action model and emphasized the need to increase its visibility, ensure timely delivery, and align its work with carbon markets, regional blocs, and emerging environmental policies. She recommended that FLLoCA’s achievements be showcased on Mazingira Day, with awards for the top-performing counties.
Continued Partnership and Technical Support
In a move to strengthen collaboration, FLLoCA committed to deploying a technical advisor to support the Ministry’s coordination and implementation efforts going forward.
The meeting was also attended by key officials, including Mr. Borsosio K. Abraham (County Programme Manager), Mr. Malik (National Programme Manager), and other senior representatives.
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