https://big3africa.org/activity/ Activity feed for the entire site. Thu, 25 Jun 2026 16:05:44 +0300 https://buddypress.org/?v= en-US 30 hourly 2 1f7af91d268a7b78b73833a2ce960400 https://big3africa.org/?p=6799 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:50:55 +0300 Why Kenya Is Missing from Nescafé’s Sustainability Push As global coffee giant Nestlé celebrates what it describes as significant progress under its Nescafé Plan 2030 sustainability programme, Kenya is conspicuously missing from its latest progress report. The Nescafé Plan 2030 Progress Report 2025 paints a picture of a company investing heavily in climate resilience, regenerative agriculture, human rights, child protection and farmer livelihoods across coffee-growing regions worldwide. Yet Kenya, one of Africa’s most renowned coffee producers and East Africa’s second-largest coffee exporter after Ethiopia, barely features in the 19-page report. Instead, neighbouring Uganda emerges as one of the programme’s flagship African success stories. Uganda is among nine countries benefiting from enhanced human rights initiatives implemented through partnerships with organizations such as the International Labour Organization (ILO), Terre des Hommes, and Save the Children. The report highlights Uganda as a pioneer in child protection efforts, including the launch of the Coffee Coalition for Children’s Rights, a collaborative initiative bringing together governments, communities, civil society groups and coffee companies to address child welfare issues in coffee-growing regions. For Kenya’s coffee sector, the omission raises important questions about participation, investment flows and the future of sustainability financing in African coffee production. Nestle HQ in Egypt | Courtesy The absence is particularly striking at a time when climate change is increasingly threatening coffee production across East Africa. Scientists warn that rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts and emerging pests are shrinking suitable coffee-growing areas worldwide. Arabica coffee, the premium variety for which Kenya is internationally celebrated, is especially vulnerable to temperature increases. Nestlé’s report repeatedly emphasizes regenerative agriculture as the company’s primary strategy for building climate resilience. By 2025, the company says 53 percent of its green coffee was sourced from farms adopting regenerative agricultural practices, surpassing its 2030 target ahead of schedule. The programme, the company says, has distributed more than 20 million climate-resilient coffee seedlings in 2025 alone, trained over 100,000 farmers and supported more than 400,000 hectares of farmland through field programmes. Yet none of the highlighted examples come from Kenya. Instead, Brazil is showcased for soil restoration techniques, Vietnam for large-scale seedling distribution, India for integrating beekeeping into coffee farming, while Uganda receives significant attention for social sustainability interventions. Though Kenya’s omission may not necessarily mean the country is excluded from Nestlé’s sourcing network, sustainability reporting increasingly influences investment decisions, donor partnerships and access to climate finance. Countries prominently featured in global sustainability programmes often attract technical assistance, pilot projects, training opportunities and funding for climate adaptation. This raises concerns about whether Kenya is receiving a proportional share of sustainability investments relative to its importance in the global coffee trade. For decades, Kenyan coffee has enjoyed a premium reputation in international markets because of its quality, traceability and distinctive flavour profile. Yet the country’s coffee sector has faced declining production, ageing farmers, land fragmentation, rising production costs and increasing climate pressures. According to sector experts, climate adaptation investments are becoming as important as market access in determining the future competitiveness of coffee-producing countries. The report suggests that Uganda’s growing prominence may reflect broader shifts in global coffee supply chains. Uganda has rapidly expanded coffee production in recent years through aggressive government support, farmer mobilisation and climate-resilient coffee expansion programmes. The country has also become a strategic focus for international sustainability initiatives seeking to address social and environmental challenges within agricultural supply chains. Nestlé’s report highlights Uganda as a testing ground for collaborative child protection systems that could potentially be replicated elsewhere in the coffee sector. The Coffee Coalition for Children’s Rights, launched in Uganda, is described as a model bringing together public institutions, social workers and local communities to address child protection risks in coffee-growing areas. As multinational companies increasingly position sustainability as central to their business models, visibility matters. The question emerging from Nestlé’s latest report is whether Kenya is securing its place within the next generation of climate-smart coffee investments that will shape the future of global coffee production. For a country whose coffee reputation has been built over generations, remaining competitive may increasingly depend not only on producing high-quality beans but also on attracting the climate adaptation resources, sustainability partnerships and regenerative agriculture investments that are rapidly transforming coffee landscapes elsewhere in Africa. As global coffee companies race to climate-proof their supply chains, Kenya’s relative absence from one of the industry’s flagship sustainability reports may be less about what is missing from a document and more about what is at stake for the future of one of the country’s most iconic agricuContinue Reading

]]> c3c488c7333965b8786c5e6417bab1da https://big3africa.org/?p=6801 Thu, 25 Jun 2026 09:29:27 +0300 Kenya's Agriculture and Solar Power Beyond the Hype By Muthoni Kariuki As Kenya grapples with climate change, recurring droughts, and rising food insecurity, solar energy has emerged as one of the most celebrated solutions for agricultural transformation. From government programmes to private-sector initiatives, solar-powered irrigation is increasingly being promoted as the key to unlocking higher farm productivity and improving livelihoods for millions of smallholder farmers. The enthusiasm is understandable. Kenya enjoys abundant sunshine throughout the year, solar technology costs have fallen significantly, and many rural areas remain beyond the reach of reliable electricity infrastructure. Yet amid the excitement, an important question remains: can solar energy alone transform Kenyan agriculture? The answer is both yes and no. Solar energy has the potential to address one of the most persistent challenges facing farmers: access to affordable and reliable power. However, the growing narrative around solar-powered agriculture often blurs the line between what technology can achieve and what it cannot. While solar energy can improve efficiency and resilience, it is not a substitute for the broader reforms needed to unlock the full potential of Kenya’s agricultural sector. There is little doubt that solar energy is bringing tangible benefits to Kenyan farmers. One of its biggest advantages is the reduction in operating costs. Unlike diesel-powered pumps, solar irrigation systems require no fuel, protecting farmers from fluctuating fuel prices while lowering production expenses over the long term. For smallholder farmers operating on thin margins, these savings can make a meaningful difference. Solar technology is also extending irrigation to off-grid areas where electricity infrastructure is unavailable or unreliable. This has proven particularly valuable in arid and semi-arid regions where farmers have traditionally relied on unpredictable rainfall. By providing a reliable source of power for water pumping, solar systems help farmers maintain production during dry spells and improve resilience to climate shocks. The economic benefits can be substantial. Studies tracking solar irrigation projects in Kenya found significant increases in farm revenues and profits as farmers gained the ability to grow crops throughout the year, cultivate larger areas, and diversify into higher-value produce. Access to irrigation means farmers are no longer restricted to a single rainy season harvest and can produce crops when market prices are more favourable. Beyond irrigation, solar energy is supporting agricultural value chains through cold storage facilities, milk cooling systems, grain drying equipment, and small-scale processing plants. These applications help reduce post-harvest losses, which continue to rob farmers of a significant share of their earnings. For farmers producing perishable commodities such as vegetables, fruits, and milk, access to solar-powered storage can translate directly into higher incomes. Irrigation using solar power in a rural setting in Kenya. | Courtesy From an environmental perspective, solar energy offers a cleaner alternative to diesel-powered equipment, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions while supporting Kenya’s transition to a greener economy. At a time when agriculture is increasingly vulnerable to climate change, renewable energy solutions can contribute to both mitigation and adaptation efforts. Despite these benefits, the narrative surrounding solar energy often oversimplifies the realities facing Kenyan agriculture. The first misconception is that solar energy solves water shortages. It does not. Solar-powered pumps can only move water that already exists. In many parts of Kenya, farmers face declining groundwater levels, seasonal rivers, and increasing water stress linked to climate change. While solar systems make pumping cheaper, they cannot create new water sources. This distinction matters because Kenya’s irrigation challenge is fundamentally a water challenge rather than an energy challenge. Expanding irrigation requires investment in dams, water harvesting systems, reservoirs, and sustainable groundwater management alongside energy solutions. Without adequate water solutions, even the most advanced solar-powered irrigation system will have little impact. The impressive productivity gains often attributed to solar irrigation can also be misleading. In many cases, the gains result from access to irrigation itself rather than the source of energy powering the pump. A farmer moving from rain-fed agriculture to irrigated farming is likely to see higher yields regardless of whether the pump runs on diesel, electricity, or solar power. In other words, solar energy may be enabling the transformation, but it is not necessarily the sole driver of the productivity gains being reported. Moreover, agricultural productivity depends on far more than access to energy. Many farmers continue to struggle with declining soil fertility, poor-quality seed, pests and diseases, inadequate extension services, limited access to credit, and volatile market prices. A solar-powered pump cannot fix depleted soils or guarantee profitable markets. There is also the issue of affordability. Although solar technology costs have fallen, the initial investment remains beyond the reach of many smallholder farmers. Another concern rarely discussed is water sustainability. Because solar-powered systems have lower operating costs, farmers may be encouraged to pump more water than before. What begins as an efficiency gain can inadvertently create pressure on local water resources if extraction is not properly monitored. Without proper regulation and water management, this could accelerate groundwater depletion in already water-stressed regions. The debate should therefore not be about whether solar energy is good or bad for agriculture. Solar energy is undoubtedly a valuable tool. It lowers energy costs, supports irrigation, improves resilience, and contributes to environmental sustainability. However, it is only one piece of a much larger puzzle. For Kenya to achieve meaningful and lasting improvements in agricultural productivity, solar investments must be accompanied by stronger water infrastructure, improved extension services, better access to quality inputs, and reliable markets. Technology alone cannot solve structural problems. Solar energy deserves its place in Kenya’s agricultural future, but not on a pedestal. The danger lies not in embracing solar power but in expecting it to perform miracles. Sunlight can power pumps, cold rooms, and processing equipment, but it cannot replace sound agricultural policies, sustainable water management, or investments in rural development. Kenya’s agricultural transformation will require more than solar panels. It will require a holistic approach that addresses the many interconnected challenges farmers face every day, from water scarcity and soil degradation to market access and financial inclusion. Solar energy can help drive that transformation, but it remains an enabler rather than a solution itself. The writer is an independent editorial cContinue Reading

