Tana River County is one of the 47 counties in Kenya. The County has embarked on the enactment of key policies and legal framework on climate change. Mainstreaming of climate change into the County plans including the County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP), Annual Development Plan (ADP), Sectoral Plans etc. was also done to build community resilience against the impact of climate change at the same time implementing the mitigation measures. Here are the key policies, legal, regulations and plans in the County:

1. The Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021
2. The Tana River County Climate Change Fund Regulations 2023
3. The Tana County Participatory Climate Risk Assessment Report 2023
4. The Tana River County Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027
5. The Tana River County Climate Change Finance Policy 2023
6. The Tana River County Disaster Risk Management Act 2020
7. The Draft Tana River County Climate Change Policy 2023

Status of Implementation

1. Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021

The County has enacted The Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021 into law after the bill has been approved by the County Assembly of Tana River and subsequently accented into Act on 6^th August 2021 by His Excellency The Governor Dr. Major (Rtd) Dhadho Gadae Godhana. The Act was published by The Kenya Gazette on 1^st November 2021. The purpose of this Act is to enhance climate resilience through development, management, implementation, regulation and monitoring of adaptation and mitigation measures and actions. This Act had come into effect in November 2021 and its operationalization is ongoing. This act is in line with The Climate Change Act 2016 and intends to build on the efforts done by National Government on adaptation and mitigation measures on climate change. On the status of implementation of the act, the County has started establishing key structures. The act has three (3) committees including;

1. County Climate Change Steering Committee

Section 5 of the Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021 established County Climate Change Steering Committee.

Section 7(1) states that the Steering Committee shall comprise of 11 members who shall be appointed to the committee by the Governor.

In a letter dated 17^th May 2023 the Governor His Excellency Dr. Major (Rtd) Dhadho Gadae Godhana nominated the members of the steering committee by forwarding the names to County Assembly of Tana River. Subsequently, the steering committee was approved by the House on 9^th August 2023. The committee was launched by H.E. The Governor in a ceremony held at County Headquarters on 12^th August 2023.

1. County Climate Change Planning Committee

Section 15 of the Act established the County climate Change Planning Committee, which shall comprise of 10 members appointed to the Committee by the County Executive Committee Member for the time being in-charge of climate change matters.

In a letter dated 18^th May 2023 CECM Environment and Climate Change nominated members of planning committee by forwarding the names to the County Assembly of Tana River. Subsequently, the planning committee was approved by the House on 1^st August 2023. The committee was launched by H.E. The Governor in a ceremony held at County Headquarters on 12^th August 2023.

1. Ward Climate Change Planning Committees

Section 23 of the Act state that Ward Climate Change Planning Committees shall be established in all the 15 wards of the County. The process of the nominations of ward committees is spearheaded by Ward Administrator in the presence of Sub-County Administrator or his representative at ward offices {Section 25(2)(3)(4)(5)}. After nomination process, the Ward Administrator shall submit the names of ward committee members to County Chief Officer for formal appointment.  The committee comprises of 8 members including seven community members of different interest groups (youth, elders, persons living with disability and community-based organization).

These committees have been established in all the wards and formal appointment was done by the County Chief Officer for Environment and Climate Change effective 1^st November 2022.

1. Fund Administrator

Section 46(2) states that the Fund Administrator is appointed by the CECM for Finance in consultation with the CECM for Climate Change. The Fund Administrator will sit in both County Steering and County Climate Change Planning Committees as an ex-officio  member (with no voting rights) to provide updates on the financial status of the County Climate Change Fund.

The Fund Administrator was appointed on 14^th February 2023 by CECM Finance and Economic Planning.

Establishment of County Climate Change Fund (CCCF)

Section 46(1) of the Act calls for the establishment of the County Climate Change Fund (CCCF) to provide funding for priority climate change actions and interventions identified by communities and other stakeholders and approved by the Steering Committee. The county has committed in this Act (Section 47(a)) to allocate not less than 2% of the county development budget to this fund. The County has actualized this promise by allocating KES 50,000,000.00 in this Financial Year (2022/2023) to the development vote head of the CCCF. For the Financial Year 2023/2024 the County has allocated another 50,000,000 for this fund. The County has opened Special Purpose Account (SPA) with the Central Bank of Kenya (CBK) as per Public Finance Management Act 2015 in the management and administration of public funds.

• The Tana River County Climate Change Fund Regulations 2023

Section 48(1) of the Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021 states that the County Executive Committee member in-charge of Finance shall, in consultation with the County Executive Committee Member Environment and Climate Change, develop Regulations for administration and management of the Fund.

The Fund Regulations was approved by the County Assembly on 30^th May 2023.

• Participatory Climate Risk Assessment (PCRA) Report February 2023

The County did the Participatory Climate Risk Assessment (PCRA) assessing the exposure to climate hazards & risks and social vulnerability to climate change. This process started with the stakeholders meeting on 12^th January 2023 in Hola where we formed the cross-sectoral technical working group. The technical working group was later trained for one week before data collection was done in each of the 15 wards of the county from 30^th January 2023 to 4^th February 2023. The Ward PCRA reports was developed for each ward which was later collapsed into one county PCRA reports. The County PCRA report was subjected to a validation process at a multistakeholder workshop in Hola.

As per the report, the main climatic hazards which the residents of Tana River are vulnerable to are:

1. Drought affecting all the wards in the County
2. Floods affecting wards such as Chewele, Madogo, Chewani, Mikinduni, Garsen North, Garsen West, Garsen Central, Garsen South, Kipini East etc.
3. Invasive species affecting all the wards in the County
4. Conflicts (human-wildlife conflicts, nature-based conflicts etc.)
5. Pest and Diseases
6. Sea Water Intrusion in Kipini West and Kipini East Wards

The County formulated the County Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027 to tackle these hazards. 

• County Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027

Section 32(1) of the Act state that there shall be a County Climate Change Action Plan (CCCAP) 2023-2027 to run concurrently with the National Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027 and third generation County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023-2027. During our engagement with the FLLoCA program we were made aware that the county MUST do Participatory Climate Risk Assessment (PCRA) before CCCAP. In this regard, the County has first done the PCRA assessment in all wards in February 2023 and formulated CCCAP 2023-2027 in May 2023. The plan was validated by community and stakeholders on 23^rd May 2023 in all the sub-counties and was approved by County Executive Committee (County Cabinet) on 26^th May 2023. The Plan was later forwarded by CECM Environment and Climate Change to County Assembly in a letter dated 29^th May 2023 for adoption. The Plan was approved by the House on 9^th August 2023 and later launched by His Excellency the Governor on 12^th August 2023.  

The Action Plan has six chapters as follows:

Chapter 1: Introduction

Chapter 2: Action Plan formulation process

Chapter 3: Review of Relevant Policies and Legal Frameworks

Chapter 4: Vulnerability to climate related hazards in Tana River County

Chapter 5: Climate Change Adaptation and Mitigation Plan

Chapter 6: Plan Monitoring and Review

The main chapter is the chapter 5 which focuses on adaptation and mitigation plans. Under this chapter we have 8 strategic areas which is prioritized in the next five years. These are:

1. Food and Nutrition Security
2. Water Security and Blue Economy
3. Ecosystem conservation and sustainable land management
4. Climate proof infrastructure, green energy production and use
5. Sanitation, Health and human settlements
6. Knowledge Management and Capacity building of community, stakeholders and county officials
7. Sustainable financing for climate actions
8. Governance and coordination of climate change adaptation and mitigation plan

As per the County Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027, the County needs to mobilize KES 3.85 billion in the next 5 years to actualize these 8 strategic objectives. Out of this, the County can raise KES 250 million in five years from its allocation to CCCF and KES 445.5 million from FLLoCA grants in three years. This will leave the county with a gap of about KES 3.1 billion in five years. We call upon our partners and other well-wishers to bridge this gap for us.

• The Tana River County Climate Change Finance Policy 2023

This policy was adopted by County Assembly on 14^th March 2023. Some of the strategic interventions has been implemented while implementing the Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021. This includes;

1. Establishment of County Climate Change Fund (CCCF)
2. Establish the Tana River County Climate Change Fund Regulations for administration and management of the Fund as per the section 48(1) of the Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021
3. Carried out the County Level Participatory Climate Risk Assessment (PCRA) assessing the exposure to climate hazards & risks and social vulnerability to climate change.
4. Formulation of the County Climate Change Action Plan (CCCAP) as per the section 32 of the Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021
5. Establishment of the County Directorate of Climate Change. The Directorate was established through an Executive Order Number 1 of the Governor dated 11^th October 2022.

The County will continue implementation of this policy and the Act to realize enhanced climate resilience through development, management, implementation, regulation and monitoring of adaptation and mitigation measures and actions.

• The Tana River County Disaster Risk Management Act 2020

This Act was passed and implemented before the climate change act. Section 4 of the act establishes Disaster Risk Management Committees while section 9 county disaster risk management plan which will run for 5 years is entrenched. To implement this plan the act also under section 18 established Disaster Risk Management Fund.

• The Draft Tana River County Climate Change Policy 2023

This policy was ought to have been the first policy formulated for climate change. However, this was not done as the Act, Fund Regulations, Climate Finance Policy and Action Plan all presided it. The County has now started the process of formulating this policy. The department of Environment and Climate Change developed the first draft which was reviewed by the technical team drawn from the different departments, agencies and non-state actors. Next step is now the public participation forums at sub county level (with representation from each ward), then cabinet approval and county assembly adoption.

Other policies and plans

1. The Tana River County Forest Policy 2023
2. The Solid Waste Management Act 2022
3. The Tana River County Forest and Landscape Restoration Action Plan 2021-2030 (FOLAREP)
4. The Draft Environment Policy

Acknowledgement

During the policy/acts/plans formulation and development the county was supported by different partners. We wish to acknowledge and thank them. For instance:

1. Nature Kenya supported the county during the development of Tana River County Climate Change Act 2021, The PCRA Report, The DRM Act, The County Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027 (CCCAP), The County Forest Policy, The FOLAREP etc.
2. World Food Program (WFP) supported us in PCRA and CCCAP
3. GIZ supported us to develop the Tana River County Climate Finance Policy and now the County Climate Change Policy
4. CISP supported us in PCRA report and CCCAP
5. Welthungerhilfe (WHH) supported us in the Environment Policy
6. The Wetlands International supported us in the County Climate Change Action Plan 2023-2027

“Across the world, increasingly dangerous weather patterns and devastating storms are abruptly ending the long-running debate over the reality of climate change. Not only is it real, but it’s also here, and its effects are giving rise to frighteningly new global phenomenon: the man-made natural disaster.” Barack Obama

In March 2020, Uganda was shocked by the news of a landslide in Bududa district that wreaked havoc. The landslide was as a result of the loosening of the soils following the onset of torrential rains on the 25^th of February 2010. Nametsi Village was hit the hardest, as 365 people died following a debris flow on the 1^st of March^[1]. Houses, markets, as well as churches were destroyed, roads were blocked, loss of life, livestock and property, and destruction of infrastructure.

