Kenya’s Green Leadership: Shaping Africa’s Climate Future

Macroeconomic Impacts of Climate Change

Kenya’s economy—heavily reliant on climate-sensitive sectors, namely agriculture, tourism, and energy—faces significant risks from the escalating impacts of climate change. Agriculture, which contributes 22 percent of GDP, employs over 40 percent of the population, and accounts for more than 65 percent of exports, is particularly vulnerable.⁶ Droughts, erratic rainfall, and rising temperatures disrupt crop yields, livestock farming, and fisheries, leading to contractions in agricultural productivity and GDP.⁷ For instance, the agriculture sector contracted by 1.6 percent in 2022 due to prolonged droughts, slowing overall economic growth. Similarly, climate change threatens tourism, which comprised 10.4 percent of GDP in 2022, by disrupting ecosystems critical to wildlife migration and degrading biodiversity-dependent destinations like the Maasai Mara and Mount Kenya.⁸ In the energy sector, reliance on hydropower, which accounts for one-third of electricity generation, is increasingly undermined by reduced rainfall and extreme weather events, compounding Kenya’s energy vulnerabilities and reliance on costly fossil fuels.⁹

The macroeconomic consequences of these sectoral vulnerabilities are profound. Kenya’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions estimates annual socioeconomic losses of 3 to 5 percent of GDP between 2010 and 2020 due to climate-related events, while floods and droughts create long-term fiscal liabilities equivalent to 2 to 2.8 percent of GDP annually.¹⁰ These shocks strain Kenya’s fiscal space, making it harder to finance climate adaptation measures and protect poor populations. Climate change also exacerbates trade imbalances by increasing reliance on food imports during periods of domestic crop failure, exposing the economy to global food price volatility and inflation. In the first quarter of 2023 alone, Kenya’s food import bill rose by 58 percent, driven by prolonged drought and high international wheat and edible oil prices.¹¹ Damage to infrastructure from extreme weather events further heightens these risks, affecting trade, transportation, and port operations, and increasing the cost of doing business. Without strategic climate adaptation and resilience measures, Kenya’s macroeconomic stability, food security, and poverty reduction efforts remain highly vulnerable to the growing impacts of climate change.

Flipping the Narrative: Creating Opportunities in Climate Crisis

Kenya has chosen to see the climate crisis not just as a challenge, but as a unique opportunity to drive transformative growth and sustainable development. Despite its vulnerabilities as one of the most climate-affected nations globally, Kenya has embraced an optimistic and solutions-oriented approach. Persistent droughts, floods, and erratic weather patterns threaten its largely rain-fed agricultural economy and tourism, yet the country is leveraging these challenges to accelerate its transition to a green economy, foster resilience, and become a leader in climate action. This strategic mindset underscores Kenya’s belief that sustainable solutions can simultaneously mitigate climate risks and unlock economic opportunities.

Central to Kenya’s strategy is its commitment to renewable energy, where it leads Africa with over 92 percent of its electricity generated from renewable sources like geothermal, hydro, wind, and solar power.¹² Kenya aims to achieve 100 percent renewable energy by 2030 and expand its energy grid capacity to 100 gigawatts (GW) by 2040.¹³ This focus on clean energy not only reduces carbon emissions but also drives green industrialization, enabling Kenya to position itself as a regional hub for clean technology and value-added industries. Programs such as the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action initiative, which channels resources into community-level projects in agriculture, water management, and natural resource conservation, highlight Kenya’s innovative approach to building resilience while empowering local economies.¹⁴

Kenya’s leadership extends to global climate governance, showcasing its determination to shape the future of climate action. Hosting the Africa Climate Summit in 2023 and spearheading the Nairobi Declaration, Kenya has emphasized the potential for green growth to deliver both environmental and economic benefits. By advocating for market-based solutions such as carbon credits, renewable energy investments, and debt-for-nature swaps, Kenya is drawing international financing and partnerships to fuel its ambitions. President Ruto’s call to “see in green growth not just a climate imperative, but a fountain of multibillion-dollar economic opportunities” reflects the country’s visionary approach to leveraging the climate crisis as a catalyst for innovation, sustainable development, and global leadership.

Pioneering Solutions: Kenya’s Climate Policies and Their Replicability in Africa

Discussions with respondents and experts illuminated the transformative role of Kenya’s climate policies and their potential replicability across Africa. County leaders, practitioners, and climate experts consistently pointed to Kenya’s Climate Change Act of 2016¹⁵ as a game-changer in the country’s climate strategy. “This act empowered us at the county level,” noted a respondent from subnational government, “allowing counties like Narok and Makueni to tailor policies and plans to address local climate vulnerabilities.”¹⁶ This decentralization has enabled counties to secure funding, such as from the World Bank, and implement adaptation measures that resonate with the needs of their communities. Stakeholders working at the subnational level pointed out that this model could inspire other African nations to adopt localized approaches.