]]> 87064ce945c33f769ada3e14b5bfc7a7 https://big3africa.org/?p=6778 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 09:31:14 +0300 Africa Faces Heightened Hunger Risk as FAO Warns of Emerging El Niño Threat By Katerina Veloni Africa could face a fresh wave of food insecurity in the coming months as a developing El Niño weather phenomenon threatens to disrupt rainfall patterns across some of the continent’s most vulnerable agricultural regions, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned. According to FAO, the greatest risks are emerging in the Sahel and Southern Africa, where some farming and grazing areas face more than a 50 per cent chance of drought as El Niño conditions strengthen. The UN agency said in a statement that the climate phenomenon could significantly affect crop production, livestock health, water supplies and rural livelihoods, placing millions of people at risk of worsening hunger. “El Niño-induced climate hazards pose high risks to food security,” FAO said, warning that changing rainfall and temperature patterns could severely affect agricultural production and rural incomes. The warning comes as many African countries continue to struggle with recurring droughts, land degradation, water scarcity and rising food prices, challenges that have already weakened the resilience of farming communities. FAO said El Niño has the potential to alter normal weather patterns across the globe, triggering prolonged droughts in some regions while causing floods and storms in others. Although the phenomenon originates in the Pacific Ocean, its effects are often felt across Africa through changes in rainfall distribution and temperatures. Recent forecasts suggest the current El Niño could become particularly strong, prompting concern among humanitarian agencies and governments. Impact of El Nino | Courtesy According to assessments cited by FAO and the World Food Programme (WFP), nearly 8.8 million people in 22 high-risk countries may require support to withstand climate-related shocks linked to El Niño. Agriculture remains one of Africa’s most climate-sensitive sectors. Across the continent, millions of smallholder farmers and pastoralists depend on seasonal rainfall to sustain crops and livestock. Reduced rainfall can lead to crop failures, shrinking harvests, drying pasturelands and livestock deaths, undermining food security and household incomes. The warning comes as Somalia continues to battle one of the world’s most severe food crises. FAO, UNICEF and WFP recently reported that about six million people in the country are facing serious food insecurity due to drought, economic pressures and climate-related shocks. Nearly two million children are affected by acute malnutrition. Across the continent, humanitarian agencies say climate shocks are increasingly combining with conflict and economic instability to drive hunger. In a recent report, FAO and WFP identified several global hunger hotspots where food insecurity is expected to worsen between June and November. Sudan and South Sudan were among the countries listed as areas of highest concern, while Somalia and northeastern Nigeria were also highlighted for deteriorating food conditions. The agencies said conflict remains the leading cause of hunger in many of these countries, but climate extremes such as droughts and floods are increasingly worsening the crisis. FAO also warned that extreme heat is placing growing pressure on global food systems. A recent report by the FAO and the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) found that more than 1 billion people are exposed to extreme heat, with agriculture among the sectors hardest hit. According to the report, rising temperatures are affecting crop yields, livestock productivity and fisheries while reducing the capacity of rural communities to adapt to changing climate conditions. FAO is urging governments, donors and development partners to act before the impacts of El Niño become more severe. The agency said investments in early warning systems, climate-resilient agriculture, water management, drought preparedness and farmer support programmes can help reduce losses and prevent humanitarian crises. Experts say that while El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon, its impacts are being amplified by climate change, which is increasing the frequency and intensiContinue Reading

]]> 42d62a49b53ff5aacc4be3e07a40a722 https://big3africa.org/?p=6776 Wed, 24 Jun 2026 08:54:12 +0300 UN Chief Calls for Greater Global Support for Africa’s Clean Energy Transition By Mathew Stewart United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on wealthy nations, development banks and private investors to significantly increase support for Africa’s clean energy ambitions, warning that the continent risks being left behind in the global transition from fossil fuels. Speaking during London Climate Action Week, Guterres argued that Africa’s development prospects and the world’s climate goals are deeply interconnected, making it imperative for the international community to unlock the financing, technology and investment needed to accelerate the continent’s shift to renewable energy. “Africa must not be left behind,” Guterres said as he unveiled what he described as a practical blueprint for a global clean energy transition. The UN chief noted that while Africa is home to some of the world’s richest solar, wind and renewable energy resources, hundreds of millions of people across the continent still lack access to reliable electricity. He said this paradox highlights the urgent need for greater international support to help African countries harness their clean energy potential while advancing economic growth and sustainable development. Guterres warned that without adequate financing, developing countries could struggle to participate fully in the global energy transition, widening existing inequalities and undermining efforts to tackle climate change. His remarks come at a time when many African nations are grappling with rising energy demand, mounting climate impacts and limited access to affordable climate finance. Despite contributing only a small fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions, African countries remain among the most vulnerable to climate-related disasters, including droughts, floods and extreme weather events. London Climate Action Week is one of the world’s largest independent climate events. | Courtesy LCAW The Secretary-General called for increased public and private investment in renewable energy projects across the continent, alongside reforms to international financial systems that would make climate finance more accessible and affordable for developing countries. Beyond Africa, Guterres outlined a broader roadmap for accelerating the global shift to clean energy. The blueprint calls for a rapid expansion of renewable energy generation, greater electrification of transport and industry, and stronger national climate commitments ahead of the COP31 climate summit in Antalya, Türkiye. “The age of fossil fuels is failing us,” he said, arguing that renewable energy has become the most viable path to energy security, economic resilience and sustainable development. He noted that the cost of renewable technologies continues to fall, creating unprecedented opportunities for countries to reduce emissions while strengthening their economies. According to Guterres, clean energy is no longer simply an environmental imperative but an economic opportunity that countries cannot afford to ignore. The UN chief also urged technology companies to power their rapidly expanding data centres with renewable energy and called on oil and gas producers to reduce methane emissions by eliminating routine flaring and fixing leaks throughout their operations. As global leaders prepare for COP31, Guterres emphasized that the success of the clean energy transition will depend not only on ambitious targets but also on ensuring that developing regions, especially Africa, have the resources needed to turn those ambitions into reality. “The time for setting targets alone is over,” he said. “What the world needs now is delivery.” His message places Africa at the centre of the global climate conversation, framing the continent not as a victim of climate change but as a critical partner in building a cleContinue Reading

]]> e84f61cb895f8d0f74c31ab52276bd2a https://big3africa.org/?p=6765 Tue, 23 Jun 2026 07:40:45 +0300 New Partnership Seeks to Rescue Ethiopia's Lake Ziway For generations, Lake Ziway has been the beating heart of Ethiopia’s Central Rift Valley. Stretching across approximately 440 square kilometres and located about 160 kilometres south of the capital Addis Ababa, the freshwater lake has sustained communities, nourished wildlife, supported fisheries, and powered agricultural production in one of Ethiopia’s most productive regions. Today, however, this ecological treasure is under mounting pressure from human activity and climate change, raising fears about its long-term survival. Scientists and conservationists warn that the lake is facing a complex web of environmental challenges driven by uncontrolled water abstraction, agricultural pollution, invasive species, and shifting climate patterns. Together, these pressures are causing declining water levels, deteriorating water quality, shrinking fish stocks, and the gradual degradation of the ecosystems that millions depend upon. The stakes could not be higher. An estimated two million people rely directly on the Lake Ziway watershed for domestic water, farming, fishing, and other economic activities. Beyond the immediate catchment area, the lake forms a crucial part of the wider Ziway–Shalla sub-basin, a landscape that supports approximately seven million people across Ethiopia’s Rift Valley. Ziway upper catchment site under restoration. | Courtesy Yet signs of ecological distress are increasingly visible. More than 10% of the lake’s surface is now covered by invasive water hyacinth, a fast-spreading aquatic weed that chokes waterways, depletes oxygen levels, disrupts fishing, and threatens biodiversity. Meanwhile, rapid population growth and the expansion of irrigated agriculture, including Ethiopia’s thriving floriculture sector, have intensified competition for water resources. Experts say the challenges facing Lake Ziway mirror a wider crisis unfolding across Africa’s freshwater ecosystems. From Lake Victoria in East Africa to Lakes Tanganyika and Malawi further south, many of the continent’s largest freshwater bodies are grappling with declining water quality, invasive species, unsustainable resource extraction, sedimentation, and climate-induced changes in rainfall patterns. The health of these lakes is increasingly linked to the resilience of food systems, biodiversity conservation, and climate adaptation efforts across the continent. Against this backdrop, conservation organisation Wetlands International and Sher Ethiopia have launched an ambitious initiative aimed at restoring the health of Lake Ziway and the surrounding landscape. Supported by the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ethiopia, the three-year Ziway Lives and Landscapes Project seeks to tackle some of the lake’s most urgent environmental threats through improved water governance, soil conservation, wetland restoration, and community-led action. The initiative also aims to create a model for landscape-scale restoration that can be replicated across the wider basin and beyond. “Reversing the degradation of Lake Ziway and its impacts on people and nature can only be tackled together through a collaborative response that mobilises everyone, including communities and companies,” said Simeneh Shiferaw, Programme Coordinator at Wetlands International Ethiopia. “Our groundbreaking partnership with Sher Ethiopia is a pathway to a brighter future because it will not only showcase solutions but also inspire a broader collective effort that enhances the health of the landscape and drives sustainable development.” Community effort in restoring degraded Ziway Upper catchment areas. | Courtesy The project will focus on three interconnected pillars designed to restore ecological balance while strengthening local livelihoods. Among its targets are the restoration of 300 hectares of degraded upland areas using nature-based solutions, the establishment of 50 hectares of protected buffer zones along the lakeshore, and support for 300 smallholder farmers to improve water-use efficiency by at least 15 per cent. The programme also seeks to reduce the use of chemical fertilisers and pesticides by 20 per cent and mobilise communities to remove 50,000 kilograms of water hyacinth from the lake. For Sher Ethiopia, one of the country’s major flower producers and part of the Dutch flower company Afriflora, the initiative represents an opportunity to align business interests with environmental stewardship. “Lake Ziway is critical for local communities, farmers, businesses and biodiversity, and Sher Ethiopia is committed to playing our part in the collective effort to restore it and build resilience,” said Lulit Tadele, Director of Sher Ethiopia. “This initiative will help safeguard the health of the lake that underpins the future of our community and opens the door for other companies to support the restoration of degraded landscapes while helping to achieve national goals on climate, nature and sustainable development.” The project’s backers argue that private sector participation will be essential if restoration efforts are to achieve lasting impact. “There is no silver bullet for the challenges facing Lake Ziway,” said Alwin Quispel, Counsellor for Agriculture and Nature at the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ethiopia. “We believe the answer lies in unprecedented collective action that includes strong contributions from the private sector. This innovative initiative will kickstart a new era of cooperation and environmental restoration in the landscape, benefiting communities and economies, reversing nature loss, and strengthening climate adaptation.” According to global climate assessments, freshwater ecosystems are among the most threatened habitats on Earth, with wetlands disappearing at three times the rate of forests. Across Africa, rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, land degradation, and growing demand for water are placing unprecedented strain on lakes and rivers that support millions of people. Lake Ziway’s story therefore reflects a broader struggle playing out across the continent as countries seek to balance economic growth, food production, biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. Whether the Ziway Lives and Landscapes Project succeeds may ultimately depend on its ability to unite governments, businesses, communities, and conservation groups around a shared vision for the future. If successful, it could provide a blueprint for restoring freshwater ecosystems not only in Ethiopia but across Africa’s increasingly threatened lake basins. For now, conservationists hope the initiative marks the beginning of a turning point for a lake whose fate is deeply intertwined with the future of millions of people and the landscapes they cContinue Reading