Several people were reported missing including children who had taken shelter in a health center that was subsequently destroyed due to further extreme weather events.

Authorities promptly employed a disaster response strategy to help the affected persons which included distributing relief items, offering medical care, and eventual relocation of the displaced person. After handling the crisis, authorities felt the situation had been comprehensively addressed, but little did we know that this was only the beginning of what would become the ‘new normal’ around the Elgon Mountain areas.

Bududa district, located about 275km (170 miles) north-east of the capital Kampala nestled in the vicinity of Mount Elgon, has earned a notorious reputation as a landslide-prone zone within Uganda^[2]. The erosion of slopes caused by these landslides poses a critical issue in the region, not only affecting humans’ but also far-reaching environmental repercussions and the specter of future food shortages.

The history of landslides in Bududa

The landslide-prone areas in Uganda include Rwenzori, Mount Elgon and the Kigezi regions. These are characterized by dense populations making them high-risk areas. Landslides have been occurring in Bududa and historical accounts reveal that between 1997 to 1999, the relentless onslaught of 66 landslides claimed the lives of 48 individuals and displaced more than 10,000(Kitutu,2004). However, recent landslide occurrences have been more catastrophic compared to those in the past^[3]. The grim toll continued into the subsequent years, with 2010 and 2011 bearing witness to the tragic loss of around 380 lives due to landslides within this very region. In October 2018, over 20 people were killed in landslides, and on 3rd December 2019, a downpour that lasted almost 11 hours led to landslides and movement of soil mass down the steep hills of Bududa district that killed over 28 people and 499 houses destroyed affecting the 6 villages of Bushika, Bushibekye, and Bunabutiti Sub Counties^[4].

What exactly is causing the rampant landslides?

Bududa’s location on the slopes of Mountain Elgon makes it prone to landslides. This coupled with the unusual increase in rainfall patterns escalates the hazards to disasters. The Mount Elgon area has a moist to moderately dry climate, with annual average precipitation ranging from 1000 to 2500 mm, over twice the national average of 1200mm. The Anthropocene epoch seems to be one of the catalyzing agents of the rampant disasters. Climate change impacts that include extreme rainfall events, hailstorms and unpredictable rainfall frequency become worse once they fuse with unsustainable destructive human activities.

The only source of livelihood for local communities around Elgon Mountain is depending on land for their survival^[5] with 69% of the households depending on subsistence farming for their income^[6]. They carry out Agricultural activities that involve the cultivation of crops like bananas, beans, maize, cassava, coffee, tea, sweet potatoes, groundnuts, and livestock rearing. The residents have narrated how fertile the slopes are and most of them have never experienced hunger. The Elgon mountains have very rich fertile soils for Arabica coffee cultivation^[7] with the region being among the leaders in Uganda’s coffee production. When rescue interventions come, there is a dilemma between leaving the fertile ancestral lands and moving to other areas^[8].  Their fear is that most government interventions of relocating them end up sending them to areas with poor soil conditions that worsen their livelihoods^[9].

The population of Bududa is high with reports showing that 1,059 people live in every kilometer. This is seven times the national average of 161 persons per square kilometer^[10].

A study conducted by UNESCO reveals that the level of Education in the district of Bududa is low. 10% of the population have not attained formal education and 60% have only attained up to primary level way below the Uganda literacy rate of 76.53%^[11]. This could partly explain some of the reasons why the locals are moving to the steep slopes and why the environmental problems are immense^[12]. They are cultivating the slopes, where most of the land is loose. That is one of the reasons landslides have increased annually and yet in the past a landslide would occur after 10 years. The locals have cut most of the trees that existed on the slopes without questioning the likely impacts this could have on the fragile soils. Trees play an important role in stabilizing steep slopes by reducing soil erosion occurrences, binding soil particles together, and covering the soil. However, in Bududa, unsustainable Agricultural practices have led to the clearing of the vegetation cover, and no forests were left behind. More intense precipitation events that can be continuous for up to two days worsen the situation coupled with the lack of vegetation cover such as trees and undergrowth to reduce soil erosion which weakens the soil structure. 

What can be done?

Nature-based solutions can provide sustainable solutions. Mountain slopes are fragile lands that are prone to soil erosion and thus landslides. Serious afforestation and reafforestation programs are needed to cover these bare grounds with vegetation. Of course, we can also employ hybrid methods like mechanization mixed with vegetation planting however this might be costly. Maintaining or promoting the planting of indigenous tree species that are adapted to the local solutions and Agroforestry systems could offer some solutions. Grasses like the case of steep slopes in India can also stabilize slopes and reduce landslides occurrence^[13].

If the unexpected rainfall amounts increase, these will worsen the situation. To counter this, settlement patterns need to be changed, promoting community sensitization, encouraging family planning, relocating people from risk areas, and creating alternative income-generating activities. This is crucial to lessen pressure on land. Steep slopes and dykes should be avoided for settlement purposes^[14].

The Katonga River

River Katonga is located in southwestern Uganda and runs over 220 km flowing from Lake Victoria northwards into Lake Wamala and then to Lake Edward.  The history of the Katonga River is complex and multi-layered, with different groups of people holding different views of the river. For some, it is a reminder of the tragic events that took place during the wars of the 1980s, while for others it is a source of food and livelihood. The different perceptions of the river reflect the diverse experiences and histories of the people who live along its banks. It also highlights the complex relationship between humans and the environment and the way that history and memory can shape that relationship^[15].

The Katonga River has been expanding over time and the first reports were reported according to The New Vision in 2000 with locals claiming that the river was slowly turning into a lake. During this period, Uganda received heavy amounts of rainfall leading to an increase in the water levels of the river. This made the elders start reporting that the gods had decided to turn the river into a lake. The history of Lake Wamala and Nalubaale (Victoria) as narrated by elders is that Nalubaale, Katonga, and Wamala are gods who are related and responsible for the waters in these water bodies and want to turn River Katonga into a lake. However, this is not the cause, and it is evident that the changes are an impact of climate change that is being accelerated by anthropogenic activities.

It has been 4 months since the 11th of May when the Katonga River burst its banks leading to flooding. The floods cut off the movement of people from Kampala to the Masaka and western parts of Uganda.

The story of the Katonga River’s expansion and the flooding events that have followed is a fascinating example of how climate change and human activities can interact to cause environmental problems. The elders’ belief that the gods are responsible for these events is understandable, given their traditional understanding of the world. However, the scientific evidence shows that these events are the result of a combination of natural processes and human activities, not the will of the gods. This is a reminder that it is important to have a clear understanding of the causes of environmental problems so that we can develop effective solutions.

Flood events have indeed been happening in Uganda for a long time, but they have become more severe in recent years due to the combined effects of climate change and poor land management practices. Flood mitigation is one of the many benefits that wetlands provide, but this can only be achieved if the wetlands are intact and not fragmented by human activities such as rice farming. Degraded wetlands lose, their ability to absorb and store water, leading to more frequent and severe flooding.

Poverty and ineffective policies are also contributing factors to the degradation of wetlands. As the population increases, people have resorted to cultivating the wetlands and relying on them for water supply and farming. Brickmaking has led to the reclamation and degradation of wetlands. These anthropogenic pressures are exacerbated by climate change, which can cause increased droughts and extreme weather events that further degrade the wetlands.

The unsustainable practices are a major contributor to wetland degradation, and their cumulative effects are evident in the form of increased flooding and other environmental issues. This is a clear example of the Anthropocene, the geological epoch where humans have become the dominant force shaping the Earth’s systems. These practices are not sustainable in the long term, and may lead to a lost war against nature. The need for social discipline and a change in mindset is crucial to reversing this trend.

Nature is a vital fabric of our society and economy, and it is our moral responsibility to coexist with it rather than destroy it for short-term gain. To achieve this goal, we must collaborate to end environmental destruction, cultivate social norms that discourage activities that endanger the environment, while holding violators of these norms accountable. It is imperative that we recognize the value of nature sooner rather than later, to ensure a sustainable future for our planet and all its inhabitants^[16].

The government must play its role in strengthening environmental protection laws and enforcing them with swift consequences. Local leaders and law enforcement must be held responsible for their mandate of holding the environment in trust for their people, and NEMA should develop a framework to recognize and reward those making efforts to conserve the environment while punishing those who engage in activities that harm it. It is important to note that inaction is a decision in itself, and we must decide to take action now to protect our environment.

In conclusion the cases of Katonga and Bududa show the interconnectedness of human activities, climate change, and environmental disasters. In both cases, human activities such as deforestation, unplanned infrastructural development, and poor land management have led to increased erosion and destabilization of the land, which makes it more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. The resulting floods and landslides have had devastating impacts on the communities living in those areas. It’s a clear illustration of how the Anthropocene is a time of both human-driven change and increased vulnerability to the effects of climate change. This highlights the urgent need for action on climate change and human-induced environmental degradation. While local efforts such as reforestation and improved land management can help to mitigate the impacts, the scale of the problem that is climate change requires global action. Only by working together, we hope to avert even greater disasters in the future. Climate Change is real and already happening.

^[1] “Landslides in eastern Uganda displace 3,500 people – Anadolu Ajansı.” 14 Oct. 2021, https://www.aa.com.tr/en/africa/landslides-in-eastern-uganda-displace-3-500-people/2392210.  

^[2] “Hundreds feared dead after Uganda landslides – BBC News.” 3 Mar. 2010, http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/8545005.stm.  

^[3] “Large Landslide in Uganda – NASA Earth Observatory.” 12 Mar. 2010, https://earthobservatory.nasa.gov/images/43130/large-landslide-in-uganda.  

^[4] “Uganda: Landslides Final Report – DREF Operation MDRUG043.” 1 Mar. 2021, https://reliefweb.int/report/uganda/uganda-landslides-final-report-dref-operation-mdrug043.  

^[5] “3. LANDSLIDES IN UGANDA. 3.1 Landslide hazard assessment..” https://unesco-uganda.ug/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/LandSlides-In-Uganda.pdf.  

^[6] “Bududa District – ubos.org.” https://www.ubos.org/wp-content/uploads/publications/2014CensusProfiles/BUDUDA.pdf.  

^[7] “How the female coffee farmers of Uganda are building their livelihoods.” 14 Aug. 2023, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/female-coffee-farmers-uganda-building-livelihoods.  

^[8] “Why Bududa landslide victims decline resettlement – Uganda.” 7 Jun. 2019, https://reliefweb.int/report/uganda/why-bududa-landslide-victims-decline-resettlement.  

^[9] “Why Bududa landslide victims decline resettlement – Uganda.” 7 Jun. 2019, https://reliefweb.int/report/uganda/why-bududa-landslide-victims-decline-resettlement.  

^[10] “National Population and Housing Census 2014 – ubos.org.” https://www.ubos.org/wp-content/uploads/publications/03_20182014_National_Census_Main_Report.pdf.  