The County Climate Change Fund (CCCF) mechanism was celebrated as a best practice by many of the respondents.¹⁷ “Through this fund, counties have the resources to act on the climate ambition,” explained a member of a county steering committee. Counties like Isiolo have used the CCCF to develop ward-level action plans that reflect the realities on the ground. “These plans aren’t just top-down directives,” one ward committee representative said, “but real solutions informed by the communities themselves.”¹⁸

Community-based interventions were another highlight. “Sand dams have been revolutionary in arid and semiarid regions,” said a county official from Makueni. These low-cost structures, designed to capture and store water in dry riverbeds, provide consistent access to water for farming and daily needs, especially in semiarid areas. “What makes them powerful is their simplicity—they are easy to replicate and directly involve the communities they serve,” he added. Similarly, the empowerment of Community Forest Associations was heralded as a blueprint for integrating local populations into environmental management while ensuring sustainable resource use.

Kenya’s strides in renewable energy were described as nothing short of transformative. “We are leading the continent with over 90 percent of our electricity grid powered by green energy,” noted one energy sector advocate.¹⁹ With projects like the Olkaria Geothermal Plant and the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project, Kenya has demonstrated the potential of large-scale investments in clean energy. “Our Last Mile Connectivity Project is a model that could improve energy access across Africa,” he added, emphasizing how renewable energy can drive both economic and climate resilience.

Kenya’s institutional innovations also drew praise. “Our multisectoral steering committees ensure that all players—like the Kenya Forest Service, National Environment Management Authority, and the Meteorological Department—are working together,” a government official explained.²⁰ These committees, combined with grassroots mechanisms like Ward Climate Change Planning Committees, are empowering local stakeholders to conduct vulnerability assessments and shape actionable climate responses.

At the national level, the Climate Change (Amendment) Act of 2023 and the Carbon Markets Regulation of 2024 were highlighted as groundbreaking.²¹ “We’ve set the stage for carbon trading in Africa,” remarked a private sector expert influencer, pointing to these frameworks as aligning Kenya with international commitments while fostering economic opportunities.²² Still, respondents urged greater global recognition of Kenya’s leadership. “Our successes need to be shared more widely on international platforms,” one sustainability practitioner said, “so the world can see what’s possible when innovation and community-driven action come together.”²³

Kenya’s public-private partnerships (PPPs) were described as a critical enabler of climate innovation. “The Lake Turkana Wind Power Project is a perfect example of how the private sector can lead large-scale renewable energy development,” said a multinational bank respondent.²⁴ Similarly, projects like pay-as-you-go solar systems are thriving thanks to minimal regulatory interference, allowing grassroots innovations to flourish. Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) solar businesses provide household-scale solar energy with a payment scheme tailored to the budgets of bottom-of-the-pyramid customers, allowing poor households to pay for solar products in small increments, usually per month.

Education and awareness campaigns also received significant attention. “We’ve seen schools and communities rally behind tree-planting drives through initiatives like Eco-Challenge Kenya,” noted an environmental activist.²⁵ These campaigns not only bolster conservation but also embed a culture of climate responsibility in future generations. Other grassroots programs, such as early childhood development centers promoting knowledge and growing of drought-resistant crops, were highlighted for their dual impact on food security and economic resilience.

The overarching message from stakeholders was clear: Kenya’s approach—rooted in strong legislative frameworks, community empowerment, and innovative partnerships—offers a replicable model for other nations. “What we’re doing here isn’t just about Kenya,” a private sector respondent concluded. “It’s about showing Africa, and the world, how we can tackle climate challenges together.”²⁶

Policy Conflict

Kenya has also faced its fair share of public policy conflicts relating to the nexus between the environment and climate change on one side, and development on the other. The country has an ambitious goal to develop its energy sector, and one promising energy source is coal. In 2015, a coal plant development project was started, only to be halted by the National Environment Tribunal four years later over land compensation issues.²⁷ This issue was raised at the local-government level by the members of the assembly after public outcry, and the environmental and social impact assessment report presented to the assembly was rejected. In this case, it was observed that proper public participation was not conducted, and residents would lose their land to the development. The project was expected to inject 1,050 megawatts of thermal power into the national grid for $2 billion. Beyond the conflict for land compensation, the project was also to be developed in a coastal town that is a recognized UNESCO world heritage site. The project is still a subject of discussion and awaiting resolution. 