]]> cc5ea36ff9242d86023a64f6e213d167 https://big3africa.org/?p=6754 Mon, 22 Jun 2026 09:10:25 +0300 Kenya Launches Landmark Partnership to Transform Waste into Climate Action The waters of the Indian Ocean have long sustained Kenya’s coastal communities, supported fisheries, powered tourism, and served as a gateway to global trade. Yet beneath the beauty of the country’s marine ecosystems lies a growing environmental crisis of plastic pollution. Every year, thousands of tonnes of plastic waste find their way into rivers, beaches, mangrove forests, and eventually the ocean, threatening biodiversity, undermining livelihoods, and contributing to the broader climate crisis. Last week, however, Kenya signaled a major shift in how it intends to confront the challenge. On the sidelines of the 11th Our Ocean Conference in Mombasa, Kenya, the National Plastics Action Partnership (NPAP-Kenya) was officially launched, a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to transform plastic waste from an environmental burden into a driver of green economic growth. The launch marks one of the country’s most ambitious steps toward building a circular economy, an economic model that keeps materials in use for as long as possible through recycling, reuse, and innovation rather than disposal. The announcement comes at a pivotal moment for global ocean conservation efforts. During the conference, world leaders, development partners, businesses, and environmental organizations adopted the Mombasa Declaration, committing to more than 300 new pledges aimed at protecting marine ecosystems, combating pollution, and advancing sustainable blue economy initiatives. For Kenya, the NPAP is expected to become a central pillar in delivering those commitments. Kenya has often been hailed as a continental leader in environmental protection, particularly after introducing one of the world’s strictest bans on plastic carrier bags in 2017. Yet despite that progress, plastic pollution remains a significant challenge. Rapid urbanization, population growth, increased consumption of single-use plastics, and inadequate waste management systems continue to generate enormous volumes of plastic waste. Much of this waste ends up clogging drainage systems, contaminating agricultural land, polluting waterways, and flowing into the Indian Ocean. Environmental experts warn that plastics are no longer just a waste management issue. | Courtesy AI Environmental experts warn that plastics are no longer just a waste management issue. As plastics break down into microplastics, they infiltrate food chains, threaten marine life, and pose emerging health risks to humans. The climate implications are equally alarming. Globally, plastics are produced primarily from fossil fuels. From extraction and manufacturing to transportation and disposal, plastics generate significant greenhouse gas emissions. According to international estimates, the plastics sector could account for an increasing share of global carbon emissions in the coming decades if production continues unchecked. Reducing plastic leakage, increasing recycling rates, and promoting circularity are therefore increasingly viewed as climate solutions as much as environmental ones. Speaking during the launch, Environment Cabinet Secretary Deborah Barasa underscored the need for a paradigm shift: “We are not here to manage waste. We are here to build an industry that empowers our people.” Her remarks reflected a growing recognition that plastic pollution can no longer be addressed solely through clean-up exercises and landfill expansion. Instead, Kenya is seeking to create an ecosystem where waste becomes a valuable economic resource. The NPAP brings together the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, the Global Plastic Action Partnership (GPAP), and UNDP Kenya, alongside private sector players, recyclers, investors, development partners, and civil society organizations. The initiative aims to bridge the persistent gap between policy formulation and implementation, particularly around Kenya’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) regulations, which require producers to take responsibility for the collection and management of the waste generated by their products. While the legal framework exists, stakeholders acknowledge that enforcement challenges, fragmented markets, and inadequate coordination have slowed progress. During discussions moderated by Maina Chege, participants emphasized that Kenya’s plastic challenge is increasingly one of market coordination rather than technological limitations. Across the country, recycling enterprises have emerged to convert discarded plastics into construction materials, household products, textiles, and industrial inputs. Yet many continue to struggle because of inconsistent supply chains and limited access to reliable buyers. Without predictable demand, investments in recycling infrastructure often remain risky. The NPAP seeks to address this bottleneck by strengthening linkages among waste collectors, recyclers, manufacturers, and consumers. By strengthening markets for recycled materials, policymakers hope to stimulate investment, encourage innovation, and increase the value of recovered plastics. The vision is to create a self-sustaining circular economy where waste is viewed not as garbage but as raw material for new industries. A key component of the initiative is the development of transparent traceability systems. Investors increasingly require assurance that materials marketed as recycled have indeed been recovered, processed, and traded through verifiable and ethical supply chains. Such transparency is becoming essential for attracting climate finance and sustainability-linked investments. Kenya hopes that establishing robust traceability systems will unlock significant green capital from international investors seeking environmentally responsible projects. Plastic bottles waste at a dumping site. The Coca-Cola campaign will fast-track three pillars of the World Without Waste vision, namely Design, Collect, and Partner. | Courtesy Inside Waste This comes at a time when countries across Africa are competing to attract financing for climate adaptation, green manufacturing, and sustainable development initiatives. The ability to demonstrate measurable environmental impact could position Kenya as a regional hub for circular economy investments. Among the most significant aspects of the partnership is its recognition of waste pickers as critical actors in the recycling ecosystem. For decades, thousands of informal waste workers have recovered valuable materials from dumpsites, streets, and landfills, often under difficult and hazardous conditions. Despite their contribution to environmental protection, many have remained excluded from formal economic systems. The NPAP seeks to change that by integrating waste pickers into formal value chains, improving working conditions, enhancing incomes, and providing greater economic security. For a country grappling with youth unemployment, the circular economy presents a significant opportunity. Experts estimate that recycling, waste recovery, repair services, and green manufacturing could create thousands of jobs while simultaneously reducing environmental degradation. The implications extend beyond economics. Plastic pollution threatens coral reefs, seagrass beds, mangrove forests, and fisheries that support millions of livelihoods. These ecosystems are also vital natural defenses against climate change. Mangroves, for instance, store vast amounts of carbon and protect coastlines from storm surges and erosion. When choked by plastic waste, their ability to provide these services diminishes. By reducing marine pollution, Kenya is not only safeguarding biodiversity but also strengthening climate resilience for vulnerable coastal communities. The NPAP initiative signals a broader transformation in how Kenya views environmental challenges by seeing them not only as threats to be contained but as opportunities to create jobs, attract investment, reduce emissions, and buildContinue Reading

