NAIROBI, Kenya – As African nations rally for increased climate funding at the ongoing 2024 UN Climate Change Conference (COP29) in Baku, Azerbaijan, Kenya’s Environment Principal Secretary Dr. Festus Ngeno has issued a stern warning against the misuse of funds meant for combating climate change.
Speaking against a backdrop of mounting concerns over the limited impact of previous funding, Dr. Ngeno emphasized that resources must directly benefit the communities most affected by the climate crisis.
“We suffer heavily from the effects of climate change, and so when you get these funds, let them be used for the intended purpose,” he stated, underscoring the need for transparency and equity in managing climate finances.
The conference has seen intensified advocacy from Global South nations, including Kenya, for a USD 1.3 trillion annual commitment from the Global North.
These funds are intended to support mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage initiatives in vulnerable regions.
Dr. Ngeno urged for the timely release of climate funds, warning against delays that often hinder critical interventions.
“We need to see transparency, we need to see equity,” he added, calling for accountability mechanisms to ensure funds are not only disbursed promptly but also used effectively.
Leading Kenya’s delegation, Dr. Ngeno has been actively engaging in bilateral discussions to advocate for Kenya’s climate priorities.
The country remains at the forefront of Africa’s push for climate justice, highlighting the disproportionate impact of global warming on developing nations.
Kenya has faced severe climate shocks, including prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall, which have devastated livelihoods and strained its economy.
The government is keen to ensure that international funding commitments translate into tangible benefits for communities bearing the brunt of these challenges.
The COP29 negotiations come as questions linger over past climate projects, with critics pointing to a lack of measurable benefits despite significant investments.
Dr. Ngeno’s remarks resonate with a broader call for accountability and efficacy in the global climate finance system.
Speaking against a backdrop of mounting concerns over the limited impact of previous funding, Dr. Ngeno emphasized that resources must directly benefit the communities most affected by the climate crisis.
“We suffer heavily from the effects of climate change, and so when you get these funds, let them be used for the intended purpose,” he stated, underscoring the need for transparency and equity in managing climate finances.
The conference has seen intensified advocacy from Global South nations, including Kenya, for a USD 1.3 trillion annual commitment from the Global North.
These funds are intended to support mitigation, adaptation, and loss and damage initiatives in vulnerable regions.
Dr. Ngeno urged for the timely release of climate funds, warning against delays that often hinder critical interventions.
“We need to see transparency, we need to see equity,” he added, calling for accountability mechanisms to ensure funds are not only disbursed promptly but also used effectively.
Leading Kenya’s delegation, Dr. Ngeno has been actively engaging in bilateral discussions to advocate for Kenya’s climate priorities.
The country remains at the forefront of Africa’s push for climate justice, highlighting the disproportionate impact of global warming on developing nations.
Kenya has faced severe climate shocks, including prolonged droughts and erratic rainfall, which have devastated livelihoods and strained its economy.
The government is keen to ensure that international funding commitments translate into tangible benefits for communities bearing the brunt of these challenges.
The COP29 negotiations come as questions linger over past climate projects, with critics pointing to a lack of measurable benefits despite significant investments.
Dr. Ngeno’s remarks resonate with a broader call for accountability and efficacy in the global climate finance system.
