Kenya Pushes for Climate Financing as German-African Summit Kicks Off

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Deputy President Kithure Kindiki with German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck at his Karen Residence in Nairobi on December 3, 2024/DPCS
NAIROBI, Kenya — Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has called for increased climate financing to bolster Kenya’s fight against the adverse effects of climate change, emphasizing the country’s commitment to leading climate action efforts in Africa.

Kindiki made the appeal during a meeting with German Vice Chancellor and Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action Robert Habeck, ahead of the German-African Business Summit (GABS) in Nairobi.

The two-day event, which concludes on December 4, aims to deepen economic partnerships between African nations and Germany.

“Kenya is experiencing the harsh realities of climate change through prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall, and shifting weather patterns,” said Kindiki. “These challenges undermine food security, water access, and energy generation, making climate action an urgent priority.”

He commended President William Ruto’s leadership on the issue, describing him as a “thought leader for Africa” in championing climate justice, green financing, and collective solutions to a global crisis.

Kindiki expressed optimism that the summit would address the financing gaps hindering climate adaptation efforts in Kenya and across the continent.

“We hope this summit will not only tackle green financing but also strengthen Kenya’s capacity to combat climate change and address adaptation challenges,” he said.

Habeck acknowledged Germany’s longstanding partnership with Kenya and highlighted opportunities for collaboration in areas such as renewable energy, agriculture, trade, and climate diplomacy.

Discussions between the leaders at the Deputy President’s Karen residence also touched on key bilateral priorities, including labour migration, tourism, and investment.

The GABS, held biennially, serves as a platform to foster economic ties between African governments and German businesses.

This year’s summit is particularly significant as Kenya positions itself as a regional leader in climate action.

Also present at the meeting were Kenyan officials, including Education Cabinet Secretary Julius Ogamba and Principal Secretaries Teresia Mbaika (Devolution), Roseline Njogu (Diaspora Affairs), Abubakar Hassan (Investment Promotion), and Dr. Idris Salim Dakota (Cabinet Affairs).

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