]]> 4a6f8a69a232ec0d40d3db5ed55f4b67 https://big3africa.org/?p=6745 Mon, 22 Jun 2026 07:06:37 +0300 G7 Puts Climate on the Back Burner as Geopolitical Crises Take Centre Stage As leaders of the world’s wealthiest democracies gathered in Evian, France, for the 2026 G7 Summit last week, climate change found itself competing for attention with wars, economic uncertainty, and energy security concerns. The summit unfolded against a backdrop of escalating tensions in the Middle East, growing concerns over global economic stability, and renewed debates about energy supplies. Discussions on security and geopolitics dominated much of the agenda, pushing climate action further down the list of immediate priorities. For many developing countries, the shift in focus raises difficult questions about whether the world can afford to delay action on a crisis that is already reshaping lives, economies, and ecosystems. The irony is hard to ignore. While global leaders debated military tensions and economic shocks in conference halls overlooking Lake Geneva, millions of people across Africa continued to confront the daily realities of climate change. Climate advocates have warned that the world is entering a critical decade in which delayed action could dramatically increase the costs of adaptation and recovery. Yet the Evian summit reflected an uncomfortable reality of international politics where immediate crises often eclipse long-term threats, no matter how severe they may become. The challenge facing G7 leaders was how to balance it against an expanding list of urgent geopolitical concerns. This balancing act was evident throughout the summit. Discussions on the conflict between the United States and Iran, energy market disruptions, global supply chains, and economic resilience received significant attention. Climate change remained on the agenda, but it lacked the political urgency that characterized previous summits where emissions reductions and clean energy transitions dominated headlines. For Kenya, which was invited to participate in the summit, the implications are significant. The country has emerged as one of Africa’s strongest voices on climate diplomacy, championing renewable energy, carbon markets, forest restoration, and climate adaptation initiatives. Yet Kenya is also among the nations bearing the highest costs of a warming planet despite contributing only a tiny fraction of global greenhouse gas emissions. Recent years have brought severe droughts, destructive floods, and increasingly unpredictable rainfall patterns that have affected agriculture, water resources, infrastructure, and livelihoods. The economic burden of responding to these disasters continues to strain public finances at a time when many African countries are already grappling with mounting debt obligations. Against this backdrop, one of Kenya’s key interests at the G7 was securing support for reforms in global development finance. African leaders have repeatedly argued that climate-vulnerable countries require greater access to affordable financing to invest in adaptation, resilient infrastructure, clean energy, and disaster preparedness. While the summit produced discussions around development finance and improving access to capital for emerging economies, climate campaigners cautioned that such commitments risk losing momentum if climate resilience is not treated as a strategic priority. Analysts note that climate finance has become a question of economic stability, food security, migration, and national security, and environmental policy experts have urged G7 nations to resist a renewed dependence on fossil fuels driven by geopolitical uncertainty and instead accelerate investments in clean energy systems. They argue that strengthening renewable energy deployment, climate-resilient infrastructure, and early warning systems would not only reduce emissions but also improve global stability. The summit’s final outcomes acknowledged the importance of climate action, but many observers noted that the issue lacked the prominence it once commanded in G7 deliberations. Instead, climate policy was largely framed within broader discussions of economic competitiveness, energy security, and geopolitical resilience. The 2026 G7 Summit therefore highlighted a growing dilemma facing world leaders on: how to respond to immediate geopolitical crises without losing sight of the slower-moving but potentially more devastatingContinue Reading

]]> 77317907b90498c61f0a575f9da839c9 https://big3africa.org/?p=6733 Fri, 19 Jun 2026 07:07:05 +0300 Kenya Unveils Commitments Worth Sh129 Billion As Mombasa Ocean Summit Ends Kenya has announced approximately 42 commitments valued at an estimated Sh129 billion as the first-ever African edition of the Our Ocean Conference concluded in Mombasa. The commitments span a wide range of initiatives, including the expansion of marine protected areas, enhanced fisheries monitoring, and the mobilization of climate finance to support coastal communities and strengthen resilience to climate change. The four-day summit brought together more than 5,000 participants from governments, businesses, academia and civil society across the globe, resulting in 320 new commitments valued at Sh825.6 billion to advance marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, climate resilience and blue economy development. Among Kenya’s most significant pledges was a Sh25.8 billion commitment to equip all industrial fishing vessels operating in its waters with electronic monitoring systems. The initiative is aimed at improving transparency and combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, a challenge estimated to cost African economies between Sh1.4 trillion and Sh1.7 trillion annually through lost revenue, depleted fish stocks and weakened coastal livelihoods. Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, Hassan Ali Joho. | Courtesy “This conference is about turning words into commitments, commitments into action, and action into a legacy we can be proud of,” said Kenya’s Cabinet Secretary for Mining and Blue Economy, Hassan Ali Joho. Beyond Kenya’s commitments, major international partners announced substantial investments in ocean sustainability. The World Bank Group pledged Sh129 billion over the next two years to help developing countries build sustainable and resilient blue economies, reflecting growing recognition of the link between ocean health and economic prosperity. Canada committed Sh87.9 billion to its Small Craft Harbours Program to strengthen coastal infrastructure, fishing activities and local economies. Meanwhile, French Polynesia announced plans to expand protections within Tainui Atea, the world’s largest marine protected area, through the creation of more than 27,000 square kilometres of regulated fishing zones, coastal protection areas and seamount conservation measures. The conference marked a significant moment for Africa’s growing influence in global ocean governance. Home to 38 coastal and island states and more than 13 million square kilometres of exclusive economic zones, the continent possesses vast marine resources but has historically relied on external financing and policy leadership for ocean conservation initiatives. However, that trend is beginning to shift as data released by the World Resources Institute (WRI) showed that about 78 percent of commitments made in Africa since the launch of the Our Ocean Conference in 2014 have either been completed or are currently being implemented. The 2026 conference further highlighted a growing move towards African-led financing, innovation and implementation. Wanjira Mathai, Managing Director for Africa and Global Partnerships at WRI | Courtesy Wanjira Mathai, Managing Director for Africa and Global Partnerships at WRI, said investments in ocean conservation are progressively being viewed as investments in economic growth and opportunity. “Africa is home to the world’s youngest and fastest-growing population, with more than 400 million people between the ages of 15 and 35, and for many young Africans, the ocean is not just an environmental issue, but a source of jobs, food security and economic opportunity,” she said. Youth engagement emerged as one of the defining themes of the Mombasa summit. Held alongside the main conference, the Youth Leadership Summit brought together young scientists, entrepreneurs, innovators and activists from Kenya and beyond to showcase solutions addressing marine pollution, biodiversity loss and climate change. Among the standout initiatives were youth-led mangrove restoration projects aimed at strengthening coastal resilience, protecting biodiversity and supporting local livelihoods while contributing to Kenya’s nationalContinue Reading

]]> 621b18ee0f422a72dbf85444d9c40f3d https://big3africa.org/?p=6718 Thu, 18 Jun 2026 07:33:31 +0300 Kenya Joins Global Coalition to Protect Climate-Resilient Coral Reefs Kenya has signed a landmark international pledge to protect the world’s mostContinue Reading

]]> 53b54ce09bca61e11171a93d08022bdc https://big3africa.org/?p=6707 Thu, 18 Jun 2026 06:45:45 +0300 Mombasa Leads Global Charge for Ocean Protection Continue Reading

]]> 3e32b81a51ba06a28c5fdc6fb04ee608 https://big3africa.org/?p=6658 Wed, 17 Jun 2026 08:59:45 +0300 Kenya Among Beneficiaries of KSh407 Million UK Ocean Fund to Protect Seas and Coastal Livelihoods Kenya is among the beneficiaries of a Ksh 407 million funding injection from the United Kingdom’s Blue Planet Fund aimed at scaling ocean finance and insurance innovations across the Global South. The funding, channelled through the Ocean Risk and Resilience Action Alliance (ORRAA), will support six pioneering initiatives that aim to facilitate investment in marine ecosystems, small-scale fisheries, and blue carbon markets. The announcement was made during the Our Ocean Conference held in Mombasa. The new investment will be used to expand previously piloted projects that range from insurance schemes for fishers to carbon credit systems based on mangrove and seagrass ecosystems. According to ORRAA, the initiatives are designed to convert climate and ocean risks into resilience-building financial opportunities for vulnerable coastal populations. The Ksh 407 million 2 package contributes to ORRAA’s broader ambition of mobilising at least $500 million in ocean-focused finance and insurance mechanisms, with a target of supporting 250 million climate-vulnerable coastal people across the Global South by 2030. So far, the UK government has committed approximately Ksh 2.87 billion to ORRAA, supporting 36 projects across 19 countries and reaching more than 250,000 people. Kenyan Coastal harbour | Courtesy Joyce Chimbi Marine Minister Emma Hardy said the initiative reflects the real-world impact of climate finance on coastal livelihoods. “Behind every statistic is a fishing community better protected from storms, a mangrove forest pulling carbon from the atmosphere, a family no longer at risk of losing their home to rising seas,” she said. She added that ORRAA is advancing innovative tools such as marine biodiversity credits, including projects in Kenya. ORRAA Executive Director Karen Sack said the latest funding would advance the development of investable solutions for climate-vulnerable coastal communities. She noted that the alliance is focused on scaling financial tools that protect both people and ocean ecosystems. Kenya features prominently in the new wave of projects. The Association for Coastal Ecosystem Services (ACES) will advance the Vanga Seagrass Project, which is working toward becoming the first seagrass initiative certified under the Plan Vivo Nature Standard, creating a potential model for nature-based carbon and biodiversity credits in the country. In addition, Rare will develop a weather index-based parametric insurance product in Kenya designed to protect small-scale fishers from climate-related income losses. The model builds on similar insurance systems already being implemented in the Philippines and is expected to improve financial resilience for coastal fishing communities. Other initiatives under the funding include the expansion of the world’s first impact bond for small-scale fishers in Indonesia, led by Rare; a blue carbon credit programme in Tanzania focused on community-led mangrove restoration; microinsurance schemes for fishing communities in Colombia led by MarViva; and a mangrove carbon credContinue Reading