^[11] “Uganda | UNESCO UIS.” https://uis.unesco.org/en/country/ug?theme=culture.    

^[12] “Uganda: Why Bududa? – ReliefWeb.” 5 Mar. 2010, https://reliefweb.int/report/uganda/uganda-why-bududa.  

^[13] “3. LANDSLIDES IN UGANDA. 3.1 Landslide hazard assessment..” https://unesco-uganda.ug/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/LandSlides-In-Uganda.pdf.  

^[14] “Curbing landslide risk in Uganda – UNDRR.” 2 Feb. 2016, http://www.undrr.org/news/curbing-landslide-risk-uganda.  

^[15] “The Tale Of River Katonga – New Vision Official.” https://www.newvision.co.ug/news/1025882/tale-river-katonga.  

^[16] “Katonga, Rwizi burst their banks – The Independent Uganda.” 26 May. 2023, https://www.independent.co.ug/katonga-rwizi-burst-their-banks/.  

Thank you and happy to be here talking about NbS, something that is very close to my heart. Preceded by its adoption by the 98th Meeting of the IUCN Council in February 2020, the first-ever Global Standard for Nature-based Solutions was launched in July 2020. This was after 20 years of research and consultation with experts and countries across the globe to ensure a common consensus on its definition, how best to develop the standards, and what it entails in terms of indicators and criteria. While they are known to address multiple sustainability crises, including climate change, food and water security, land degradation, and biodiversity loss, the NbS are either underutilized or misunderstood hence the reason why IUCN took the bold step to develop the standards.

To support governments and societies in the adoption and utilization of NbS as best practice, IUCN is setting up NbS hubs to serve as technical centers of excellence.

We want to create more awareness; especially on the importance of NbS and building capacities across Africa;  on how to develop the solutions and implement them on the ground.

• Land degradation in Eastern Africa is on the increase as a result of desertification, land fragmentation, mono-culture, and urbanization. How are the IUCN Decade of Ecosystem Restoration, Bonn Challenge, and AFR100 responding to reverse the land degradation challenges?

In the last 2 decades, IUCN has made significant efforts to address the said global challenges. For example, in 2011, IUCN together with the government of Germany launched a global restoration initiative commonly known as Bonn Challenge (BC) that has seen the commitment to restore approximately 129 million Ha of land in Africa where  47%  of these commitments are within the Eastern Africa region.

Further in addressing these challenges, IUCN has been at the forefront of the continental efforts to domesticate the initiative in Africa including the launch of the AFR100. Soon  after the announcement of the BC, IUCN in collaboration with WRI developed a Restoration Opportunity Assessment Methodology   – ROAM – which is used by countries in determining their restoration potential and developing feasible and sustainable restoration land use options. Using ROAM, IUCN has supported several countries in Africa to understand their restoration potential and priorities. In EA alone IUCN has supported a number of countries among them   Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, and Ethiopia in undertaking restoration assessment and developing restoration strategies towards achieving their 2030 targets.

IUCN has also developed a global restoration monitoring framework known as the Restoration Barometer that helps countries monitor restoration progress against the commitment made. So far IUCN has supported 13 countries in the continent in the application of the barometer with the latest application in EA being in Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, and Ethiopia. The application is currently underway in Tanzania. Through restoration stock take countries can track the restoration progress to inform the required actions and efforts including but not limited to financing, strategies, institutional coordination, and so on.

Apart from using data and science to inform actions and policy direction in the region,  IUCN is also on the ground implementing restoration activities through various projects aimed at restoring degraded lands and ecosystems, halting biodiversity loss, increasing climate resilience,  improving lives, livelihoods, and human well-being, and developing innovative and inclusive financing mechanisms.  Talking about financing, IUCN has been at the forefront of supporting countries in developing multilateral donor-funded projects which have been transformative and catalytic enabling countries to accelerate their restoration efforts. For example, IUCN has supported the development and implementation of landmarking  GCF/GEF projects in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Rwanda. IUCN has recently concluded an integrated water resource management project (Sebeya) that has seen a successful application of the community-centric restoration model in Rwanda and is expected to inform the development or implementation of several other projects including: AREECA, COMBIO  and TREPA in Rwanda, The scaling up of the Sebeya in the Rusizi basin ( Rwanda, Burundi and DRC)

• COP 26 was in Glasgow was dubbed “Nature COP”. 137 countries committed to collectively end forest loss and land degradation by 2030 and a total of $19.2 billion was pledged to help protect and restore forests globally. Have these ambitions been followed through with commitments by the countries and non-state actors that signed Glasgow Leaders’ Declaration On Forests and Land Use

In terms of making the funds a reality, very little has been realized and I think these were the same sentiments expressed by African Leaders during the recently held ACS in Nairobi.

• Rwanda has one of the highest forest cover in Eastern Africa with at least 30.4% of the country covered with Forest. What has been the key to this success and what role is IUCN playing in ensuring drought-degraded landscapes in Northern and Eastern provinces of Rwanda are restored?

IUCN is very proud to have been a key partner toward the realization of Rwanda’s 30.4% forest cover.

Rwanda’s ambitious commitment to environmental protection is a major success factor. Starting from setting ambitious national targets {such as tree cover through Vision 2020   and Bonn Challenge by 2030 } speaks for itself. Other success factors include; a responsive policy and governance framework, a cross-sectoral coordination that encourages synergies, and continuous innovation for example with with recent development and adoption of a community-centric restoration model, Village Land Use Plans, and Catchment Restoration Approach. Rwanda is also keen on the use of data and science in developing local solutions. For example in all restoration projects Rwanda has been using ROAM in baselining its restoration projects and setting up restoration targets. Rwanda is known to have been the 1^st country in Africa ( 2014) to deploy ROAM in restoration planning and thereafter radiating the application into several countries in Africa.

In terms of restoration monitoring, Rwanda was the first country to apply the Restoration Barometer and has since then revamped its local monitoring framework DFMP-FMES well aligned with the Restoration Barometer Globa framework.

In 2019, the government of Rwanda together with IUCN undertook a  national forest cover mapping exercise which reported a  30.4% forest cover from a previous cover of about 16% a  decade before.  Additionally, IUCN has supported ground-breaking efforts in developing the country’s soil erosion control analytics which allows the government to address soil erosion challenges at a plot level.

In our continued efforts to support the government of Rwanda, IUCN is implementing a number of projects including the just Sebeya (22m EUR), AREECA (4.3m EUR), COMBIO (8.9m EUR), TREPA (33m USD), and others.

• What should businesses do to halt forest loss associated with agricultural commodity production of crops like Sugarcane, Tea, and Palm oil in Africa that have been dubbed import substitution ventures by Governments?

We cannot ignore the factor of low production/supply of raw materials in these issues. This is largely due to a decline in soil fertility.  Going forward the companies need to invest more in soil fertility to ensure sustainable production and hence business sustainability. By NbS and investing along supply chains, the companies can improve/maximize production and will consequently encourage reduced exploitation of more lands hence reducing deforestation and emission. IUCN has been engaging private businesses in the region in developing nature-positive business models that are profitable and sustainable. For example, between 2019 and 2021 IUCN engaged Kilombero Sugarcane Company in Tanzania to develop a business case where the sugarcane company would invest in nature through NbS to improve water yield and soil health thus maximizing production and avoiding further deforestation through expansion of out-growers.

• How is IUCN Kenya Portfolio in line with Government of Kenya goal of growing 15 billion trees by 2030, mobilizing climate change financing and empowering communities through nature based solutions?

Through the development and implementation of various projects and providing the necessary technical assistance IUCN is keen on supporting Kenya’s ambitious efforts on 15 billion trees. Currently, IUCN is working with the government on a number of projects including; the 30m USD GCF project in 11 counties and 6m GEF project in 2 counties. Others include; a 3m coastal resilience project known as Save Our Mangrove Now (SOMN)  and an IWRM project known as Sustainable Transformational and Accessible Water Interventions (STAWI) funded by DANIDA. IUCN continues to provide the necessary technical support on restoration assessment and monitoring both at national and subnational levels.

• The African Climate Change Summit that will be held in Nairobi in September 2023 comes at a time when the African continent has been hit hard by weather related disasters like prolonged drought in the horn of Africa and Cyclones in Southern Africa. What issues should the African countries discuss and resolve as a team before they head to COP 28 in DUBAI?

Carbon taxation, Loss and Damage facility, annual climate finance, and several other announcements in the previous COPS are great steps toward climate justice. However African leaders need to understand that there are no legally binding commitments and therefore a need to do more in terms of financing and actions around mitigation and adaptation. We have had so many commitments in the past and many of them to this end have not been kept. I believe there is a reason and needs to be discussed further. But before ha, in my respectful opinion, Africa needs to develop a well-structured and investment-attractive financing mechanism that doesn’t just pay for damage but brings justice to all.

• The youth and women in Africa have been severely affected by climate change. What opportunities can they tap in to ensure they become resilient and does IUCN have facilities that can support nature-based enterprises managed by women and youth in Africa?

Indeed gender equality is key when we all about climate change, biodiversity, desertification and degradation, and other sustainable development spheres.

Unfortunately, our youths and women have for far too long been victims of climate disasters primarily because of the imbalance around land rights and land use men are historically and in large proportion man as seen as the authority and thaw one and youth have to take a back seat and watch. In other words, they are rarely involved in the conversation about land use and land rights.

Cognizant of his imbalance, IUCN has been keen on mainstreaming gender-transformative and responsive mechanisms in all its programmes. For example within the land systems programme, IUCN has developed gender-responsive FLR guidelines outlining Gender Golden Procedures to ensure the voice and role of women and youths throughout the restoration process – from the restoration assessment to actual implementation.

IUCN has also developed innovative financing mechanisms models, such as CECF that continue to enable access finance to for women and vulnerable groups and encourage bio-enterprising a the community level. The model has so far me rolled out in Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

PARTING SHOT

Climate distros are not waiting for us. Unfortunately, we have taken much time talking and planning yet we all know the dangers of climate change and time is ticking fast! As the UN sec general said sometime back, we need more actions than talk. This is the only way we can move forward.

‘’Humanity is using 1.6 times the amount of services that nature can provide’’ (UNEP, 2021)[i]

‘’Restoring degraded lands locks the carbon in the atmosphere in the soil. It also improves soil health, and increases the diversity of plants, animals and other species’’ (G20 Global Land Initiative)[ii].

1. INTRODUCTION

Climate change is a global phenomenon that affects the whole world. No continent is spared. Like the Covid19 pandemic, climate change does not consider the level of wealth of nations or the color of the skin of their populations or ownership of any technological advancement. Several major international meetings have been organized to discuss climate issues and tried to find lasting solutions.

In 2015, 195 member countries of the United Nations adopted a new global agreement called the Paris Agreement (COP 21) under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Developed countries, emerging countries and developing countries in Africa, Asia and Latin America have agreed to make commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions for the well-being of the planet and its people. At the African level, several initiatives have been undertaken by the African Union (AU), the African Development Bank (AfDB) and sub-regional organizations such as the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS), the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to mobilize the resources needed to increase the resilience capacities of African countries in order to promote sustainable development and guarantee the social, economic and political stability of the various countries.