Related conflicts have been seen on community land, especially in rangelands, due to the privatization of these lands by investors, and poor benefit-sharing mechanisms established with residents.²⁸ This is especially apparent during harsh climate extremes such as drought, when rangeland residents demand access to private conservancies for pastures. Over time, such conflicts have been resolved through mutual local and national agreements on resource and benefit-sharing agreements and gazette policies.²⁹ Closely related is the Kenyan flower industry, one of the largest in the world, which has
been criticized for poor labor and environmental standards.³⁰ Over the years, the country has started shaping the industry by developing agreements on the use of chemicals that impact the health of residents as well as strong measures on polluter-pay-principal. This is one of the principles that guide courts in enforcing the right to a clean and healthy environment in section 3.5(e) of the Environmental Management and Conservation Act No. 8 of 1999.³¹

Navigating Challenges: Addressing Barriers to Kenya’s Climate Strategy Implementation

Stakeholders across Kenya consistently emphasized that while the country has made significant strides in climate action, substantial barriers continue to hinder the effective implementation of its ambitious strategies. Funding gaps emerged as a recurring theme, with many respondents pointing out that subnational governments allocate less than 2 percent of their budgets to climate-related activities—a figure that falls far short of what is required to address the scale of existing challenges. “Without sufficient resources, even the most well-intentioned plans remain just that—plans,” one county official observed.³²

Another critical obstacle identified was policy misalignment between national and county governments. Participants described instances where national directives failed to resonate with local priorities, leading to fragmented and inefficient execution. An environmental officer lamented, “We often find ourselves duplicating efforts because of a lack of clarity on how national policies should cascade down to the counties.”³³

Capacity gaps were also highlighted as a significant barrier, particularly at the county and grassroots levels. Many regions lack adequately trained personnel, such as dedicated energy officers, to implement policies effectively. “There’s a huge knowledge deficit when it comes to understanding international climate frameworks and how to localize them,” explained an officer from Narok County.³⁴ This limitation not only undermines informed decisionmaking but also reduces the efficacy of interventions designed to address climate vulnerabilities.

Political interference was another recurring theme. Efforts to establish Ward Climate Change Planning Committees, for example, were sometimes derailed by members of county assemblies (MCAs) who sought to influence the selection of committee members for political gain. “Climate action shouldn’t be politicized,” one subnational level stakeholder argued. “But during election cycles, we see projects delayed or altered to align with political agendas.”³⁵

The slow adoption of climate-resilient technologies, particularly in ASALs, was repeatedly noted. Stakeholders observed that the high cost of improved cooking devices, methane-reduction measures, and other technologies, coupled with limited community awareness, hindered widespread uptake. “If we could make these solutions more accessible and demystify the technical jargon, we’d see better adoption rates,” said a representative working on clean energy solutions.³⁶

Participants also highlighted challenges in monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems. Fragmented reporting, double counting of achievements by different agencies, and insufficient follow-up on interventions—such as tree-planting campaigns—were identified as barriers to achieving long-term impact. “We need harmonized M&E practices and regular monitoring to sustain the impact of our initiatives,” remarked a county officer respondent.³⁷

Land-use conflicts were another key challenge, particularly in balancing the competing demands of agriculture, urban development, and conservation. One official noted, “Every sector wants a piece of the same land, and without integrated planning, these conflicts will only grow.”³⁸ These challenges are compounded by erratic weather patterns, which stakeholders said often led to crop failures and water shortages, further complicating adaptation efforts.

Despite these barriers, respondents were optimistic about solutions. They advocated for stronger national and international partnerships to mobilize climate finance, build local capacity, and transfer technology. Programs like the Green Climate Fund and initiatives supported by the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and UK Aid Direct were seen as critical avenues for funding and technical assistance. “With the right support, we can scale our efforts and make a real impact,” said one county official.³⁹

Community engagement also emerged as a priority. Respondents emphasized the need to simplify technical concepts, use local communication channels such as radio in native languages, and enhance public participation. “People need to see how these policies benefit them directly,” an NGO representative explained. “When communities are involved, they become invested in the success of these initiatives.”⁴⁰

Stakeholders further stressed the importance of addressing political resistance and ensuring that climate action is insulated from short-term political agendas. Strengthening governance frameworks, streamlining legal processes, and fostering robust collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and the private sector were identified as critical steps.