]]> 53e801c5b0cd31b5f10ae2b3db421b98 https://big3africa.org/?p=6651 Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:52:31 +0300 El Niño: Scientists Warn of Major Crop Disruptions Across Africa A potentially historic El Niño weather phenomenon this year could disrupt food production across Africa, threatening harvests of staple crops and exposing millions of people to heightened food insecurity, according to a new analysis by the European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC). Scientists warn that the developing El Niño, which has a high probability of becoming one of the strongest on record, could significantly alter rainfall patterns and temperatures across the continent, bringing drought to some regions, destructive floods to others, and widespread agricultural disruption. The JRC analysis identifies Sub-Saharan Africa as one of the regions most vulnerable to declines in crop productivity as shifting weather conditions interfere with planting and harvesting seasons. “Agricultural production, particularly of staple foods such as maize, may face increased uncertainty,” the report says, warning that changing rainfall patterns and extreme temperatures could reduce yields in several food-producing regions. The warning comes at a time when many African countries are already grappling with the impacts of climate change, including recurrent droughts, floods, rising temperatures and declining agricultural productivity. Millions of households across East Africa, Southern Africa and the Sahel depend on rain-fed agriculture for both food and income, making them particularly vulnerable to climate shocks. According to the JRC, the impacts of El Niño are likely to vary across Africa. Some regions especially in Southern Africa could experience severe drought conditions that damage crops and pastureland, while others like East Africa may face excessive rainfall, flooding and soil erosion that destroy farms and infrastructure. A wilted maize crop is seen in Mumijo, Buhera district east of the capital Harare, Zimbabwe, March 16, 2024. | Courtesy REUTERS For East Africa, the phenomenon presents a complex challenge. While some areas may receive above-average rainfall, the resulting floods can wash away crops, damage roads and irrigation systems, and increase the risk of waterborne diseases. In drier regions, prolonged rainfall deficits could worsen existing food shortages and livestock losses. The report warns that the consequences could extend beyond farms and rural communities as reduced agricultural output often triggers higher food prices, placing additional pressure on urban households already struggling with the rising cost of living. Global commodity markets may also feel the impact, given that El Niño has historically disrupted agricultural production in several major food-producing regions around the world, leading to volatility in the prices of maize, wheat, rice and other essential commodities. Such price increases could further strain food-importing African nations. The latest warning highlights the growing intersection between climate variability and food security. Scientists note that the current El Niño is developing in a warmer world, where climate change is intensifying weather extremes and amplifying their consequences. The JRC says the predictability of El Niño provides governments with a critical opportunity to prepare. Early interventions, including climate-smart agriculture, improved weather forecasting, strategic grain reserves and support for vulnerable farming communities, could help reduce losses and strengthen resilience. As governments and humanitarian agencies monitor the evolving climate conditions, experts are urging urgent preparedness measures to protect harvests, stabilise food systems and shield vulnerable communities from what could become one of the most consequential climate eventContinue Reading

]]> f79bae04b2681bb7cbae9fcb414a37af https://big3africa.org/?p=6636 Wed, 17 Jun 2026 07:33:36 +0300 East African Cities Rethink Waste with Visible Ecosystems Nairobi is currently facing a silent crisis as rapid urbanization outpaces the city’s ability to manage its mounting waste. According to research by the Clean Air Fund, the city generates 3,000 tonnes of waste daily, yet over half of it is illegally dumped or left uncollected. This growing mountain of trash has turned natural lifelines like the Nairobi River into de facto garbage receptacles and sewage channels. The traditional approach of hiding waste infrastructure underground is failing, as it creates a psychological “out of sight, out of mind” attitude among residents. A recent report by Sustainability Circle highlights a revolutionary alternative from rural Japan where drainage systems are kept visible and alive. Kenya Nairobi city streets | Courtesy In these Japanese regions, clear waterways filled with fish and plants run through the streets, fostering a deep emotional connection with the community. Because the water is visible and teeming with life, residents are significantly less likely to pollute what they perceive as a shared living system. Applying this “visible ecosystem” model to East Africa could transform how citizens interact with their urban environment and municipal infrastructure. The scale of the challenge is immense, with Kampala producing 2,000 tonnes of garbage daily and Dar es Salaam recording the region’s highest per capita waste generation. As noted in the journal Sustainability, the reliance on massive, unregulated landfills like Dandora and Kiteezi poses severe health risks to millions. Clogged drains are a primary symptom of this crisis, leading to devastating urban flooding and the spread of waterborne diseases during rainy seasons. Uganda Kampala City streets | Courtesy To combat this, smart technologies like solar-powered “Tech Bins” are being proposed for high-traffic areas like Nairobi’s Central Business District. These intelligent bins use IoT sensors to alert collectors before they overflow, ensuring streets remain clean while optimizing municipal resources. Beyond technology, community-led circular economy models are proving effective in managing the high percentage of organic waste found in African cities. Companies like Taka Taka Solutions in Kenya are already leading the way by transforming waste collection into a resource for organic fertilizer. Empowering local youth groups to manage decentralized composting centers can divert up to 70% of waste from reaching already overwhelmed landfills. streets of Dar es Salaam City in Tanzania | Courtesy Restoring the Nairobi River to a visible ecological corridor would not only improve sanitation but also provide much-needed green space for the public. By shifting from hidden pipes to visible, thriving ecosystems, East African cities can cultivate a new culture of environmental decency and shared responsibility. The future of African urbanism lies in blending these global innovations with local community action to create cleaner, more resilient streets. This transformation is not just about engineering; it is about reshaping the human connection to the environment wContinue Reading

]]> 89b33ec6db76371527593262b79e7d57 https://big3africa.org/?p=6627 Wed, 17 Jun 2026 06:58:51 +0300 A filmmaker shifting our views on trash ByContinue Reading

]]> 5eef7d7dfa383c9e9b586e69975312c0 https://big3africa.org/?p=6617 Tue, 16 Jun 2026 08:38:57 +0300 Green Belt Movement, Just Act Sue Government Over Forest Law Amendment By Waweru Wairimu Environmental organisations The Green Belt Movement and Just Act have moved to court to challenge a recent amendment to Kenya’s forest law, warning that it could open the door to the gradual loss and fragmentation of public forests across the country. In a petition filed before the Environment and Land Court in Nairobi, the two organisations are contesting the constitutionality of amendments to Section 56(2) of the Forest Conservation and Management Act. They argue that the changes grant the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) broad powers to issue easements for public roads, utilities and other installations through public forests without sufficient constitutional safeguards. According to the petitioners, the amendment, although presented as an administrative measure, could facilitate the fragmentation, excision and degradation of protected forests through administrative decisions rather than through the more rigorous legal processes previously required. The organisations cited the ongoing controversy surrounding Imenti Forest in Meru County as evidence of the risks posed by the amendment. Conservationists have opposed plans for the construction of an airstrip within the forest, arguing that the project threatens one of Kenya’s critical water towers and biodiversity habitats. The petition also points to continued pressure on Nairobi’s Ngong Road Forest, where conservation groups have repeatedly resisted infrastructure projects and encroachment that they say have steadily reduced forest cover and ecological integrity. “This case is not about a single amendment. It is about safeguarding Kenya’s public forests from the continued erosion of legal protections,” the organisations said in a joint statement issued on June 15. They warned that once forests are fragmented, the damage is often irreversible, resulting in biodiversity loss, degraded water catchments, disrupted ecosystems and weakened resilience to climate change. Kenya forests aerial view | Courtesy Beyond Forests The groups argue that the Constitution guarantees every Kenyan the right to a clean and healthy environment and places an obligation on the State to protect and conserve the environment for present and future generations. They further contend that public forests are part of the country’s national heritage and should not be subjected to what they describe as “unchecked administrative discretion” without meaningful public participation, transparency and accountability. The court action comes amid growing concern among environmental groups over the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Act, 2025, which introduced provisions allowing KFS to grant easements and wayleaves through public forests. Critics say the changes could effectively bypass stricter procedures that previously governed the excision or conversion of forest land. Conservationists have increasingly raised alarms over attempts to allocate or develop portions of protected forests, arguing that Kenya’s remaining natural forests are essential for water security, biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation. The Green Belt Movement and Just Act said the case seeks to prevent what they described as the normalisation of forest loss through incremental approvals for roads, power lines, pipelines and other infrastructure projects within public forests. They called on citizens, civil society organisations and public institutions to remain vigilant and demand accountability in decisions affecting public land and natural heritage. “Protecting forests is not only an environmental obligation but a safeguard for our water, climate resilience, biodiversity and future generations,” the organisations said. The case is expected to test the legality of the government’s new approach to managing public forests and could have significant implications for future infrastructure projects proposed within protected forestContinue Reading