In 2007, the African Union launched the Great Green Wall Initiative (GGWI) aimed at fighting against climate change and transforming millions of lives in the Sahel[iii]. Its ambition is to sequester 250 million tons of carbon and create 10 million green jobs by 2030[iv].  Moreover, the African Union Development Agency-New Partnership for African Development (AUDA-NEPAD) is implementing the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100) launched in December 2015 at COP21 in Paris. The main argument of this manuscript is that forest landscape restoration (FLR) and the AFR100 initiative contribute to combating climate and land use change in Africa because they address several challenges such as deforestation and land degradation; biodiversity loss; climate crisis; poverty; food insecurity; high level of unemployment for local communities including women and youth.  A scientific article published in the journal Conservation Biology shows that FLR contributes to climate and biodiversity goals[v]. In addition, restoring degraded forests and lands represent a strategic and cost-effective option for meeting national and global climate and biodiversity goals[vi].

This manuscript aims to:

a) Discuss the paradox of climate change for African countries;

b) Provide a brief description of the African Forest Landscape Restoration Initiative (AFR100) and its links with ongoing regional and international initiatives.

c) Discuss few mitigation and adaptation actions drawing on the AFR100 approach which aims, to reduce, among others, the rate of deforestation and the negative impacts of climate change while improving food security and reducing poverty. The ultimate goal being to improve policies on climate and land use change in AFR100 member countries.

d) Discuss the impacts of Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) at local, national, regional and international levels.

2. THE PARADOX OF CLIMATE CHANGE AND ITS IMPACT ON AFRICAN COUNTRIES

 The paradox of climate change is that the least industrialized countries such as African countries, which emit less greenhouse gases, are the most exposed and therefore the most vulnerable. According to the African Development Bank[vii] , every year Africa loses between 5% and 15% of its Gross Domestic Products (GDP) because of climate change. The effects of climate change are, among others, the irregularity of the seasons, excess heat, the rise in the level of the oceans leading to floods and coastal erosion, the increase in drought, the decline in agricultural productivity, the deterioration of the health of populations, the increase in greenhouse gases caused by deforestation and degradation due to human activities, the loss of biodiversity, the increase in food and nutritional insecurity for populations, disruption of the transport system and market supply (especially in flooded areas), and reduction of tourist activities.

It therefore appears that climate change affects several sectors such as agriculture, forests and the environment, urban planning and housing, water and sanitation, energy, health, transport, tourism, industry, economy and trade. This is why the active engagement and use of a multi-stakeholder and multi-sectoral approach is very appropriate for the fight against the effects of climate and land use change. Therefore, restoration under the AFR100 initiative is very appropriate in combating climate and land use change while improving the livelihoods of rural communities. 

3. THE AFRICAN FOREST LANDSCAPE RESTORATION INITIATIVE (AFR100)

The AFR100 Initiative was launched in December 2015 to address the environmental, social and economic challenges that affect the sustainable management of natural resources in Africa. It is a Pan-African initiative implemented at the national level by 34 African countries and growing in collaboration with 39 technical partners and 13 financial partners. Its main objective is to restore 100 million hectares of degraded lands and forests by 2030. Currently the 34 countries have committed to restore 129.5 million hectares, which means that the initial commitment has been exceeded by 29.5 million hectares. Forest Landscape Restoration (FLR) is a process that restores ecosystem services and landscape functionality, boosts and stabilizes land use productivity, and enhances resilience to climate change through the restoration of degraded forests and lands (WRI, NEPAD, BMZ, World Bank, undated)[viii].

At the regional level, the AFR100 initiative contributes to the African Initiative of Resilient Landscapes (ARLI); the African Union Agenda 2063; the Action Plan for African Landscape (ALAP); the African Great Green Wall Initiative (GGWI). At the international level, the AFR100 initiative contributes to the Bonn Challenge; the Paris Agreement on Climate; the New York Declaration on Forests; the United Nations Decade on Ecosystem Restoration; the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN); and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially SDGs 1, 2, 3, 6, 8, 11, 12, 13, 15, 17.

The second phase of the AFR100 initiative (2022-2026) put a major emphasis on the acceleration of forest landscape restoration on the ground to help countries meet their pledges by 2030. That is why smallholder farmers, communities, minorities, marginalized groups, women and youth entrepreneurs and associations have a major role to play during this phase.

4. MITIGATION ACTIONS TO COMBAT CLIMATE AND LAND USE CHANGE THROUGH RESTORATION

The mitigation activities to combat climate and land use change aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Indeed, since the industrial revolution, the greenhouse effect has been amplified by the release of large quantities of gas (carbon dioxide or CO2) into the atmosphere due to the massive use of fossil fuels such as oil, coal, natural gas; deforestation; landfilling; and certain environmentally destructive agricultural and industrial practices[ix]. To mitigate the effects of climate change, policies aimed at carbon sequestration and the long-term storage of carbon dioxide outside the atmosphere should be promoted. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions is one of the measures envisaged to achieve the commitments of the Paris Agreement on the climate[x]. The following actions are needed to strengthen the climate change mitigation programs in AFR100 countries in order to sequester more carbon:

a) Introducing trees with high absorption capacity of carbon dioxide

African countries members of the AFR100 initiative should explore the introduction of the imperial tree, the Paulownia (Pawlownia tomentosa) which can absorb 10 times more CO2 (carbon dioxide) than many trees. In addition, it cleans the air much faster. It is a fast growing tree native to China that is planted all over Asia and Australia[xi]. It should be noted, however, that all trees capture carbon dioxide, which is why the concept of growing trees must replace that of planting trees. The cultivation of trees includes the act of planting as well as the monitoring and management of all the steps downstream until maturation for the total success of the operation. Existing trees should also be maintained. Few trees with high carbon sequestration potential found in AFR100 countries are Rosewood (Dalbergia latifolia or Acacia excelsa), Moabi (Baillonella toxisperma), Bush mango (Irvingia gabonensis and Irvingia wombolu), Bubinga (Guibourtia tessmannii), Fraké (Terminalia superba), Iroko (Milicia excelsa), Azobe (Lophira alata), Njanssang (Ricinodendron heudelotii), Gum arabic (Acacia senegal), Desert date or Soumpe (Balanites aegyptiaca), Baobab (Adansonia digitata), Shea butter (Vitellaria paradoxa), and Moringa (Moringa oleifera). With the availability of all these trees in AFR100 countries, one wonders why Africa still has several climate challenges? In particular, AFR100 countries in the Sahel should get involved in massive planting of baobab, shea butter and moringa trees to accelerate the fight against climate change.

AFR100 technical partners like CIFOR-ICRAF are playing an important role in this direction by boosting the availability and access to high quality planting materials thereby contributing to the restoration of degraded forest and lands and improving food security and nutrition. For example, the CIFOR-ICRAF What to Plant Where in Ethiopia portal allows stakeholders to find suitable tree species and their best matching seed sources at any planting locations in Ethiopia[xii]. Developing similar portals in other AFR100 countries will be very beneficial for the AFR100 initiative.

b) The increase in the number of protected forests

The decisions of public authorities in AFR100 countries to increase the number of protected forests fit well into the strategy of mitigating and anticipating the effects of climate change. In Senegal, protected areas represent 26.39 percent of the total land area in 2022[xiii]. In Cameroon, protected areas represent 10.98 percent of total land area in 2022[xiv]. In Gabon, protected areas represent 22.44 percent of total land area in 2022[xv]. The increase in the number of protected forests at national level is achieved by discussing with all the actors concerned to get full appropriation and ownership by the populations. The Paulownia tree and other tree species (mentioned above) that have a very high carbon dioxide absorption capacity should be promoted in protected forests to create several carbon sinks in Africa.

c) Reforestation, tree cultivation in urban and semi-urban areas and the creation of green cities

Mayors and local authorities should be mobilized to support tree planting along the various roads and in public spaces in their constituencies as part of the promotion of urban and peri- urban forests and the creation of green cities. The relevant sectoral ministries should also be sensitized for tree planting along highways and certain roads that are not in the administrative domain of mayors and local authorities. Elementary schools, high schools, vocational schools and universities must be included. Campaigns should be organized using the media to raise awareness among rural and urban populations, including youth, on the importance of trees in the fight against climate change and the conservation of biodiversity. In Senegal, youth represent 76 percent of the population[xvi] which is an important demographic dividend to combat the negative effects of climate and land use change.

d) Restoration to increase soil fertility

Soil fertility has a positive effect on carbon sequestration. Promoting agroforestry activities by integrating nitrogen-fixing legumes into existing farming systems is a good approach to promote in AFR100 countries. Legumes such as Gum arabic (Acacia senegal), Caliandra (Caliandra colothyrsus), Leucaena (Leucaena leucocephala), Cadd (Acacia albida), and Neem (Azadirachta indica)[xvii] will increase soil fertility and carbon sequestration to combat climate change.

A GIZ project in the Far North Region of Cameroon has restored the fertility of degraded lands that were no longer productive, and which were abandoned by local communities or landscape actors. In collaboration with the Ministry of Forest and Wildlife (MINFOF) and the Ministry of Environment, Nature Protection and Sustainable Development (MINEPDED) of Cameroon, GIZ helped local local communities restore those unproductive lands in 2 years by using traditional technics and producing compost with organic manure mixed with Crotalaria retusa, Bracharia spp. and Mucuna pruriens.  In addition, tree planting has been initiated through the project to enable local communities protect watersheds, get fuelwood for cocking and non-timber forest products such as Gum arabic (Acacia spp.), neem (Azadirachta indica) and cashew (Anacardium occidentale) to enhance soil fertility and increase their revenues. With the project, local communities valorize biomass for livestock feed instead of burning it as it was done in the past[xviii].

e) Sustainable Cocoa Farming

In Ghana, smallholder cocoa farmers are improving yields and mitigating climate change at the same time by developing sustainable cocoa value chains that reduce emission from deforestation and forest degradation across 6 million hectares using shade cocoa trees and by improving farming practices and land use decisions. With support from the World Bank’s Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF), Ghana is generating high quality, high integrity jurisdictional carbon credits to achieve its climate goals and get access to international carbon markets[xix]. 