Ultimately, while challenges persist, Kenya’s stakeholders remain committed to overcoming these barriers. As a participant from the East Africa Community (EAC) concluded, “Kenya has the frameworks, the knowledge, and the willpower. What we need now is the sustained support—both financial and technical—to translate these into tangible, scalable solutions that benefit every community.”⁴¹

Regional Leadership: Kenya’s Role in Shaping Climate Policy Across Africa and Beyond

Kenya has firmly positioned itself as a leader in regional climate governance, leveraging its innovative approaches to address transboundary challenges and influence global climate discussions. Stakeholders emphasized Kenya’s pivotal role within the East African Community, particularly through its leadership in crafting the EAC Climate Change Policy. This framework fosters collaboration on shared environmental challenges, such as water resource management and biodiversity conservation, and exemplifies Kenya’s commitment to collective regional resilience.

One notable success cited by participants is Kenya’s ability to integrate community-driven solutions into regional and global frameworks. In Makueni County, sand conservation projects have not only addressed local water scarcity but have also drawn pastoralists from neighboring Tanzania in search of pasture. These initiatives highlight Kenya’s capacity for natural resource management and underscore its broader commitment to scalable climate adaptation strategies. As one county respondent remarked, “Kenya’s grassroots innovations, like sand dams, provide a blueprint for addressing shared climate vulnerabilities across Africa.”⁴²

Globally, Kenya’s advocacy for equitable climate finance and its leadership during the Africa Climate Summit in 2023 were praised as significant milestones. Stakeholders highlighted President Ruto’s vocal push for reforming international financial systems to reduce reliance on conditional aid and promote intra-African trade. This vision aligns with regional initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area, underscoring Kenya’s dual focus on addressing global disparities while fostering regional self-reliance. “Kenya’s proactive stance on climate justice is setting a powerful precedent for the Global South,” noted a respondent from the EAC.⁴³

At the community level, Kenya has demonstrated the power of inclusive participation. Stakeholders pointed to the success of conservancies in the Maasai Mara region, where structured grazing and land consolidation practices have sustained 84 percent of the area’s wildlife, compared to only 16 percent in government-protected reserves, as indicated by one respondent from the region. By empowering approximately 17,000 landowners in the region through policies like grazing management plans and benefit-sharing agreements, Kenya has showcased a replicable model for balancing conservation with livelihoods. As a conservancy manager observed, “The Maasai Mara’s approach to land use offers practical lessons for nations struggling with land subdivision and overgrazing.”⁴⁴

Kenya’s influence also extends to knowledge sharing and capacity building. Hosting regional workshops and forums has allowed Kenya to disseminate best practices, from community-led forest restoration to ecosystem management plans. These efforts, supported by partnerships with international sponsors, have not only strengthened EAC member states but also elevated Kenya’s role as a hub for climate innovation. “Kenya’s ability to connect local expertise with global platforms ensures that African solutions are part of the global climate conversation,” a participant highlighted.⁴⁵

Kenya’s leadership in renewable energy further cements its role as a regional exemplar. Stakeholders consistently pointed to the geothermal energy sector, which contributes 43 percent of Kenya’s electricity energy grid, as a benchmark for East African nations like Ethiopia and Tanzania.⁴⁶ Investments through entities like the Geothermal Development Company have enabled knowledge transfer across bordering countries, thereby promoting regional collaboration in harnessing the Rift Valley’s geothermal potential, especially in Eastern Africa. Kenya’s near-universal electricity access, driven by solar, wind, and geothermal energy, exemplifies the transformative potential of renewable investments. “Kenya is proving that renewable energy can power economic growth while addressing climate goals,” noted an EAC respondent.⁴⁷

Despite Kenya’s achievements, stakeholders acknowledged areas for improvement. The country’s carbon credit system was identified as a promising but underutilized tool, with challenges around quantification and fair compensation. Participants stressed the need for simplified frameworks and capacity building at the community level to enhance accessibility and effectiveness. Additionally, stakeholders called for greater visibility of Kenya’s successes on the global stage, advocating for centralized platforms to share case studies and lessons learned.