]]> 0d820140dc4a950de23a5a7d34c7c0e3 https://big3africa.org/?p=6607 Tue, 16 Jun 2026 07:29:52 +0300 Meru Airstrip Row Deepens Over Threat to Wildlife Corridor and Biodiversity Hotspot The ongoing construction of an airstrip inside the Upper Imenti Forest Reserve in Meru County could sever critical elephant migration routes, disrupt breeding grounds and jeopardise one of Kenya’s richest biodiversity hotspots, conservation organisation Rhino Ark has warned. In a formal objection submitted to the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Rhino Ark has called for the immediate suspension of the airstrip project, arguing that it poses a serious threat to wildlife populations within the Mount Kenya ecosystem, particularly elephants that depend on the forest as a refuge during the dry season. The organisation says the airstrip is being constructed in an ecologically sensitive section of the Upper Imenti Forest without an Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA), public participation or a NEMA licence. At the centre of Rhino Ark’s concerns is the location of the proposed airstrip. According to the conservation group, the site lies within one of Mount Kenya’s most important elephant habitats and is situated near a known elephant maternity area where females give birth and raise calves. The forest also forms part of a vital wildlife corridor linking Mount Kenya to rangelands and conservation areas in northern Kenya. Conservationists warn that increased aircraft activity, road construction, human presence and associated infrastructure could disrupt elephant movement patterns that have existed for generations. “Upper Imenti supports one of the highest concentrations of elephants on Mount Kenya during the dry season,” Rhino Ark said in its submission. Meru National Park | Courtesy Population surveys conducted by the Wildlife Conservation Society, Kenya Wildlife Service, Mount Kenya Trust and Rhino Ark estimate that Mount Kenya is home to between 1,900 and 2,600 elephants. The animals play a crucial ecological role by dispersing seeds, opening forest pathways and maintaining ecosystem health. Conservationists fear that disturbing key elephant habitats could have cascading impacts across the wider ecosystem. Beyond elephants, Rhino Ark says the proposed airstrip threatens a globally significant biodiversity landscape. Mount Kenya hosts more than 880 recorded plant species, including 81 species found nowhere else on Earth. The ecosystem also supports endangered wildlife such as black rhinos, bongos and leopards, alongside numerous forest-dependent bird species. The mountain is internationally recognised as an Important Bird Area and a biodiversity hotspot whose ecological value extends far beyond Kenya’s borders. Rhino Ark warned that decades of investment in wildlife conservation could be undermined by the project. Over the past 14 years, the organisation has invested more than Sh1 billion in protecting the Mount Kenya ecosystem, including the construction of 54 kilometres of electric fencing around Upper and Lower Imenti forests to reduce human-wildlife conflict, curb illegal forest activities and secure critical habitats. Conservationists argue that building major infrastructure in the heart of a protected forest risks reversing those gains. The organisation also questioned the need for a new airstrip inside a protected ecosystem when Gaitu Airstrip already exists about 14 kilometres from Meru Town. Rhino Ark says upgrading the existing facility would provide aviation access without sacrificing critical wildlife habitat. Elephant in Meru National Park | Courtesy While the debate has largely focused on forest clearing and legal compliance, environmental groups increasingly argue that the bigger issue is the long-term fragmentation of wildlife habitat. Large mammals such as elephants require extensive, connected landscapes to move between feeding grounds, breeding areas and seasonal refuges. Scientists have long warned that infrastructure developments that cut through wildlife corridors can isolate populations, increase human-wildlife conflict and undermine conservation efforts. The Upper Imenti Forest forms part of the wider Mount Kenya ecosystem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Kenya’s most important conservation landscapes. It also serves as a critical ecological buffer supporting water catchments that feed the Tana and Ewaso Nyiro river systems. Rhino Ark further argues that the project contradicts Kenya’s environmental and climate commitments, including the National Climate Change Action Plan, the Forest Conservation and Management Act, Vision 2030 and the country’s obligations under the Paris Agreement. “The airstrip under construction will contribute to, instead of combating, climate change by causing deforestation and forest degradation,” the organisation stated. The opposition extends beyond Rhino Ark. Conservation organisations, including the Conservation Alliance of Kenya, Mount Kenya Trust, the Wildlife Conservation Society and Nature Kenya have previously raised concerns over developments that threaten protected forests, wildlife corridors and Important Bird Areas. Community forest associations and environmental activists have also voiced alarm over forest clearing linked to the project. The controversy comes amid growing scrutiny of infrastructure developments within protected ecosystems. Conservation groups have previously challenged proposals affecting forests such as Karura, Ngong Road Forest, South Western Mau, Eastern Mau and parts of the Aberdare ecosystem, arguing that encroachment threatens Kenya’s biodiversity and climate resilience goals. Critics warn that permitting an airstrip inside Upper Imenti Forest could establish a dangerous precedent for future infrastructure projects in protected forests and wildlife habitats across the country. By the time of publication, NEMA had not publiclyContinue Reading

]]> c41af6fbec9e53539ad416b0fbbab517 https://big3africa.org/?p=6600 Tue, 16 Jun 2026 07:10:29 +0300 Climate Change, Pollution Fuel Africa's Growing Allergy Crisis, Health Experts Warn Climate change, worsening air pollution and rapid urbanisation are driving a surge in allergic diseases across Africa, prompting health experts to call for urgent action to strengthen allergy care and build climate-resilient health systems. As the continent marks World Allergy Week 2026 from June 21 to 27 under the theme “Allergy Care is Essential Care,” the African Alliance for Allergy and Clinical Immunology has warned that millions of Africans are increasingly exposed to environmental conditions that heighten the risk of asthma, eczema, allergic rhinitis and other allergic diseases. Health specialists say changing weather patterns, rising temperatures, prolonged droughts, floods, dust storms and growing levels of air pollution are altering the distribution and intensity of allergens, creating new public health challenges across the continent. “Allergic diseases are among the most common chronic conditions in the world and Africa is not exempt. What is different here is the system around the patient,” said Professor Mike Levin, founding president of AFRICALLI and head of paediatric allergy at the University of Cape Town. Experts say climate change is an emerging health crisis. Rising temperatures can lengthen pollen seasons, while changing rainfall patterns influence the growth of moulds and other allergens. Increased air pollution from traffic, industries, open waste burning and wildfire smoke can also worsen respiratory illnesses and trigger severe asthma attacks. Across Africa, healthcare professionals are reporting growing numbers of children and adults diagnosed with asthma, eczema, food allergies and allergic rhinitis. The increase coincides with rapid urban growth, environmental degradation and declining air quality in many cities. In Kenya, asthma remains one of the most common chronic respiratory diseases, affecting thousands of children and adults. Yet many patients struggle to access inhalers consistently, while specialist allergy services remain concentrated in urban centres. Health experts warn that climate-related events such as dust storms, prolonged dry spells and flooding could further aggravate respiratory conditions. Floods often create damp conditions that encourage mould growth in homes and schools, while droughts increase airborne dust particles that can trigger allergic reactions. Food allergies are also becoming a growing concern, particularly among children. However, limited awareness among parents, schools and healthcare providers means many cases remain undiagnosed or are mistaken for other illnesses. The burden extends beyond allergies. Immunologic disorders, including inherited immune deficiencies, frequently go undetected due to limited diagnostic capacity across the region. According to AFRICALLI, allergic and immunologic diseases contribute to school absenteeism, reduced workplace productivity and avoidable hospital admissions. In severe cases, they can lead to life-threatening emergencies such as anaphylaxis. In February, Cyclone Gezani devastated Toamasina, the second-largest city in Madagascar. Climate change is increasing the intensity and frequency of cyclones. | Courtesy Health Policy Watch For vulnerable populations already facing climate-related health risks, the consequences can be significant. Children with poorly controlled asthma may be more susceptible to worsening air quality, while families affected by floods and poor housing conditions may face greater exposure to mould and other environmental allergens. Kenya has emerged as a regional leader in allergy advocacy and specialist training through the efforts of the Allergy Society of Kenya (ASK) and local medical professionals. Dr Evelyn Nganga, President of ASK and AFRICALLI Vice President for Communication and Member Engagement, said stronger investment in allergy services would improve health outcomes and help communities adapt to emerging climate-related health threats. “When allergies are properly diagnosed and managed, people are safer medically and can live, learn and work with greater confidence. That is achievable if we treat allergy as essential care, invest in medical professionals and listen to patients,” she said. Currently, many healthcare workers receive limited formal training in allergy diagnosis and management. Access to essential diagnostic tools such as spirometry and allergy testing remains limited in many parts of Africa. To address the growing challenge, AFRICALLI is urging governments to integrate allergy and clinical immunology services into national health strategies while recognising the links between environmental change and public health. The alliance is also calling for expanded specialist training, improved access to diagnostic tools and medicines, stronger food-labelling regulations and increased investment in African research. Researchers say better data is needed to understand how climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution and urbanisation are influencing allergic diseases across different regions of Africa. Historically, health systems have focused largely on infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS. However, experts warn that non-communicable diseases linked to environmental and climate pressures are becoming an increasingly significant burden. As African countries invest billions in climate adaptation and resilience programmes, public health specialists argue that allergy care should be recognised as part of climate adaptation planning. “Climate change is reshaping the health risks facing African communities,” health experts say. “Strengthening allergy care, improving air quality and reducing environmental pollution are part of the same response to a changing climate.” AFRICALLI is calling for coordinated action among governments, health institutions, researchers, educators, environmental agencies and the media to ensure that allergy care becomes an accessible and essential component ofContinue Reading

