Nakuru County Assembly Speaker Mr Joel Karuri has called on devolved units to collaborate with the national government and other stakeholders in enacting effective policies and robust accountability mechanisms that are crucial for building climate resilience, so as to guarantee that actions taken to mitigate and adapt to climate change are both impactful and transparent.
Mr Karuri stated that ensuring climate actions are open and transparent was essential for building trust and enabling effective evaluation which in turn allows for learning, adaptation, and continuous improvement of the interventions.
He said there was a need for functional monitoring and reporting mechanisms at both national and county levels to track progress towards climate goals and report on performance to hold all actors right from ward to national level involved in climate intervention initiatives accountable.
The speaker made the remarks during a meeting with a team from the Commission on Administrative Justice (CAJ) led by Vice-Chair Ms. Dorothy Jemator to discuss the progress of the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) Program.
The meeting explored ways of strengthening climate action policies and grievance redress mechanisms.
Mr Karuri affirmed that proper governance is crucial for effective climate change mitigation, ensuring policies are implemented and enforced to reduce emissions and adapt to the changing climate. This, he noted, involves clear frameworks, inter-sectoral collaboration, and public participation.
“Governance plays a vital role in preparing for the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and water scarcity. This includes developing adaptation strategies, investing in infrastructure resilience, and promoting sustainable land management practices.
Good governance helps ensure that climate policies contribute to sustainable development and do not disproportionately burden vulnerable populations,” he elaborated.
Strong governance structures, said the Speaker, are needed to translate climate goals into concrete policies and ensure their effective implementation and enforcement. This includes setting clear targets, developing regulations, and establishing monitoring and reporting mechanisms.
He stated that both levels of government can leverage good governance principles to enhance policy coherence, streamline decision-making processes, and mobilize resources for climate initiatives.
Transparent and accountable governance structures, he noted, foster trust and cooperation among stakeholders, facilitating the implementation of climate policies and programs.
Additionally, Mr Karuri said inclusive governance practices empower marginalized communities to participate in climate decision-making processes, ensuring that climate action is responsive to their needs and priorities.
Climate change mitigation, he observed, requires a coordinated effort across different sectors, such as energy, transportation, agriculture, and industry. Mr Karuri said good governance fosters collaboration and ensures that policies are aligned and integrated across these sectors.
Mr Karuri noted that proper policies and solid accountability systems are crucial for building a climate will create a system that will be able to withstand and recover from climate-related shocks and stresses.
“Climate action is inseparably linked to sustainable development, and effective policies and accountability are needed to ensure that climate actions do not undermine other development goals. Climate policies should be designed to ensure that the burdens and benefits of climate action are distributed equitably, particularly for vulnerable populations and marginalized communities,” he stated.
The Speaker who was flanked by the County Assembly’s Deputy Clerk Mr Steven Gatimu added that policies that help communities and ecosystems adapt to the impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and changing ecosystems, are equally important.
These policies, he pointed out, can include infrastructure investments, disaster preparedness plans, and regulations to protect vulnerable ecosystems.
“Policies aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions also are vital. This includes measures like transitioning to renewable energy sources, improving energy efficiency, and implementing carbon pricing mechanisms,” stated the Speaker
He observed that engaging the public in decision-making processes and ensuring transparency in climate policies builds trust and legitimacy. Public participation can also lead to more effective and sustainable solutions.
Ms. Jemator commended the County Assembly for its efforts on grievance redress mechanisms, saying, “It is vital that grievance redress systems are robust and accessible. This is crucial for ensuring accountability in climate action programs and addressing the needs of our communities,”
The CAJ Vice-Chairperson reiterated that good governance and transparency are crucial for the successful implementation of climate action initiatives in Kenya, ensuring accountability and maximizing positive impact by fostering trust and efficient resource allocation.
She affirmed that transparent processes and clear accountability mechanisms are vital for building trust among stakeholders, including citizens, businesses, and international partners.
“Good governance ensures that climate action funds and resources are used effectively and efficiently, maximizing their impact and preventing waste or misuse. Transparent processes encourage broader participation and inclusivity, ensuring that the needs and concerns of all stakeholders, especially vulnerable communities, are considered in climate action planning and implementation,” Ms Jemator pointed out.
She added “Transparency and accountability help to reduce corruption and ensure that climate action initiatives are not undermined by illicit activities. A strong governance framework can attract both domestic and international investment in climate action, as investors are more likely to invest in projects that are transparent and accountable,”
By Anne Mwale
