In a major step to address the growing threat of climate change, the Danish government has granted KSh 907.9 million to support climate resilience in Kenya, particularly targeting communities in Northern and Coastal regions. This funding, channeled through the Danish Development Agency, will underpin a four-year program led by the Northern Rangelands Trust (NRT), focusing on nature-based solutions to environmental degradation.
The initiative seeks to restore degraded ecosystems through a range of activities, including forest rehabilitation, mangrove conservation, and the promotion of renewable energy use. The intervention aims to not only revitalize the natural environment but also improve the livelihoods of the communities that depend on these ecosystems.
With this new funding, Denmark’s total support toward climate resilience in Kenya has now reached KSh 4 billion over the past 13 years. This consistent backing has allowed for transformative projects across the country, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability and community empowerment.
One of the highlighted projects includes the restoration of 22 hectares of the Ngare Ndare Forest in Meru County. This forest rehabilitation involves the planting of indigenous tree species to restore the natural forest cover and strengthen water catchment systems. These efforts are designed to enhance ecological stability and reduce reliance on forest resources, particularly for firewood.
Communities around Ngare Ndare Forest are being actively involved in these efforts. Tree nurseries in the area produce over 100,000 seedlings each season. These nurseries grow both indigenous and exotic trees indigenous ones are used for forest restoration, while exotic trees are supplied to neighboring farms. A community engagement strategy known as the “one-for-one” initiative encourages residents to participate in reforestation efforts. For every seedling purchased, residents receive an extra one free, further promoting tree planting across the region. Since 2010, more than 10 million seedlings have been distributed through this model.
In Laikipia and other arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs), the challenges posed by climate change are even more pronounced. Rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, and frequent droughts have disrupted traditional livelihoods and led to environmental stress. These conditions often contribute to local conflicts as communities compete for increasingly scarce resources such as water and pasture.
By addressing these root causes, the new grant aims to build long-term resilience in ASAL regions. The program integrates environmental restoration with community development, seeking to reduce pressure on natural resources while promoting sustainable alternatives. Key components of the initiative include access to clean water, green energy, agroforestry, sustainable agriculture, mangrove restoration, and rangeland management.
In addition to the ecological benefits, these projects are expected to contribute to peacebuilding efforts. As competition for dwindling natural resources has been a source of tension in affected areas, improving resource availability can ease conflict and foster cooperation among communities.
The Danish government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting vulnerable populations in Kenya, particularly in regions most affected by climate change. Past support has already contributed to improved access to water, healthcare, and education, laying the groundwork for holistic community development.
The latest grant reinforces a growing recognition that climate resilience must be community-led, sustainable, and inclusive. By investing in nature-based solutions and empowering local populations, the initiative is paving the way for a more resilient and environmentally secure future for Kenya.