5. ADAPTATION ACTIONS TO COMBAT CLIMATE AND LAND USE CHANGE THROUGH RESTORATION

Adaptation is any action to support and enhance the ability to resist to the negative impacts of climate change[xx]. Resilience to climate change makes it possible to cushion the climate shock and find opportunities for innovation and opening up new paths that increase the ability to adapt to these changes[xxi]. The following activities will strengthen the climate change adaptation activities in AFR100 countries:

a) Production of several varieties of seeds that are drought resistant while increasing agricultural yields

National research institutes in AFR100 countries should be more encouraged to develop new varieties of seeds that are resistant to climate change. These varieties should be multiplied and disseminated widely at national level to increase agricultural production and resilience, improve food security and reduce food imports. Drought tolerant crops are already produced in several AFR100 countries such as Kenya, Malawi, Zambia, Nigeria, Senegal, Niger, Sudan, South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Tanzania[xxii], to name a few.

b) Compliance with technical itineraries and the agricultural calendar

Compliance with sowing periods, fertilizer spreading and plowing helps to increase agricultural yields. It is unfortunate to note that agricultural extension has been reduced significantly in Africa as a result of Structural Adjustment Programs (SAP) imposed by the World Bank (WB) and the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

c) Diversification of Agricultural activities (agriculture, livestock, fishery and aquaculture, agroforestry, forestry, and floriculture) to increase resilience to climate change

Beyond the innovations made in agricultural production, livestock, fishery and aquaculture, rural communities should be encouraged, especially women and youth, to further diversify their sources of income by getting involved in the value chains of forest food products such as Sweet Detar or ditakh (Detarium senegalense), moringa (Moringa oleifera), baobab (Adansonia digitata), cashew (Anacardium occidental), maracuja or Passion fruit (Passiflora edulis) etc., and floriculture. The Forestry departments in AFR100 countries should produce at scale several varieties of seedlings which will be distributed and planted by rural communities. However, to ensure a high survival rate of the trees planted, the Forestry Departments should sign contracts with the rural communities for the maintenance and monitoring of the trees and in return, give them a commercial use right to market the fruits of the trees while ensuring the preservation of the trees themselves. Thus, rural communities will have the right to consume and market the fruits of the trees planted to meet their basic needs, which will motivate them more for the monitoring and maintenance of the trees and will increase their capacity of resilience. Such an activity will contribute to both mitigation and adaptation to climate change.

e) Digital innovation to protect women producers to climate risk

Innovation Norway, United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF) and UN women support digital projects in Mali and Senegal to strengthen the resilience of women producers to disaster risk and climate change[xxiii].

6. PROJECTED IMPACTS OF FOREST LANDSCAPE RESTORATION AT LOCAL, NATIONAL, REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVELS

61. Impacts at local, national and regional levels

At local, national and regional levels, the restoration of degraded forests and lands under the AFR100 initiative will achieve the following:

i) Increase in forest cover and carbon sequestration to combat climate change;

ii) Increase in biomass;

iii) Increase in biological diversity through enriching species diversity, faunal species. The Ministry of Environment, Sustainable Development and Ecological Transition (MEDDTE) of Senegal through the Senegalese Agency for Reforestation and the Great Green Wall (ASERGMV), has engaged in massive planting of date trees in Northern Senegal due to favorable climate conditions. Through this strategy the country will increase its biological diversity and economic well-being by reducing the imports of dates and the development of the national markets[xxiv]. In Senegal, dates are consumed in large quantity during the fasting period of Ramadan.

iv) Improvement in soil fertility [(see section 4, d) above], ecosystems and ecological functions of the forests;

v) Improvement in air and water quality;

vi) Reduction in dust and the health of populations, especially in the drylands of Africa;

vii) Increase in employment opportunities for rural communities by providing green jobs to women, youth and marginalized groups;

viii) Increase in incomes and prosperity in rural areas;

ix) Improvement in food security and nutrition;

x) Contribution to healthy diets;

xi) Reduction in gender inequality and more autonomy for women;

xii) Reduction in the discrimination against marginalized groups.

62. Impacts at international level

i) Reduction in global warming, flooding, droughts, forest fires;

ii) Increase in biological diversity, ecosystem structure, function and services;

iii) Improvement in population health and well-being;

iv) Increase in carbon sequestration, biomass and carbon trading.

7. CONCLUSIONS

Climate change is a real phenomenon that affects the planet and will continue to threaten all continents and all regions of the world. For this reason, African countries, members of the AFR100 initiative through the restoration of degraded forests and lands are developing an important capacity of anticipation by implementing mitigation and adaptation programs to fight against the global warming of the planet. Through its impacts at local, national, regional and global levels, the restoration of degraded forests and lands contributes to combating climate change, improving biological biodiversity, reducing poverty and improving the food and nutrition security of populations.

Therefore, the collaboration between the AFR100 initiative and all the regional and global initiatives mentioned in this manuscript must be strengthened in order to obtain a win-win partnership with tangible environmental, social and economic benefits to improve human well-being and the health of the planet.

END NOTES

[1] Ousseynou Ndoye, PhD

Agricultural and Forest Economist.

AFR100 Regional Coordinator for West and Central Africa.

[2] Mamadou Diakhité

Manager of the AFR100 Secretariat and Head of Climate Change & Environment and Sustainability (CC&ESD) Division, AUDA-NEPAD.

[3] Sheryl Quail, PhD

AFR100 Monitoring

[4] Meseret Shiferaw

AFR100 Regional Coordinator for East and Southern Africa.

[5] Teko Nhlapo

Communication Officer AUDA-NEPAD/AFR100 Secretariat

[6] Edna Kalima,

Gender specialist, AUDA-NEPAD/AFR100 Secretariat

[7] Benjamin Akobundu

AFR100 Lead, AUDA-NEPAD/AFR100 Secretariat

[8] Diana Mawoko

AFR100 Secretariat and World Resources Institute

[9] Edith Maboumba

AFR100 Secretariat

[i] United Nations Environment Programme (2021). Becoming #Generation Restoration: Ecosystem restoration for people, nature and climate. Nairobi.

[ii] https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:7089877095127859200?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_android

[iii] https://www.unccd.int/our-work/ggwi

[iv] https://www.unccd.int/our-work/ggwi

[v] https://phys.org/news/2023-08-degraded-forests-under-appreciated-climate-solution.html; Rayden, T., Jones, K.R., Austin, K., and Radachowsky, J. (2023). Improving climate and biodiversity outcomes through restoration of forest integrity. Conservation Biology, e14163, pp. 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.14163.

[vi] https://phys.org/news/2023-08-degraded-forests-under-appreciated-climate-solution.html; Rayden, T., Jones, K.R., Austin, K., and Radachowsky, J. (2023). Improving climate and biodiversity outcomes through restoration of forest integrity. Conservation Biology, e14163, pp. 1-11. https://doi.org/10.1111/cobi.14163.

[vii] https://www.senenews.com/actualites/lafrique-perd-chaque-an-15-de-son-pib-par-habitant-bad_417047.html

[viii] World Resources Institute (WRI), New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation Development (BMZ), and the World Bank (undated). African Forest Landscape Initiative, Overview.

[ix] http://www.environnement.gouv.qc.ca/air/questce-ges.htm.

[x] https://www.apc-paris.com/cop-21#:~:text=L’Accord%20de%20Paris%20qui,C%20d’ici%20%C3%A0%202100.

[xi] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paulownia_tomentosa.

[xii] CIFOR-ICRAF (2023). CIFOR-ICRAF Annual Report 2022 : Interconnected : Trees, people, planet. Bogor, Indonesia : Center for International Forestry Research (CIFOR) and Nairobi, Kenya : World Agroforestry Center (ICRAF), 20 pp.

[xiii] https://tradingeconomics.com/senegal/terrestrial-protected-areas-percent-of-total-land-area-wb-data.html

[xiv] https://tradingeconomics.com/cameroon/terrestrial-protected-areas-percent-of-total-land-area-wb-data.html

[xv] https://tradingeconomics.com/gabon/terrestrial-protected-areas-percent-of-total-land-area-wb-data.html

[xvi] http://french.xinhuanet.com/2021-04/22/c_139899321.htm

[xvii] https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/01811789.1988.10826901.

[xviii] https://youtu.be/wIVNQzJNHJU

[xix] http://wrld.bg/hEHP50PgvQm

[xx] Comment préparer des projets bancables pour financer l’adaptation au changement climatique dans les bassins transfrontières, Dakar, Sénégal, 21-23 juin 2017.

[xxi] Comment préparer des projets bancables pour financer l’adaptation au changement climatique dans les bassins transfrontières, Dakar, Sénégal, 21-23 juin 2017.

[xxii] https://www.icrisat.org/farmers-in-tanzania-urged-to-embrace-drought-tolerant-crops/

[xxiii] https://www.uncdf.org/article/8299/protger-les-productrices-du-mali-et-du-sngal-face-aux-risques-climatiques-grce-aux-innovations-digitales

[xxiv] https://laviesenegalaise.com/implantation-de-dattiers-dans-le-nord-est-du-pays-aly-haidar-veut-que-le-senegal-produise-ses-propres-dattes/

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has concluded that to avert catastrophic health impacts and prevent millions of climate change-related deaths, the world must limit temperature rise to 1.5°C. Past emissions have already made a certain level of global temperature rise and other changes to the climate inevitable. Global heating of even 1.5°C is not considered safe, however; every additional tenth of a degree of warming will take a serious toll on people’s lives and health.

While no one is safe from these risks, the people whose health is being harmed first and worst by the climate crisis are the people who contribute least to its causes, and who are least able to protect themselves and their families against it – people in low-income and disadvantaged countries and communities[1]. The burning of fossil fuels, deforestation, and other human activities are releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which is causing the planet to warm.  One major contributor to climate change is the production and pollution of plastics.

Every year, millions of tons of plastic end up in our oceans, rivers, and lakes. This plastic pollution not only harms wildlife, but it also contributes to climate change.  When plastic is exposed to sunlight, it breaks down into smaller pieces called microplastics. Microplastics can be ingested by marine animals, which can then be eaten by humans. Microplastics can also absorb toxins from the environment, which can then be passed up the food chain.  In addition, plastic pollution can also contribute to climate change by releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, into the atmosphere. Plastic pollution has become a global concern for ecosystem health and biodiversity conservation. Concentrations of plastics are manifold higher in the terrestrial system than the aquatic one. Micro/nanoplastics (M/NP) can alter soil enzymatic system, soil properties and also affect soil borne microorganisms and earthworms[2].

Climate change and plastic pollution are two of the most pressing environmental issues facing our planet today. Both are caused by human activity, and both have far-reaching consequences. Climate change is caused by the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, which traps heat and causes the planet to warm. Plastic pollution is caused by the production, use, and disposal of plastic products. Plastic can take hundreds of years to decompose, and it can pollute our oceans, waterways, and beaches.  Climate change and plastic pollution are interconnected in several ways. First, the production of plastic products releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere. Second, plastic pollution can contribute to climate change by releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas, when it breaks down. Third, plastic pollution can harm marine life, which can disrupt the food chain and lead to changes in the ocean’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide[3].