]]> 040eb7d060ca809c013b7f2ec291f57e https://big3africa.org/?p=6592 Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:34:35 +0300 Ancient Maya Knowledge Helps Guatemalan Farmers Cut Agrochemical Use By Mark Hillsdon In the mountain villages of Guatemala’s Western Highlands, farmers are combining ancient Maya knowledge with modern sustainable farming techniques to protect their crops from pests and disease. They are creating homemade biopesticides using plants with strong smells and flavors to deter pests on their family plots. This is helping to cut back on the use of increasingly expensive agrochemicals, many of which have been labeled as dangerous to human health and linked to soil degradation. About 60 Guatemalan communities in the Western Highland departments of Sololá and Huehuetenango, as well as Chiquimula in the east, are working to revive these traditional techniques with support from the international development organization World Neighbors. Their focus is to restore and strengthen traditional knowledge, combining it with agroecological practices that help families produce surplus food they can sell to boost household incomes. “Traditional farming techniques are becoming popular because they are simple practices to apply, use local resources, and have proven to be effective,” Dayani Roche, a program associate at World Neighbors, told Mongabay via email. Rather than a single ancient recipe, farmers are using “a living combination of ancestral knowledge, local experimentation and more recent agroecological practices,” he said, which are “safer for families, soil, water and biodiversity than many chemical alternatives.” The Maya civilization, which once stretched across modern-day Central America, had a rich history of farming dating back to 2000 B.C.E. Its most celebrated agricultural system is the milpa, a form of intercropping that involves a mix of maize, beans, and squash, each mutually benefiting the other. The maize provides support for the beans, which in turn fix nitrogen into the soil, while the squash acts as weed-suppressing mulch. Preparation of homemade insecticides. | Courtesy World Neighbors. There’s also evidence of early biopesticide use, including painting a mixture of burnt lime and water around the base of fruit trees to deter pests from climbing the trunk. In modern-day Guatemala, the whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) is among the most common pests, attacking crops such as tomatoes, beans, and cucumbers. Maize is particularly vulnerable to fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) infestations, while coffee plants are targeted by the coffee berry borer (Hypothenemus hampei), which damages the bean and its quality. Fungal infections include gomosis (Phytophthora), which can decimate avocado, citrus, and other fruit trees, while green mold (Aspergillus and Penicillium) mainly affects stored grains and poses the additional risk of producing mycotoxins, which can be dangerous to humans. Roche also spoke to Mongabay on behalf of farmers from different communities. Jorge Letona, a farmer in the municipality of San Lucas Tolimán, Sololá, has been using biopesticides and organic fertilizers for about 40 years. “I learned it from my grandfather and my father,” he said. “I’ve tried to make everything I produce organic, for my health and that of my family.” Strong-smelling concoctions that include garlic, chili and ginger are among the most common natural deterrents, which, when mixed with water, form a pesticide that can be sprayed onto plants. José Bixcul’s farm in the village of Quixayá, Sololá, was recently hit by a plague of zompopas (Atta cephalotes), a type of leafcutter ant that strips the leaves from vegetables such as beans and cucumbers. “[It] left me with nothing in a day,” Bixcul said. To prevent further attacks, he used a mixture of chili, garlic and cinnamon, which he sprayed on the crops, while also adding other strong-smelling plants to his plot, such as rue (Ruta graveolens), to bolster defenses. While some Guatemalan farmers can draw on old family recipes, others seek support from organizations such as World Neighbors to develop their own biopesticides. Training is an important part of this work, Roche said, because to be effective, biopesticides must be applied consistently; when done so, they can help reduce infestation by as much as 90%. World Neighbors holds workshops to show farmers how to crush the bark, leaves and flowers of a range of endemic plants, diluting the juices with water, to create a range of natural pesticides. So far, more than 6,000 families have taken part. By using freely available plants and water, Roche said, the main expense with making biopesticides is labor; they cost around a sixth of the price of industrial pesticides. Other research has also shown that biopesticides “can be easily sourced without the need for expensive chemicals.” One of the most commonly used plants is chichicaste (Urera baccifera), a native shrub covered in stinging hairs. The plant can grow up to 4 meters (13 feet) high. In addition to being used in local medicine as an analgesic and anti-inflammatory, its leaves can be fermented to create a pesticide that deters insects like aphids, while also preventing fungal infections and promoting root growth. Also widespread is flor de muerto (Tagetes erecta), whose bright yellow flowers are traditionally used in religious ceremonies. Mixed with soapy water and left to steep for two days, the infusion can be sprayed on plants as a natural insect repellent; planted around the edge of a plot, the plant works as a living barrier. In Huehuetenango, farmers rely on organic solutions obtained via traditional methods to fight pests. | Courtesy World Neighbors. Increasingly, farmers are also using natural fertilizers derived from livestock manure and vermicomposting (earthworms breaking down organic waste) to further reduce their costs, Roche said. How and why agrochemicals came to be used in Guatemala The use of agrochemicals boomed in Guatemala in the 1950s during the so-called Green Revolution, when U.S. interests began to move into the country’s agricultural sector. This introduced more industrialized farming techniques, which included an increase in the use of chemicals. By the 1970s, Roche said, artificial inputs were being strongly linked to issues such as economic dependence, human health, and soil degradation. According to the U.N. Environment Program, around 25% of Guatemala is degraded and overexploited due to a mixture of unsustainable agricultural practices such as monocultures and chemical use. Bixcul is among those farmers concerned about the impact of conventional insecticides on soil fertility. “The soils do not renew themselves,” he said, “chemicals also contaminate water sources,” and in the long term, affect the health of those applying them. Guatemala began to move away from excessive chemical use in the 1990s due to a growth in international demand for more organically grown produce. Today, although Guatemala’s annual pesticide use has dropped from around 22,900 metric tons in 2007 to 13,000 metric tons in 2023, a quantity below that of many of its Central American neighbors. The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has warned that high reliance on chemicals poses severe risks to the country’s ecosystem health and vulnerable Indigenous communities. While many chemicals have been banned in the EU and U.S., including a small group called highly hazardous pesticides (HHPs), many are still openly available across Latin America, threatening ecosystems and reducing the nutritional value of food. “The advantage [of biopesticides] over chemical insecticides is that they break down very quickly, so they don’t persist in the environment for long,” Alexander Stuart, international project manager for agroecology at Pesticide Action Network (PAN) UK, told Mongabay in an interview. Stuart said he believes that with the right training and more awareness of the potential health issues, farmers will make the switch to less hazardous alternatives. The FAO is also looking to make this easier by helping governments fast-track biopesticide registration and speed up availability. But, Stuart said, things can’t be rushed. “You can’t just directly transfer from a chemical-intensive system to an ecological system,” he said. “It’s [about] more than switching from one input to another.” Natural solutions typically only work if they’re used as part of an integrated approach, Stuart said, and need a supportive environment to be most effective. This includes healthy soils and, in places like Guatemala, traditional farming techniques such as crop rotation and intercropping. “Avoiding chemical pesticides and increasing plant diversity encourages natural enemies of crop pests that help to keep pest populations under control,” Stuart said. Globally, there’s also evidence that pests are becoming resistant to industrial insecticides, often because dosages are poorly applied or incomplete. Letona, the Guatemalan farmer, has seen this firsthand, with neighbors having to repeatedly fumigate their plots against coffee leaf rust, as one dose of fungicide is no longer enough to manage the problem. Bixcul has seen the same with farmers using several chemical doses to control whitefly populations. Many synthetic pesticides are nondiscriminatory too and can prove equally lethal to bees and other pollinating insects. Meanwhile, chemical sprays can inadvertently spread to crops that are being grown organically, preventing them from receiving certification. Biopesticides are quickly moving from a niche market to a mainstream component of pest management, with the global market projected to grow from $9.91 billion in 2025 to $40.61 billion in 2034. They are also recognized as an important element of integrated pest management, used with conventional chemical pesticides to offer pest control with a lower environmental impact. Sensing a business opportunity, global agrochemical companies are also moving into biopesticides and buying up smaller manufacturing companies. While this will help to scale up production and bring down costs, natural solutions made up just 10% of the market in 2023, according to a study. Bixcul said some farmers continue to buy insecticides and herbicides “because they give quick results.” He cites the widespread use of Paraquat, also marketed as Gramoxone, to kill weeds: “They do not think about the consequences. What I do is take them out by hand using my hoe; it costs a little more time, but it is better because I don’t pollute and I take care of my plot.” Courtesy of Mongabay: https://news.mongabay.com/2026/06/ancient-maya-knowledge-helps-guatemalan-farmerContinue Reading

]]> ec2f8b8b049f283f8ec79d9c758e2c49 https://big3africa.org/?p=6584 Mon, 15 Jun 2026 10:07:18 +0300 Konza Technopolis Wildlife Conservancy Intergration Konza Technopolis, Kenya’s flagship smart city project popularly known as the “Silicon Savannah,” has achieved a major milestone after securing provisional registration as a wildlife conservancy from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). The registration makes Konza the first purpose-built smart city in Africa to incorporate a formally recognized wildlife conservancy within its urban development framework, setting a new benchmark for sustainable city planning on the continent. The conservancy covers 404.69 hectares (approximately 1,000 acres). The protected area forms a central pillar of the Technopolis master plan, which has reserved one-fifth of its 5,000-acre development area as a wildlife corridor to safeguard biodiversity amid rapid urban growth. Provisionally registered for a minimum of 15 years under KWS regulations, the conservancy will operate under a comprehensive management plan designed to protect wildlife habitats while supporting sustainable development. Technopolis Development Authority Chief Executive Officer John Paul Okwiri described the registration as proof that economic transformation, technological advancement and environmental stewardship can coexist. Konza City aerial shot | Courtesy “Konza is demonstrating that conservation and innovation are not competing priorities but complementary elements of a world-class smart city,” he said. The conservancy lies within the Athi-Kapiti Ecosystem, one of Kenya’s most important wildlife dispersal landscapes outside Nairobi National Park. The ecosystem serves as a critical migratory corridor linking Nairobi National Park to the Amboseli-Kilimanjaro ecosystem and supports a rich diversity of wildlife. Among the species found within the area are the endangered Grey Crowned Crane, the critically endangered Rüppell’s Griffon and White-backed Vultures, as well as Maasai Giraffes, zebras and gazelles. Conservationists note that vultures play an especially important ecological role by removing animal carcasses from the environment, helping prevent the spread of disease and maintaining ecosystem health. Protecting habitat within Konza therefore contributes directly to the resilience of the wider Athi-Kapiti landscape. Beyond conservation, the wildlife conservancy is expected to generate new economic opportunities through eco-tourism, wildlife research, environmental education and climate-finance initiatives. The protected landscape could also support carbon-credit projects and attract environmentally conscious investors seeking sustainable development opportunities. As part of its long-term vision, Konza plans to establish an 80-acre Luxury Eco-Living Zone featuring eco-lodges and villas integrated into the natural environment, offering residents and visitors a unique blend of modern living and wildlife conseContinue Reading

