NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has called on international partners to fulfill their climate financing commitments, warning that delays in funding threaten global efforts to combat climate change.
Speaking at State House during his New Year diplomatic address on Monday, Ruto underscored Kenya’s commitment to leading by example in the transition to a green economy.
He stressed that climate financing must be equitable, ensuring that vulnerable nations—especially in Africa—are not left behind in the fight against climate change.
“As we approach COP30, we call on international partners to honor their climate financing commitments,” Ruto said. “Climate threats do not recognize borders; they demand a collective global response.”
With the 30th UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) set for November 2025 in Belem, Brazil, Ruto emphasized Africa’s central role in shaping global climate policy.
He pointed out that while Africa contributes the least to global carbon emissions, it bears the brunt of climate-related disasters, from droughts to devastating floods.
“The effects of climate change disproportionately impact the African continent, and urgent action is needed to address both immediate challenges and long-term solutions,” he said.
He cautioned that inaction and geopolitical divisions would only escalate the crisis, urging world leaders to treat climate action as a shared responsibility rather than an option.
Ruto also highlighted Kenya’s significant strides in sustainability, citing the country’s progress in renewable energy and reforestation efforts.
He noted that over 93% of Kenya’s electricity now comes from renewable sources such as geothermal, wind, and solar—demonstrating the feasibility of a low-carbon economy.
He further pointed to the success of Kenya’s National Tree Growing Restoration Campaign, which aims to plant 15 billion trees by 2032.
In 2024 alone, the initiative saw 750 million trees planted and nurtured, marking a major step in the country’s environmental conservation efforts.
COP30 will come at a crucial time, as countries are required to update their national climate action plans (NDCs) to curb emissions.
The conference will also focus on the role of nature and land use in sustainable development, under the theme ‘Economy for the Transition.’