Kenya’s ability to align local knowledge with global frameworks positions it as a model for African nations seeking to advance climate action. From its grassroots initiatives to its advocacy for global equity, Kenya’s leadership reflects a comprehensive approach to climate governance. As a private sector stakeholder aptly summarized, “Kenya’s vision isn’t just about leading the region—it’s about shaping a resilient, sustainable future for the entire continent.”⁴⁸

Collaborative Action: Cross-Sector and Community-Level Integration

Kenya’s climate strategy is distinguished by its ability to integrate cross-sector collaboration and grassroots-level inclusion, creating a cohesive framework that bridges national goals with community needs. Stakeholders emphasized the success of initiatives like the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA), which seamlessly combines input from multiple sectors, such as water, energy, and agriculture. For instance, FLLoCA-supported projects often incorporate solar-powered draw-off systems for dams, merging renewable energy with climate adaptation to enhance resource sustainability. As one subnational government official noted, “Kenya’s capacity to align sectoral goals is a critical factor in its climate resilience.”⁴⁹

At the local level, inclusivity stands out as a core principle of Kenya’s approach. Ward Climate Change Planning Committees, established in line with Kenya’s gender inclusion standards, were repeatedly praised for ensuring that women, youth, and marginalized groups play an active role in climate governance. These committees not only empower underrepresented voices but also inform tailored adaptation strategies through community-led vulnerability assessments. “By involving everyone, from community leaders to smallholder farmers, Kenya ensures that no one is left behind in its climate journey,” a community practitioner observed.⁵⁰

Collaboration extends beyond government structures to partnerships with civil society and the private sector. Community Forest Associations, often supported by NGOs, have spearheaded grassroots initiatives such as tree nurseries, reforestation projects, and kitchen gardening. These activities not only advance environmental sustainability but also enhance livelihoods, demonstrating how multistakeholder cooperation drives impactful outcomes. A community practitioner reflected, “These grassroots actions showcase the power of local ownership in tackling climate challenges.”⁵¹

Partnerships with entities like the Kenya Wildlife Service have strengthened these efforts, providing legal recognition for conservancies as protected areas. “The Mara conservancies demonstrate how conservation and economic benefits can go hand in hand,” a respondent noted.⁵²

Stakeholders also emphasized the critical role of multiagency coordination structures in driving cross-sector climate action. At the county level, steering committees bring together agencies like the National Environment Management Authority, the Kenya Forest Service, and the Kenya Meteorological Department to align efforts across sectors. These structures ensure that climate strategies are not only cohesive but also effectively address interconnected challenges. A participant explained, “The alignment of national agencies at the county level is key to ensuring the success of Kenya’s climate policies.”⁵³

Grassroots engagement remains central to Kenya’s climate strategy. Programs facilitated by organizations like the Kenya Climate Innovation Centre (KCIC) have empowered communities to commercialize climate technologies, transforming grassroots innovations into scalable enterprises. Examples include community-driven clean energy solutions, such as briquettes and biogas systems, which reduce reliance on traditional fuels while creating economic opportunities (a briquette is a compressed block of coal dust or other biomass material used as fuel or kindling). “These initiatives highlight how innovation at the local level can support both environmental and economic goals,” remarked the energy expert stakeholder.⁵⁴

Kenya’s PPPs were also lauded as a cornerstone of its climate action framework. Stakeholders highlighted private companies, such as SunCulture, that provide solar-powered irrigation systems to smallholder farmers as a prime examples of private sector innovation. By enabling sustainable agricultural practices, these partnerships not only improve food security but also build resilience to climate shocks. A private sector actor remarked, “The collaboration between government and private actors ensures that Kenya’s climate solutions are practical and scalable.”⁵⁵

The National Climate Change Council, led by Kenya’s Directorate of Climate Change, exemplifies how interministerial coordination fosters cohesive climate action. By integrating efforts from the agriculture, energy, and water sectors, the council ensures that policies are implemented holistically across the country. This top-down coordination complements Kenya’s Participatory Climate Resilience Assessments at the grassroots level, which tailor action plans to local vulnerabilities. “Kenya’s approach to merging national priorities with local realities is a model for other African nations,” one respondent remarked.⁵⁶

Capacity building remains a critical component of Kenya’s inclusive approach. Programs targeting women and youth, such as training workshops on climate-smart agriculture and renewable technologies, were highlighted as essential for empowering vulnerable groups. Peer learning networks and participatory monitoring systems further enhance local capacities, ensuring that communities are not only beneficiaries but also drivers of climate action. As one private sector respondent noted, “Building local capacity ensures that Kenya’s climate strategies are sustainable and impactful in the long term.”⁵⁷

Through its collaborative and inclusive frameworks, Kenya offers a replicable model for integrating cross-sector and community-level climate action. Kenya’s approach, including FLLoCA, grassroots-led conservancies, and innovative PPPs, underscores the importance of aligning efforts across sectors and empowering local stakeholders. “Kenya’s strength lies in its ability to turn policies into practical solutions that resonate at every level—from national ministries to the most remote villages,” a private sector respondent summarized.⁵⁸

Driving Innovation: The Role of the Private Sector and Public-Private Partnerships

Kenya’s private sector and PPPs are at the forefront of driving innovation in renewable energy, agriculture, and climate-smart technologies. Stakeholders consistently emphasized the transformative impact of these collaborations, highlighting how they bridge resource gaps, foster technical expertise, and accelerate the adoption of sustainable solutions.