• Climate change and plastic pollution: A symbiotic threats to Human health

Climate change and plastic pollution are two of the most pressing environmental issues facing our planet today. Both are caused by human activity, and both have far-reaching consequences for human health.  Climate change is the long-term alteration of temperature and typical weather patterns in a place. Climate change could refer to a particular location or the planet. Climate change may cause weather patterns to be less predictable[4]. A region might experience lower or higher than average temperatures. Climate change may cause more frequent and severe weather events, such as storms, floods, and droughts.  Plastic pollution is the accumulation of plastic objects in the environment. Plastic pollution can be found in all parts of the environment, including the ocean, land, and air. Plastic pollution can have several negative impacts on human health.  One way that climate change and plastic pollution are linked is through the release of greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases are gases that trap heat in the atmosphere, causing the planet to warm. Plastic pollution can contribute to the release of greenhouse gases when plastic is burned or when it breaks down in the environment.  Another way that climate change and plastic pollution are linked is through the impact on human health[5]. Climate change can lead to several health problems, including heat stroke, dehydration, and respiratory problems. Plastic pollution can also lead to several health problems, including cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders.  The combination of climate change and plastic pollution poses a serious threat to human health. It is important to take action to address both issues to protect human health. 

How are climate change and plastic pollution interlinked? The production, conversion and waste management of plastics generate about 4% of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Of these, 90% can be attributed to the production and conversion stage of the plastics lifecycle. Most plastics are currently produced with fossil fuels (93%). The amounts made from recycled plastics are 6% and the remainder are biobased plastics. Substituting biobased plastics for fossil-based plastic production would lead to a direct GHG emissions decrease. However, the production of biobased plastics requires additional land leading to GHG emissions related to deforestation. Waste management practices also affect the GHG intensity of plastics via their end-of-life treatment. In 2019, emissions from incineration accounted for 70% of total end-of-life emissions while those from recycling accounted for 22%. Recycling plastics reduces GHG emissions by lowering the demand for primary plastics, which have a higher carbon footprint[6].

• Conclusion: Need for an integral approach

To address climate change and plastic pollution, we need to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and plastic products. We need to invest in renewable energy sources and sustainable materials. We also need to change our consumption habits and reduce our waste.

An integrated approach is needed to address climate change and plastic pollution. This approach must include a focus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, increasing the use of renewable energy, and improving waste management practices.  One way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to transition to a clean energy economy. This means investing in renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and making our homes and businesses more energy-efficient. Another way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels. This means driving less, flying less, and eating less meat. We can also help to reduce plastic pollution by reducing our use of plastic products. This means bringing our own reusable bags to the grocery store, avoiding single-use plastics, and recycling plastic whenever possible.  Finally, we need to improve waste management practices to ensure that plastic does not end up in our oceans or landfills. This means investing in recycling and composting programs and reducing the amount of waste we produce.  By taking these steps, we can help to address climate change and plastic pollution and create a more sustainable future for our planet.

The production and pollution of plastics is a major contributor to climate change. However, there are a number of things that can be done to reduce plastic production and pollution, and help mitigate the effects of climate change. By working together, we can create a more sustainable future for our planet.

[1] https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/climate-change-and-health

[2] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/gcb.15074

[3]  Global Plastics Outlook: Policy Scenarios to 2060 (OECD, 2022)

[4] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0160412021005171

[5] https://www.cell.com/iscience/pdf/S2589-0042(23)01726-1.pdf

[6] Ibd

Reflections from the Africa Climate Week

(Image 1: front pic Mary at the ACS)

Most typical stories start with the ambiance – or a background voice to set the tone of the conversation. In this light, I would say that it was a cold morning, when I got squished in a line in order to attend the official opening of the Africa Climate Summit, a humbling moment indeed, similarly experienced when collecting my badge. However, the important question to ask is why was I there?

As part of the COP28 International Youth Climate Delegate Program, I was afforded the opportunity to attend the Africa Climate Week (ACW), Africa Climate Summit (ACS) and the African Youth Climate Assembly (AYCA). It was a challenging week of attending sessions, networking and getting to visualize my role in the climate space while supporting my community and country. My passion is formed from seeing the thunderous reality of climate change effects on African nations which are vulnerable. From floods, to landslides, raising temperatures and seas, all these realities are close to my heart, especially coming from a coastal community in the beautiful shores of the Kenyan Indian Ocean.

Before – on road to the ACS

It is important to point out the interesting events that took place before the summit. These events, though may be easily dismissed, should be highly considered in looking overall at the preparation of African countries’ position on the upcoming United Nation Climate Change Conference – Conference of Parties 28,  (COP28).

One, there was major concern on the summit being seized by western governments and philanthropic organizations in pushing for the western narrative  with others terming solutions like carbon markets as ineffective solutions. Civil society organizations urged the summit to take a significant stance for the continent and , in Kenya, published a  non- state actor demands and redlines which urged for standing by the principles of climate justice, human rights, gender equality, and intergenerational equity; committing to a just and equitable transition of renewable energy; fulfilling of historical responsibility as required of developed nations; advancing collective accountability in African leadership and African people to be put above all interests.

(Image 2: caption – youth activist from Kibera, advocating for his community)

Two, the AYCA took place for three days before the ACS. It brought together youth from different African regions and culminated in a youth declaration which simply emphasized youth recognition, participation and inclusion in the climate change space. The declaration specifically noted that “Africa has the youngest population in the world, with 70% of sub-Saharan Africa’s population under the age of 30, and that by 2030, young Africans are expected to constitute 42% of global youths, hence African continent can reap from this demographic dividend in the shaping of the green growth agenda.”  However, gaps that were apparent were in the inclusion of youth from other African countries in the Assembly participation, and inadequate preparation for the assembly in terms of where sessions were taking place and access to required badges to access the venue.

During the ACS

The COP28 is right on the corner with countries preparing to participate in the party processes on the issue of climate change. Key topics in this COP include fast – tracking the energy transition, transforming climate finance, putting nature, people, lives and livelihoods at the heart of climate action, and mobilizing for an inclusive COP. The ACW is one of the regional climate weeks that took place in preparation for the COP 28. It was held from September 4th to 8th in Nairobi Kenya. The ACS happened parallel to the ACW but it ended on the 6th. The ACW had thematic focuses on Energy systems and industry, Cities, Urban and Rural settlements, Infrastructure and Transport, Land, Ocean, Food and Water, and Societies, Health, Livelihoods and Economies.

In developing a roadmap for a sustainable future, I believe that the ACS brought together African leaders, youth, communities, academia, scientists, and activists in an effort to embody the spirit of partnership, and dedication to tackle and provide solutions to climate change concerns. Because Africa is the most vulnerable to the effects of climate change and contributes the least, it must be the centre of focus in demonstrating its ingenuity, adaptation techniques, and willingness to confront the ever-increasing risks posed by climate change. Furthermore, the conference emphasized the essential role of youth in raising awareness and consistently working on climate change issues. The ACS was a clear call for swift action to ensure a greener future for current and future generations.

What happened?

The summit mostly focused its attention on carbon markets, with sessions ranging from expanding Africa’s role in voluntary carbon markets, accelerating carbon markets supply, harnessing Africa’s renewable energy potential and nature based solutions.

Participants from diverse backgrounds explored the interconnectedness of these two topics, potential of incentives derived from carbon markets and the role of communities, marginalized groups and the youth in implementing nature based solutions and policy involvement. Highly noted were nature-based solutions, such as afforestation, reforestation, and ecosystem restoration which contribute to both carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. Emphasis was made on having a transparent robust governance mechanism and equitable distribution of benefits especially to communities. Culminating from the series of discussions during the ACW, the Nairobi declaration was agreed by the parties.

Notably, by the time the summit was concluding, several biodiversity and nature based solutions related sessions were taking place the next few days. I believe that these sessions had invaluable learning that would have fed into the ACS.

Participating in the AYCA, ACS and ACW, provided me with an invaluable opportunity to contribute in meaningful discussions and exchange knowledge on pressing climate challenges facing the continent. With the diversity of stakeholders and participation in sessions, this shone a spotlight on the potential for innovative approaches to mitigate climate change while promoting sustainable development. Additionally, the Nairobi Declaration, with its strong commitment to climate action and financing mechanisms, sets a promising path forward for Africa though further actions need to be done. By attending the events, I gained valuable insights and strategies which will enable me to contribute to the global effort in tackling climate change, specifically in strengthening protection mechanisms on biodiversity and enhancing inclusive participation in the law and policy making process across the continent. I hope that lessons learned shall be translated into concrete actions and partnerships in the pursuit of a sustainable.

About Mary

Mary is a young, and dynamic attorney-at-law with a deep-seated commitment to environment, climate and wildlife protection, as well as good governance. Her legal and advocacy work on climate and environmental sustainability have ingrained her belief in the importance of protecting the world’s natural resources and enhancing the accountability systems in place. She is the co-founder and coordinator of EcoEngage, a newly established dedicated platform that aims to increase awareness and educate individuals on environmental policies, striving to create a positive impact on nature and wildlife. She is also the legal specialist at Biophilic Conversations and TonyWild Foundation, utilizing her expertise to make a difference in the world.

 [WU1]This part goes just before the paragrapgh “During the ACS”

A COP of Actions?

unite. Act. Deliver: A COP of Actions?

My Experience at COP 28

What took me to COP – Afrika Youth Caravan to COP28, key messages

The 28th session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) took place in Dubai, UAE from November 30th to December 12th, 2023. Themed; Unite, Act, Deliver – the focus was largely on how the world can together move into a just world, with ambitious action on climate leadership, delivering loss and damage fund for the world’s majority, aka Global South, and serious actions on nature, food sovereignty, water, Health and soil funds.

The Conference also marked the world’s first Global StockTake (GST), established under the Paris agreement as a periodic rate card that shows how countries are performing in regards to commitments to abate the climate crisis.

I attended the COP28 as the project lead for the Afrika Youth Caravan to COP28. As a build up of last year’s caravan where we took 21 youth across Afrika to Sharm-El-Sheik, this year we leveraged on the power of digital campaigns and films to carry impact messaging on the need to invest in youth solutions, deliver just energy transitions, operationalise loss and damage, and get actions on Nature-based Solutions, Resilience and Adaptation. See more about the caravan here.

Role of the youth:

The youth are forming a growing proportion of the world’s population. Afrika alone is already the world’s youngest continent, with a fast growing youth demography. So then, what role do youth leaders play in the climate space? Well, quite a lot actually. Youth have a strong energy, creativity and time to innovate and deliver on-the-ground solutions in the communities. Youth also have a key role in policy influence and decision making spaces around the climate agenda. Some notable influences around COP28 for the caravan as well as for other youth delegations were;

Side events and advocacy. The Caravan delegation hosted 6 key side events over the course of the 2 weeks of negotiations. Ranging from showcasing youth solutions, to investments in youth projects, Youth reception on Resourcing Youth Solutions, Impact Storytelling and Enhancing cross border collaborations. These sessions brought the face of Afrika’s youth as solutions bearers, and leaders in the climate, biodiversity, technology and community arena. Youth leaders organized and programmed some more impact sessions across pavilions; Extreme Hangouts, Entertainment + Culture, Climate Live, Liberia, Boreal boardroom, Columbia pavilions, Children and Youth pavilions, among others.

