Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue. It is now a national and regional security priority, according to Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary, Dr. Raymond Omollo.
Dr. Omollo made the remarks in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where he is attending the 2nd Africa Climate Summit (ACS2). He hosted a side event themed “Climate Change as a National and Regional Security Priority.”
Kenya’s Bold Contribution
At the summit, Dr. Omollo highlighted Kenya’s progress through the Chiefs’ Network. This initiative mobilizes households and communities to plant trees and strengthen climate resilience at the grassroots.
The program is closely linked to President William Ruto’s 15 billion tree target by 2032. So far, government data shows that more than 500 million seedlings have been planted since 2022.
Community-driven tree nurseries are also creating jobs. Many young people, especially in cities such as Nairobi, are now earning a livelihood from tree growing. Counties, on the other hand, are integrating climate-smart forestry programs to boost local resilience.
Climate Change Impacts in Kenya
Kenya is already facing the severe effects of climate change. Prolonged droughts have left millions food insecure, especially in the North Eastern region.
Rising temperatures have fueled resource-based conflicts. At the same time, flash floods and erratic rainfall continue to disrupt lives, destroy infrastructure, and cause economic losses.
The National Drought Management Authority (NDMA) notes that the 2022–2023 drought was the worst in 40 years. It affected over 4.5 million Kenyans, decimated livestock herds, and pushed humanitarian systems to the brink.
Climate Action as Security
By linking climate change to national security, Kenya is shifting how the crisis is addressed. The Chiefs’ Network shows that community-led action can support both environmental and security goals.
Dr. Omollo said Kenya’s approach demonstrates how grassroots mobilization and national planning can work together to confront the climate crisis.
