Kakamega Governor urges National, County govts’ joint efforts to combat climate change
Kakamega Governor Fernandes Barasa has urged both the national and county governments to develop robust strategies to combat climate change, emphasizing the urgency of joint action in the face of escalating environmental challenges.
Speaking during a stakeholders’ breakfast meeting held today in Nairobi, Governor Barasa said there was need for increased funding, capacity building, and innovative approaches to address the growing threat of climate change.
The meeting also served as a launchpad for the upcoming Lake Region Climate Change and Agri-Expo, slated for October 7 to 10, 2025, at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST).
As part of preparations for the landmark event, the governor unveiled a KSh 200 million resource mobilization campaign, calling on development partners, the private sector, and civil society to support the Expo, which will be the first of its kind in the region.
The Expo will spotlight critical areas such as climate-smart agriculture, forest conservation, post-harvest management, sustainable water resource solutions, and green job creation.
A key feature of the event will be efforts toward the rehabilitation of Kakamega Forest, a vital ecosystem that requires over KSh 500 million to restore, yet has only secured KSh 29 million in funding to date.
Governor Barasa emphasized that the Expo will foster partnerships between county governments, the national government, and non-state actors, aiming to build a resilient and climate-conscious society.
The Chairperson of the Council of Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology Dr. Pamela Sitienei welcomed the initiative, describing the Expo as an opportunity to enhance awareness and education on pressing climate issues such as carbon credits, green financing, and environmental sustainability.
The Chief Guest, CS for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Dr Deborah Mulongo Baraza who was represented by Environment Secretary Dr. Sally Kimosop called on stakeholders to pull together towards a national climate change mitigation initiative and a successful western region summit.