COPs are always seen as busy spaces, and that is true. But they also serve as important Networking avenues for amplifying youth leadership. Youth get to share the same stage and interact with heads of state, governments, investors, civil society and other constituencies. This is a rare opportunity to connect, forge partnerships and make tangible progress on solidarity building for climate action. And this is one thing COP28 did for us.

Negotiations. Youth also have a key role in influencing and participating in negotiations. This year, Kenya and many other Afrikan countries delivered increased party badges. While this did not necessarily mean full access into interventions for party submissions, it was a strong addition to access within negotiation rooms, and allowed youth to learn how the processes go, and build their confidence for the subsequent COPs.

Solutions and momentum building. Action does not actually happen at COP. Action takes place in the communities. So youth attending COPs has to be from a point of bringing the solutions, interventions and impact they have in their communities. THis should be a community building and network enhancement space that contributes to increased actions and delivering of impact at the local level.

Outcomes:

Throughout the year, a lot of focus has been put on operationalisation of the loss and damage fund, just energy transition, and global goal on Adaptation. The 2 weeks of COP saw heavy negotiations, delays and streamlining of what would be the “desired” outcome. CIvil society groups, Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLCs), Small Island Developing States (SIDS), Least Developed Countries (LDCs), pushed for a total phase out decision in the eventual text. In the end, phase out language did not surface. Instead, a COP28 text on “beginning of the end” of the fossil fuel era. Some progress for sure, as this is the 1st time mention of fossil fuel in a COP text. Though not a big success, this text puts the base for increased tight action on Phase out – when, where, timelines and urgency is needed, in future COPs. Clear timelines and accountability on phase out needs to be lobbied and put up as a text sooner than later, as the climate crisis is worsening, and further delays will only validate denials that have caused the havoc we are in.

On the Global Goal on Adaptation, some progress on doubling financing for locally-led adaptation is made, but nowhere near to what is actually needed. Adaptation financing needs to come mostly in the form of grants, and local communities who are most impacted by the climate crisis must lead in the designing and delivering of the grants formalities.

On Loss and Damage fund – about 700 million USD committed on the 1st Global Stock Take GST at COP28. This is a first good step, but to reach the minimum 100billion dollars annually for loss and damage needs clear commitments and availing of the funds. This needs to be new and additional, not part of current climate financing.

Pledges on food systems transformation, health, water, arrived at COP28. More financing was announced for these key areas that need support to abate the climate crisis. A successful pointer was agreement by parties to triple global energy capacity and double the rate of energy efficiency by 2030.

Way forward:

To me, this was one of the most progressive COPs, having attended 4 COPs to date. The organization infrastructure, logistics, sessions programming, access, everything was delivered in a better way. The final text was not what many would have wanted to see, but it is a positive step into what future we all want. Amidst all these, below are some action items that can guide us into the upcoming COP29.

1. We must influence the outcomes of the COP28 text. While recognising the need to phase out fossil fuels, the mention of an end to the fossil fuels era is a good starting point on COPs. What is needed is clear timelines now, and actual commitments by the oil producers and countries dependent on fossil fuels exploitation. We need to close the tap on fossil fuels and usher in the new wave of renewable energy.
2. We must follow the money, and ensure it goes directly to those impacted. No gatekeeping, no injustice, no lack of transparency. So many commitments on financing needed for climate action were announced at COP, and this should be tracked to the last bit. Every dime is needed, and even more needs to be availed. So, let us not tire. We must follow the money, hold accountable world leaders and people who made pledges.
3. Invest in Youth. Support youth, community and grassroots solutions. We can only successfully get out of the current crises if we recognise the power of youth, indigenous, women and local communities in delivering impact solutions. By investing and financing their solutions,we are half-way there, at solving the climate crisis. Youth is the future, and the future is now. Indigenous communities are the real guardians of our planet, having done so for so many centuries, they need to be supported, and their rights protected so as to ensure continuous guardianship of our planet.
4. Deliver Loss and Damage more, and keep filling in the gaps. The loss and damage fund should not be fronted as a favor to the world’s most vulnerable, but as a right to them for suffering the most out of a chaotic system they did not create. Avail th loss and damage financing to them without strings attached.
5. Lead on strategic campaigns that push the decisions demands stronger towards COP29. From Energy justice to food sovereignty, human rights to health, nature and biodiversity, water and education, we need to support action campaigns to ensure the momentum is maintained, and enhanced. COP29 must build up on COP28, and serious actions on fossil fuels, finance, just transition achieved!

Background

Nairobi County is heavily polluted with solid waste and an urgent intervention to address the menace is needed. We realize that since Nairobi City is a global environment capital, Kenya needs to demonstrate this leadership through proper waste management. It is inspiring when we have entities coming up with solutions rather than the usual complaints that may exacerbate the prevailing problems.

Supported by Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), Nairobi City formulated the Integrated Solid Waste Management Strategy 2011-2030 that captures 8 programmes:

1. Waste collection and transportation of segregated waste
2. Resource recovery
3. Sustainable final disposal through a sanitary engineered landfill
4. Organizational restructuring and human resource development
5. Legal and institutional reform
6. Financial management
7. Private sector involvement
8. Public Participation and Promotion

Due to a myriad of challenges, the Strategy was hardly implemented. However, one of the outputs is the NCCG Solid Waste Management Act, 2015 that provides a legal framework for solid waste management in the City. This function is spelt out in Part 2 of the Fourth Schedule of the Constitution of Kenya, 2010. The Solid Waste Management Act captures:

• Colour coding, waste categorization and segregation
• Resource recovery
• Revolving fund
• Duty of care to all waste generators
• Franchise system for a robust waste collection and transportation model
• Cleaner production 
• Compliance and enforcement measures

Municipal solid waste is a by-product of our diverse day to day activities.  Strictly speaking, we are all generators of waste. Waste Management is the responsibility of everyone (including but not limited to individuals, communities, businesses, industries, institutions and Government). For this reason, the Nairobi City County Solid Waste Management Act cites Article 69 of the Constitution of Kenya; hence providing a framework to encourage public participation in the management, conservation and protection of the environment.

Status

Currently, the daily waste generated in the City is about 3,086 tonnes. As much as the UN-Habitat Survey, 2019 revealed that the waste collection rate increased to 65% from about 60% as at JICA, 2010 survey; the City was still dirty. This necessitated the transition from the linear model to the circular model in waste management. 

The city of Nairobi generates about 422 tons of plastic waste daily. 91% is collected and 9% is uncollected. Of the plastic waste collected, 49% is dumped at the final disposal site, 3% is sorted by formal sector for recovery and 28% is sorted by Informal sector Indeed the informal sector is a major player in the circular economy. About 21% of plastic waste is leaked in environment daily due to in-efficiencies of collection and management.

The table below highlights the extent of plastic waste mismanagement at various stages.

Through a circular economy model, we purpose to minimize cases of uncollected waste and maximise opportunities for formal sorting of waste.

The County waste management system is constrained and strategically requires the involvement of all waste generators to actualize separation of waste at source and separation at collection sites in order to reduce the waste taken to the final City dumpsite. 

Nairobi City County Government seeks to appropriately manage solid waste in the circular economy model. As the country transits from the linear model, Nairobi City County is the pilot in this process from which other counties will learn. In this respect, we are implementing the Sustainable Waste Management Action Plan. The purpose is to achieve a clean and healthy City, reduce cost of waste management and create jobs. The Action Plan captures six key components as listed below to be addressed in a multi-sectoral and multi-agency approach including all relevant stakeholders:

1. Education and public awareness
2. Introduction of waste separation at source
3. Upgrading waste collection and transportation logistics
4. Investing in waste recovery and final disposal
5. Strengthening governance and finance
6. Sustainable production for waste prevention

Challenges

Inadequate data and information: There is need for an accessible platform on actors in plastic waste, varieties of plastic that are recyclable and not as well as products made from plastic waste.

Inadequate public awareness and sensitization: There should be a continuous collaborative programme that should be included in the education curriculum.

Inadequate legal framework: There is need for National EPR regulations and City guidelines.

Inadequate supporting infrastructure: There is need for appropriate waste receptacles, MRFs and plastic waste processing facilities.

Inadequate incentives: There is need to harmonize waste handling legal requirements amongst lead agencies and provide green affordable authorization for sustainable plastic waste handlers.

Opportunities

Supportive stakeholders

Adoption of a circular economy model in the City is timely with the new political dispensation that is passionate about making Nairobi work.

The National Government is ready to support this process now that the Sustainable Waste Management Policy and Act were recently published.

There is an increase in green funding opportunities for sustainable waste management initiatives.

Nairobi has a robust private sector that is zealous about circular economy. They have challenged NCCG as they take the lead.

There is a growing capacity building space allowing practitioners to be well informed and skilled.

Existing legal framework

Nairobi City County Government (NCCG) has formulated a legal framework to enhance sustainable plastic waste management. 

The Solid Waste Management Act, 2015 provides for the need to segregate waste streams; plastic included. This enables recovery of more valuable plastic for reuse. The Nairobi City County Plastic Control Act, 2016 provides for the control on the manufacture, usage and disposal of plastic carry bags and other plastic products so as to maintain and restore a clean environment in the County of Nairobi City and connected purposes. In fact, this was enhanced by the National Ban on manufacture, sale and use of plastic carrier bags and flat bags for domestic and commercial packaging in Kenya, 2017. Since then there has been tremendous improvement in the cleanliness of the City. Plastic packaging was a major component of litter especially carrier bags.

Kenya has also recently, in 2019, adopted various standards for recycled plastic packaging materials with a view to not only protecting public safety and health but also to ensure environmental protection.

The use of plastic bottles, straws and related products in all national parks, national reserves, conservation areas and any other wildlife designated areas. Indeed, Nairobi hosts a number of these conserved spaces. The ban took effect on the 4^th of June 2020. 

In 2018, Nairobi actively participated in the World Habitat Day that initiated the ‘Waste-Wise-City’ campaign. In that breath, Nairobi updated its municipal solid waste data base supported by UN-Habitat. The findings revealed that Nairobi experiences about 35% of uncollected municipal waste. This is the main source of marine pollution. Actually, over 80% of plastic marine waste is from land based sources. In Kenya this results in 4.5Kg per person annual plastic leakage to water bodies exacerbating climate change effects as well as public health concerns. Nairobi County being a cosmopolitan city, definitely contributes largely to marine litter compared to other counties.

NCCG supports plastic waste recovery by authorizing eligible actors in the resource industry. They operate Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) from which plastic is the main waste stream recovered. The actors include private waste collection companies, Community Based Organizations (CBOs) and recycling companies. actors have MRFs. 

Led by the National Ministry of Environment and Forestry, Vintz Plastics- a recycling company and Nyayo Estate-residential establishment that has recovered 3.3 tons of plastics in the past 3 years were honored for their circularity in plastic waste management as the country transitions from the linear model of managing waste to the circular economy model.