Renewable energy projects, such as the Lake Turkana Wind Power Project and pay-as-you-go solar systems, were frequently cited as milestones in Kenya’s green transition. Stakeholders pointed to companies like SunCulture and M-Kopa as examples of private-sector innovators whose products—including solar-powered irrigation systems and affordable solar home solutions—enhance energy access and resilience, particularly in underserved rural areas. As an energy expert noted, “These technologies demonstrate the potential of aligning profit-driven innovations with climate goals.”⁵⁹

Public-private partnerships have also catalyzed critical infrastructure development, particularly in water and sanitation. For example, collaborations between Narok County and private entities institutionalized projects like reverse osmosis plants, ensuring access to clean water for local communities. Similarly, agricultural processing zones for climate-resilient crops such as cassava have boosted value addition and improved food security, showcasing how PPPs can foster inclusive economic growth.

Stakeholders highlighted the role of subsidies and tax incentives in spurring private sector investments in renewable energy and climate technologies. By creating an enabling environment, the Kenyan government has attracted investments that drive sustainable innovations. However, challenges persist. Concerns about the quality and durability of products like solar-power systems were raised, prompting calls for stronger regulatory oversight by bodies like the Kenya Bureau of Standards to ensure long-term value for consumers.

In the agricultural sector, companies like Twiga Foods have embraced climate-smart supply chain technologies enhancing food security and reducing waste. These efforts align with Kenya’s broader goals of building climate resilience while addressing economic and social needs. Stakeholders also highlighted the success of business incubation and acceleration programs facilitated by the KCIC, which has supported over 3,500 enterprises with proof-of-concept grants, matching funds, and results-based financing. “KCIC bridges the gap between idea generation and market-ready solutions, making climate-smart innovations more accessible,” a representative from the organization remarked.⁶⁰

PPPs play a crucial role in community-level initiatives. Programs like World Bicycle Relief’s partnership with grassroots organizations have empowered youth champions to advocate for climate-smart practices, enhancing the scalability of community-driven solutions. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like the Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute provide entrepreneurs with access to facilities for product development, enabling local adaptation of global innovations.

Stakeholders identified the electric mobility sector as an emerging area of success, with rapid growth in electric bike assembly facilities creating jobs and reducing emissions. However, challenges such as political interference and financing constraints hinder the effectiveness of some PPP initiatives, particularly at the county level. Respondents emphasized the need for transparent frameworks and streamlined approval processes to mitigate these issues and maximize the potential of PPPs.

Kenya’s approach to PPPs has fostered the growth of its green economy, particularly in renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. Besides projects like Lake Turkana Wind Power, there has been a proliferation of biogas systems that exemplify the role of private investment in scaling climate-friendly solutions. Stakeholders praised Kenya’s feed-in tariff policy; which provides renewable energy producers with a guaranteed, above-market price for their output; and supportive regulatory frameworks for attracting private-sector participation. However, they also noted the importance of mitigating risks and ensuring accountability in PPPs to sustain these achievements.

To scale innovation further, stakeholders underscored the importance of public-private collaboration in technology transfer, adapting global innovations to local contexts. For example, partnerships have facilitated the development of solar-powered water systems, enabling smallholder farmers to transition from reliance on rainfall to irrigation. These efforts not only enhance food security but also demonstrate how tailored solutions can address Kenya’s unique climate challenges.

Kenya’s private sector contributes to sustainable agriculture. Organizations like One Acre Fund have supported smallholder farmers with climate-resilient seeds and training, while Total Energies’ Eco-Challenge project has increased tree cover across the country. “These initiatives showcase how private sector engagement can drive climate action while fostering economic resilience,” observed an environmental advocacy leader.⁶¹

Despite these successes, stakeholders emphasized the need to address regulatory barriers, financing gaps, and political interference, which can undermine progress. By fostering transparent PPP frameworks, enhancing quality control, and aligning financial incentives with policy goals, Kenya can continue to lead in innovation while advancing its climate resilience agenda. One private sector practitioner summarized, “Kenya’s strength lies in its ability to combine private expertise with public resources, creating impactful solutions that resonate locally and globally.”⁶²

Data-Driven Decisions: Advancing Climate Policy Through Research and Evidence

Kenya’s climate strategies are deeply rooted in evidence-based policymaking, a strength repeatedly emphasized by stakeholders. Scientific research plays a pivotal role, with studies on the effectiveness of innovative technologies such as sand dams in water-scarce regions guiding water resource management and biodiversity research shaping conservation initiatives. Collaborations with institutions such as the Kenya Meteorological Department and international organizations were praised for enriching Kenya’s climate change strategies and fostering global and local knowledge transfer.

Stakeholders highlighted the transformative impact of participatory vulnerability assessments conducted directly with communities, as seen in many counties, including Narok County. These assessments provide actionable insights that inform localized climate adaptation strategies, ensuring that policy decisions are not only accurate but also community owned. “Ground-level research fosters a sense of ownership among local stakeholders,” noted a conservancy manager, emphasizing the value of participatory approaches.⁶³

Despite these strengths, participants identified critical gaps, particularly in the alignment between national policies and local implementation. The lack of centralized platforms to share research findings and climate data hampers coordination and impedes the scaling of successful interventions. Stakeholders called for the establishment of repositories to document and disseminate findings, noting that such platforms would bolster Kenya’s credibility in global climate negotiations and attract additional investment. “By positioning itself as a hub for climate innovation, Kenya can solidify its leadership role,” remarked a subnational government representative.⁶⁴

Kenya’s approach to climate-smart agriculture, supported by organizations such as the World Bank, demonstrates how research informs practical solutions. Initiatives such as solar-powered irrigation systems and drought-resistant crops have addressed region-specific challenges, enhancing resilience in arid and semiarid areas. Stakeholders suggested that documenting grassroots initiatives and embedding them into national frameworks could bridge gaps between research and application, ensuring successful models are scalable across the continent.

The role of Kenyan research institutions, such as the University of Nairobi and Strathmore University, was frequently highlighted by respondents. Their contributions to national policies—ranging from renewable energy solutions to conservation and climate change strategies—underscore the importance of engaging communities during research. For example, transitioning from diesel-powered generators to solar energy systems illustrates how localized research aligns with sustainable development goals. However, participants noted challenges, including limited baseline data on environmental conditions and local technologies, which hinder effective policy formulation.

“Partnerships between academia, industry, and policymakers are crucial for addressing data gaps and fostering innovation,” a private university respondent remarked, underscoring the importance of collaboration in scaling Kenya’s climate strategies.⁶⁵ Programs like FLLoCA were also praised for leveraging research to access funding and develop proposals for localized initiatives. Stakeholders advocated for exchange programs and peer learning platforms to facilitate knowledge-sharing from the county level to international partners, strengthening Kenya’s role in regional and global climate leadership.

Kenya’s evidence-based policies have also guided its carbon market frameworks and adaptation strategies, offering replicable models for integrating data-driven solutions into national climate policies. Research supported by institutions like the International Development Research Centre halted biofuel projects that threatened ecosystems, demonstrating the importance of aligning policies with ecological realities. “These decisions highlight the power of robust research in averting environmental and social risks,” said a multinational development bank representative.⁶⁶

Knowledge-sharing platforms, including regional workshops and online portals, were frequently cited as essential tools for disseminating lessons learned and fostering cross-country learning. Continuous monitoring and evaluation systems ensure that policies remain adaptive and responsive to emerging challenges. “Policy feedback loops allow us to refine strategies based on real-time outcomes,” an energy expert explained, highlighting how Kenya balances local priorities with global climate goals.⁶⁷

In summary, Kenya’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking ensures that its climate strategies are grounded in scientific research and tailored to local realities. Addressing gaps in research application and fostering stronger partnerships will be critical to scaling Kenya’s successes and reinforcing its leadership in regional and global climate governance.

Global Partnerships: Unlocking International Support for Kenya’s Climate Agenda

Kenya’s climate strategies have greatly benefited from international partnerships, which stakeholders identified as essential for securing funding, technology transfer, and capacity building. Collaborations with global organizations, such as USAID, UK Aid Direct, Japan International Cooperation Agency, The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and the World Bank, have enabled transformative projects, including the construction of climate-smart infrastructure and the implementation of programs like FLLoCA. However, stakeholders emphasized the pressing need to reform global climate financing models to better address Africa’s unique challenges and ensure equitable resource distribution. An advocacy leader remarked, “Current mechanisms often bypass grassroots communities and focus on top-tier beneficiaries. Reform is overdue.”⁶⁸

In this context, the recently launched U.S.-Kenya Climate and Clean Energy Industrial Partnership highlights the growing recognition of Kenya as a model for integrating climate action with economic growth. This partnership underscores the shared conviction of Kenyan and U.S. leadership that while climate change poses existential challenges, it also presents unparalleled opportunities for green industrialization and economic transformation. The collaboration focuses on three key areas: clean energy deployment, clean energy supply chains, and green industrialization. Stakeholders praised this initiative as a strategic alignment of Kenya’s strengths in renewable energy with global efforts to create resilient value chains for low-emission goods and climate-forward services, such as electric vehicle supply chains, green agricultural processing, and clean cooking technologies.