NCCG has formulated a sustainable waste management action plan-the circular economy model. This will be supported by corresponding National legal framework to create a conducive environment to end plastic pollution. Already the private sector has taken initiative in the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) component by establishing Producer Responsibility Organizations; mainly composed of plastic packaging dealers at the moment. 

In light of the above, we need to explore options on sustainable plastic production because we may not be able to face out all plastic at once. Circular Economy is about smart product design to prevent waste production. This was timely for Nairobi City as we hosted UNEA5.2

Youthful and innovative entities ready to offer solutions.

A circular economy model is an avenue for job creation and investment opportunities. There is an energetic populace that is passionate about tackling societal problems with modern technology.

Almost a decade ago we founded ONISA Designs – a creative design and lifestyle company based in Nairobi, Kenya and subsequently came KIJANI GLASS.

KIJANI GLASS forms the upcycling wing of ONISA Designs, shining light on the possibilities of second chances, with KIJANI Glass we took upcycling into mainstream capitalism by transforming post-consumer glass bottles into glassware and other functional lifestyle products defined as three in one, Iconic, Functional and Purposeful. We have designed a range of products such as lighting, tableware and accessories under the KIJANI brand. Our goal is to leave a Magnus Opus Legacy.

The do WARRIORS – upcycling for environment and society, is an initiative inspired by our very own team to get things done, this initiative has been instrumental in the trailblazing dedication of cleaning up the dirty business of bottles, we rescue and refresh gin, liquor, whiskey, wine and vodka bottles from local bars and restaurants. With the future in focus as well as the universal call to action the UN Sustainable Development Goals it is our hope that society will take collective action and join us for the good of our planet. We take conscious steps in participating in hosted events to raise awareness on the importance of upcycling and waste prevention for contribution, economic potential and impact on habits.  

We urge society to take small eco-focused lifestyle changes with our 5R policy, which we expanded from the worldwide 3R policy to accommodate our business model.  Before you purchase a bottle think and RETHINK the use of not just the content but the bottle as well, REUSE the bottle in your environment and attempt for it not to get to landfill, RESCUE if you have no use for it dispose it responsibly and this is where do WARRIORS comes in after which we REFRESH the bottle and the consumer REBUYS the finished product.

Up to the minute we are also gratified to see an interest from the schools who are coming together in Kenya to educate their students on how to follow a sustainable path and we are thrilled to be a part of these discussions in which we intend to raise awareness about the cause we champion and learn about other people who enhance and add value to the environment. 

KIJANI GLASS recently received a large scale order from Banange Brewing Company and Yujo Izakaya in Kampala, Uganda and this showed us that there are businesses out there rooted in social responsibility and we are proud to already have presence in the neighboring countries and look forward to global expansion.

The opportunities in glass upcycling are bountiful, at KIJANI GLASS we have created employment opportunities in waste management, in part of our job as creators the creative intervention allows us to make products of good quality and of value whilst spreading our message regarding the environment, it is deeply satisfying to see a glass bottles that would have been disposed off enter our workshop and come out transformed reducing the amount of glass bottles going into landfill, pollution and waste.

The upcycling opportunity does not ensue without its counterpart of challenges and it is no secret that our society generates an enormous about of glass bottle waste on a daily basis whether from homes, bars and restaurants and this compound effect is leading to mammoth heaps of bottles going into landfill recognizably there are various clean-up companies that have been implemented in our society however the challenge is the bottles outweigh the collection or the land. KIJANI GLASS is making such a small change, which of course is important but a bigger and more dramatic impact is required to make a significant difference in the magnitude of the bottles going into landfill. Consumers also have the mindset that because it is upcycled it has to be cheap or even free and this is a such a serious misconception as bottle collection takes a great deal of patience, the process takes creativity, effort, time and technique. There are many people involved in each phase of the project from collection through to design and finally refreshed. The logistics of refreshed and not manufactured.

 “If we could give any advice to start up entrepreneurs who want to be responsible in their entrepreneurship would be to begin with the United Nations Blueprint of Sustainable Goals and incorporate them into your strategy and the expansion will take place from there. Then move onto making small eco-focused lifestyle changes both personally and profession as these two paths go together.

It takes time to clean up the pollution as it has been building up daily for decades and the solution will take persistence of believing in the cause, but little efforts over time will impact the environment. Adaptability is an important part of the journey as in order to effect change, you will be required to think and operate in different ways. Also, promote your work to raise awareness so that people know that you exist. To finish off, read as much as you can as this gives a clear idea and facilitates planning.

We are in this to leave the world a better place.

Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute

What are microplastics and why are they a concern

Contrary to popular opinion, microplastics (MPs) have been around since the late 1800s, when they were first discovered in soil samples. The exponential growth of plastic production has since caused the amounts of MPs particles in our environment to skyrocket. Defined by the United Nations Environment Programme as tiny plastic pellets, fragments and fibres measuring less than 5 mm in size, MPs come from a multitude of sources;, primary microplastics that are tiny particles designed for commercial use, such as toothpaste and cosmetics, as well as microfibers shed from clothing and other textiles, such as fishing nets whereas secondary microplastics are particles that result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as water bottles (Plate 1). Their small size allows them to pass through water filtration systems, resulting in their dramatic increase in the oceans and lakes where they can devastate organisms and local economies. Microplastics reach marine environments through a variety of pathways including wind, rivers, wastewater and stormwater (Plate 2). 

Plate 1: Global % contribution of microplastics sources (Source Boucher and Friot, 2017)

Plate 2: Global contribution of different microplastic pathways (Source Boucher and Friot, 2017)

Microplastics affect marine life in a variety of ways. They can be mistaken as food by unsuspecting organisms, leading to the ingestion of toxic substances and physical damage to the digestive tract of the animals as they are present in an array of colors and shapes and could potentially be mistaken as food sources. They also act as carriers of other contaminants, including microorganisms and substances, and can leach chemicals and other toxins into the food chain. MPs can also be introduced into the food chain due to their prevalence in surface waters, where marine zooplankton, small, free-floating aquatic microorganisms, often spend most of their time when feeding. Zooplankton are an essential food source for secondary consumers, such as fish and cetaceans, which can create a pathway for microplastics to enter the food chain, posing a danger to secondary producers, apex predators and potentially human health. In addition to direct impacts on marine life, microplastics can indirectly affect Kenya’s economy. The presence of MP in fish can affect seafood safety and negatively impact those who rely on fishing as a source of livelihood and income.

Where are they found in Kenya?

Microplastics are everywhere. Studies in Kenya have shown that over 90% of the microplastics present were fibres, with fragments and films making up the remaining 10%. suggesting high contamination of the ocean with these microplastics, likely arising from textiles, fishing nets used by local fishermen and bleaching of colored plastics. Areas such as Mikindani and Nyali Bridge have been reported to have high concentrations of microplastics linked to increased amounts of solid waste from surrounding industrial and domestic sectors. A recent study reported a concentration range of 0.02 to 2.04 items per cubic meter in 6 sites along the Kenyan Coast. The likely input is River Sabaki, which receives large amounts of packaging plastic waste from the Dandora dumpsite via the Nairobi River. 

A study conducted in the Kenyan exclusive economic zone waters reported the presence of MP between 110 and 255 items per cubic meter mainly from land-based sources in Kilifi, Malindi, Ngomeni, and Kipini, as well as riverine input from Sabaki and Tana that emptied into the ocean. Furthermore, the study reported PP (polypropylene) as being the dominant polymer present. This could be explained by the fact that PP is commonly used to manufacture items such as food containers, plastic tableware, disposable cups, plates and jugs, which are mainly used in urban centers and hotels adjacent that eventually reach the ocean where they are further broken down into MPs. A more striking finding is the transboundary transportation of MP with a past study encountering MPs in Dabaso, a nature reserve located in Watamu Marine National Park at concentrations as high as those of creeks near Mombasa town despite the fact that this is a protected area with limited human activity. The transboundary nature of MP results from their ability to travel great distances and highlights the need for global efforts to reduce plastic pollution.

The information currently available on MP is still scanty. Further research is still needed to gain a better understanding of their occurrence, distribution and their potential implications on the health of marine organisms and the environment as a whole

How do we deal with microplastic pollution?

There are two approaches to reducing the amount of microplastic in the environment. First, avoid having offspring by eliminating the parents’ approach. Avoiding, refusing and eliminating unnecessary, problematic and non-recyclable plastic packing will eliminate macro-plastics from the environment thereby reducing the chances of their degradation into microplastics. The second approach is a total ban on products with micro-bids.

To address issues of plastic pollution, Kenya recently launched National Marine Litter Management Action Plan 2022-2031 and National Strategy on Plastics and Microplastics in 2020 which outlines steps that must be taken to reduce the use of plastic and microplastics including developing a national policy and legal framework for plastic and microplastic management, promoting waste reduction and recycling initiatives, and enforcing existing regulations. Some of the key recommendations aligned to these steps for reducing microplastics in the environment include 1) Reducing the use of single-use plastics and promoting the use of biodegradable packaging; 2) Implementing proper waste management; 3) Strictly enforcing laws prohibiting the dumping of plastics into the ocean; 4) Raising awareness on the dangers of plastics and microplastics and the importance of reducing or avoiding their use and 5) Collaboration between governments and other organizations to develop efficient and effective microplastic removal from waste and stormwater.

We hope these measures will help reduce the amounts of microplastics in the marine environment, aid in protecting Kenya’s marine life and support the blue economy drive. Let’s be the generation that takes a stand against microplastics and works to safeguard the ocean’s diverse biological resources for long-term sustainability including supporting our planet’s economy.

Selected reading

1. Boucher, J., & Friot, D. (2017). Primary microplastics in the oceans: a global evaluation of sources (Vol. 10). Gland, Switzerland: Iucn.
2. Kerubo, J. O., Muthumbi, A. W., Onyari, J. M., Kimani, E. N., & Robertson-Andersson, D. (2020). Microplastic pollution in the surface waters of creeks along the Kenyan coast, Western Indian Ocean (WIO). Western Indian Ocean Journal of Marine Science, 19(2), 75-88.
3. Kosore, C. M., Ojwang, L., Maghanga, J., Kamau, J., Shilla, D., Everaert, G., … & Shashoua, Y. (2022). Microplastics in Kenya’s marine nearshore surface waters: Current status. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 179, 113710.
4. Kosore, C., Ojwang, L., Maghanga, J., Kamau, J., Kimeli, A., Omukoto, J., … & Ndirui, E. (2018). Occurrence and ingestion of microplastics by zooplankton in Kenya’s marine environment: first documented evidence. African Journal of Marine Science, 40(3), 225-234.
5. Okuku, E. O., Kiteresi, L. I., Owato, G., Mwalugha, C., Omire, J., Otieno, K., … & Mulupi, L. (2020). Marine macro-litter composition and distribution along the Kenyan Coast: The first-ever documented study. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 159, 111497.
6. Onyango, W. A. (2020). Types and abundance of microplastics in macro-invertebrates along the Kenyan coast (Doctoral dissertation, University of Nairobi).