The Africa Green Industrialization Initiative, championed by President Ruto and supported by U.S. President Joe Biden, serves as a groundbreaking framework for driving African agencies in the energy transition. For example, the Biden administration announced a new Clean Energy Supply Chain Collaborative (CESC Collaborative) aimed at expanding and diversifying clean energy supply chains that are critical to the clean energy transition. By joining the Clean Energy Supply Chain Collaborative as a launch partner, Kenya is poised to play a pivotal role in scaling sustainable clean energy solutions across the continent. This partnership represents an opportunity for Kenya to leverage its leadership in renewable energy—with over 90 percent of its energy derived from renewable sources—as a catalyst for regional and global green transitions.⁶⁹

Intra-African collaboration was also cited as a priority, with stakeholders advocating for shared resources and the exchange of best practices to strengthen regional resilience. Participants urged global partners, including the United States, to actively support these efforts by providing technical assistance, aligning policies with Africa’s climate goals, and fostering South-South cooperation. Kenya’s active role in regional initiatives, such as the East African Climate Finance Mobilization Initiative, demonstrates how shared frameworks can address transboundary issues and amplify collective impact.

Kenya’s community-driven conservation initiatives highlight the transformative power of local solutions in addressing global climate challenges. Partnerships between institutions have facilitated the development of ecosystem and landscape management plans that align local efforts with national and global frameworks, as exemplified by the Wildlife Research and Training Institute. One conservancy manager pointed out, “Kenya’s success in conservancies shows how global support can elevate localized efforts to create measurable global benefits.”⁷⁰ Similarly, local management plans such as rotational grazing programs seen in conservation areas in Kenya, such as the Maasai Mara landscape, show how local knowledge can be integrated into global frameworks, offering valuable lessons for climate resilience.

Kenya’s ability to secure global partnerships has also supported the development of transformative infrastructure, such as water harvesting facilities and solar-powered irrigation systems. Collaborative research on drought-resistant crops and initiatives targeting climate-smart agriculture demonstrate how partnerships between Kenyan institutions and global counterparts can scale innovations that address food security and energy access. Trade agreements, such as those under the United States’ African Growth and Opportunity Act, further enable Kenyan farmers to access international markets, strengthening the nexus between economic growth and climate resilience.

However, challenges persist. Stakeholders noted that complex funding processes and conditional aid often limit grassroots access to global climate financing. They emphasized the importance of simplifying funding processes and establishing direct engagement with local organizations to ensure resources are equitably distributed. Political interference and a lack of cohesive regional advocacy were also cited as barriers to optimizing Kenya’s global partnerships. Reforming global financing models to better reflect the realities of African nations remains a critical step toward ensuring equitable and sustainable climate action.

By aligning its policies with international frameworks, fostering intra-African collaboration, and leveraging global support to scale innovations, Kenya continues to set an example for integrating local and global priorities in climate action.

Conclusion

Kenya’s climate leadership demonstrates that the challenges of climate change can be transformed into opportunities for innovation, resilience, and economic growth. From pioneering renewable energy projects to fostering community-driven conservation, Kenya has established itself as a model for integrating local and global priorities in climate action.

For the United States and other global partners, Kenya offers valuable lessons in leveraging community knowledge, aligning public-private partnerships with climate goals, and fostering green industrialization. As highlighted by the U.S.-Kenya Climate and Clean Energy Industrial Partnership, these collaborations present a unique opportunity to support Kenya’s successes and replicate them across Africa, fostering a continent-wide green transition.

Kenya’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved when evidence-based policies, inclusive governance, and international collaboration converge. By continuing to champion bold, locally grounded, and globally aligned strategies, Kenya not only shapes East Africa’s climate future but also contributes to a more sustainable and equitable global response to climate change.

Robina Abuya is a climate change expert focused on energy and nature-based solutions, advancing sustainable development and resilience.

The author wishes to thank the many government officials, trade association leaders, business operators, youth leaders, diplomats, current and former politicians, journalists, local political analysts and academics, military officers, and citizens who met with her and shared their insights in the conduct of this research. She also wishes to thank Khasai Makhulo, who managed the data collection, as well as the research, editorial, and publication processes for this project. This report was made possible by the generous support of the Open Society Foundations.

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