]]> 212e75e0d68af88fa9d3fddea13634dc https://big3africa.org/?p=6554 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 09:13:30 +0300 Kenya Stakes Sh124.8bn on Climate Action as Crisis Deepens Kenya’s 2026/2027 national budget has allocated Sh124.8 billion to the environment, water and natural resources sector, positioning climate action as a central pillar of national planning. But as the country braces for El Niño this year and early 2027, recurring droughts, and more destructive floods, a central question persists: whether the allocation is sufficient for the scale and speed of the crisis unfolding on the ground. The funding package is broad in scope covering water infrastructure, forest restoration, carbon markets, climate adaptation systems, waste management reforms and agricultural resilience programmes. Yet the scale of recent climate impacts offers a sobering benchmark for comparison. During recent rains, floods have displaced thousands of households, destroyed infrastructure across Nairobi, Mai Mahiu, Garissa and the Lake Victoria basin, and left hundreds dead nationwide. Drought cycles in northern and eastern Kenya have repeatedly wiped out livestock, strained water systems and deepened food insecurity. Against this backdrop, the budget raises as much scrutiny as it does optimism. At the centre of the allocation is Sh51.5 billion for water and sewerage infrastructure, by far the largest single component. The government has prioritised expansion of irrigation systems, water storage and catchment protection, alongside flagship investments such as the Thwake Dam project. Borehole drilling and small water pan development are also expected to expand in arid and semi-arid counties including Turkana, Marsabit, Wajir, Garissa and Mandera. Parliament during budget reading June 11, 2026 | Courtesy of Parliament Yet water engineers and climate planners have long warned that Kenya’s hydrological stress is accelerating faster than infrastructure expansion. With aquifers depleting, rainfall patterns shifting, and flood events becoming more intense, questions remain over whether current investments can meaningfully close the widening water deficit gap. Forestry has been allocated Sh13.4 billion, with an additional Sh1.7 billion for research, anchored on the government’s 15 Billion Tree Programme and the national ambition to reach 30 percent tree cover. Restoration efforts span the Cherangany Hills, Lake Naivasha basin and Lake Victoria catchment, alongside county-level agroforestry programmes. But here too, the scale challenge is evident. Kenya loses tens of thousands of hectares of forest cover annually through encroachment, logging and land-use pressure. While tree planting campaigns have accelerated, critics argue that survival rates, maintenance funding and long-term ecosystem restoration remain under-resourced relative to the scale of degradation. The budget also marks a strategic pivot toward carbon markets, with the government working on a regulatory framework to formalise carbon credit trading. The ambition is to monetise Kenya’s renewable energy base, forests and conservation landscapes through international climate finance systems. However, analysts caution that carbon markets remain volatile and heavily dependent on global demand, pricing structures and verification systems that many developing countries struggle to fully control. While counties such as Nakuru, Baringo, Kajiado, Narok and Laikipia stand to benefit from geothermal, wind and conservation-linked credits, the long-term revenue certainty of carbon finance remains uncertain compared to traditional development funding. In climate adaptation, the government is investing in early warning systems, weather forecasting infrastructure and disaster preparedness. This includes the installation of automatic weather stations and expansion of meteorological monitoring networks across multiple counties. Yet recent flood disasters have exposed gaps not only in forecasting, but in response systems, evacuation planning and urban drainage infrastructure, particularly in rapidly growing cities. The question is not only whether early warnings exist, but whether institutional response capacity is keeping pace. Agricultural resilience is also a major focus, with crop insurance being expanded to all 47 counties. The programme is designed to cushion farmers from climate-induced losses, especially in maize and horticultural zones in Rift Valley, Central and parts of Eastern Kenya. Still, agriculture remains one of the most climate-exposed sectors in the country, and insurance alone does not address underlying vulnerabilities such as soil degradation, rainfall variability and market shocks. Waste management and circular economy reforms, including recycling systems and material recovery facilities in urban centres, add another layer to the climate response. But urban pollution, plastic waste and landfill pressures continue to rise faster than formal waste infrastructure can absorb, particularly in Nairobi. The broader picture emerging from the budget is one of expansion with more programmes, more frameworks, more institutional interventions. But it also reveals a tension between policy ambition and climate reality. In that context, Sh124.8 billion may represent a significant commitment in fiscal terms, but whether it is proportionate to the accelerating scale of climate risk remains an open and urgeContinue Reading

]]> a263e4d85f79e222ccc82969b11ad8fc https://big3africa.org/?p=6547 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 08:39:49 +0300 KMD Forecast El Niño Will Bring Mixed Weather Conditions Across Kenya The Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD) has announced that El Niño’s effects in Kenya are expected to vary by season and regions. The June-July-August (JJA) seasonal forecast indicates that the Highlands West of the Rift Valley, the Lake Victoria Basin, the Rift Valley and parts of northwestern Kenya are likely to receive near-average to below-average rainfall during the June-August season. In contrast, the Coast is expected to experience near-average to above-average rainfall, while Nairobi, the Highlands East of the Rift Valley and some highland areas of Marsabit and Taita Taveta counties may experience occasional cool and cloudy conditions accompanied by light rainfall. The department further noted that most southeastern lowland areas and northeastern Kenya are expected to remain largely sunny and dry during the period. Temperatures across most parts of the country are forecast to remain warmer than average, a development that could increase water stress in already dry regions and affect agricultural activities. However, meteorologists say the greatest concern lies later in the year. KMD noted that El Niño is generally associated with enhanced rainfall during the October-November-December (OND) short-rains season, often increasing the risk of flooding, landslides and other weather-related disasters. The agency is also monitoring conditions in the Indian Ocean, where the Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD) currently remains neutral. Climate models suggest it is likely to remain neutral through June but could shift to a positive phase later in the year. Director of the Kenya Meteorological Department, David Gikungu at a past event. | Courtesy @MeteoKenya/X According to KMD, a combination of El Niño and a positive IOD has historically amplified rainfall over Kenya, potentially leading to wetter-than-normal conditions during the OND season. “It is important to note that the influence of El Niño does not occur in isolation,” the department said, adding that the IOD can significantly modulate the impacts of El Niño across East Africa. The forecast comes as memories remain fresh of previous El Niño episodes that triggered widespread flooding, infrastructure damage and displacement in several parts of the country. KMD emphasized that forecasts remain subject to change as new climate data becomes available but urged the public, farmers, disaster management agencies and county governments to closely monitor official weather advisories and begin preparedness planning. The department said it will continue issuing monthly updates on both El Niño and IOD conditions and expects to release its national forecast for the October-November-December 2026 rainy season in late August or early September. “KMD remains committed to providing timely weather and climate information to safeguard lives, livelihoods and property through proactive planning and coordinated responContinue Reading

]]> 22a59035c25b49fccb096f25b47ee828 https://big3africa.org/?p=6531 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 08:12:53 +0300 El Niño Starts, Putting Preparedness Efforts in Focus The long-anticipated El Niño has officially arrived, prompting renewed attention on countries preparedness ahead of what could become a powerful climate event. The U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) confirmed on June 11, 2026, that El Niño conditions are now present in the tropical Pacific Ocean, marking the official start of a phenomenon that forecasters expect to strengthen significantly in the coming months. According to NOAA’s El Niño Advisory, rapidly warming sea surface temperatures in the equatorial Pacific have reached levels consistent with the climate pattern, with a 63 percent chance that the event could attain “very strong” status between November 2026 and January 2027. “El Niño conditions are present and expected to strengthen in the coming months,” NOAA said, warning that the phenomenon could influence weather extremes, temperatures, rainfall patterns and storm activity across many parts of the world. Historically in East Africa, strong El Niño events have been linked to above-normal rainfall across parts of the region, often resulting in floods, landslides, displacement of communities, outbreaks of water-borne diseases and damage to infrastructure. Scientists say the emerging El Niño is being driven by unusually warm ocean waters and a substantial buildup of heat beneath the Pacific surface. The phenomenon occurs when sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific become significantly warmer than average, disrupting atmospheric circulation and altering weather patterns across the globe. The development is being closely watched in East Africa, where memories of previous El Niño episodes remain vivid. The 1997-98 El Niño, one of the strongest on record, triggered devastating floods across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and other parts of the region, causing widespread destruction of roads, bridges, homes and agricultural land. Climate experts note that while El Niño often increases the likelihood of wetter-than-normal conditions in East Africa, impacts can vary considerably depending on local weather systems and the timing of seasonal rains. As a result, forecasters are urging caution against assuming that all areas will experience the same outcomes. The World Meteorological Organization has also warned that the developing El Niño could increase the risk of extreme weather events worldwide. The agency says advances in seasonal forecasting now provide countries with valuable lead time to prepare communities, protect infrastructure and safeguard livelihoods before severe impacts occur. Beyond East Africa, El Niño is expected to influence weather patterns across multiple continents, bringing increased rainfall to some regions while contributing to drought conditions in others, including parts of Australia, Indonesia and Asia. The phenomenon is also known to elevate global temperatures, raising the possibility that 2027 could rank among the warmest years ever recorded if the event reaches its projectedContinue Reading

]]> 0ab0bebbc11bc28888641f236abd89af https://big3africa.org/?p=6530 Fri, 12 Jun 2026 07:51:55 +0300 Seed Savers Push to Protect Indigenous Seeds as Kenya Revises Seed Laws By James Wakibia Farmers and conservation groups are intensifying efforts to protect indigenous seeds, warning that the country is losing critical crop diversity needed for long-term food security. Led by Nakuru Seed Savers, a network of farmers involved in seed conservation, the seed advocates say they are working to preserve traditional crop varieties that are increasingly disappearing from farms and local seed systems. They describe the initiative as a response to a growing biodiversity crisis in agriculture, where indigenous crops are being replaced by a narrow range of commercial varieties. According to research by the Seed Savers Network, more than 30 traditional crop varieties have been lost over the past 20 years across 10 surveyed villages, raising concerns about the resilience of Kenya’s food systems. A representative from the Seed Savers Network said seed saving remains central to conservation efforts. “The only way we can continue conserving our agricultural biodiversity is through seed saving,” the representative said. Samples of indigenous seeds at Seed Savers Network | Courtesy James Wakibia Agricultural experts and farmer groups say the decline in traditional crop varieties is weakening the country’s ability to withstand climate shocks such as droughts, floods and erratic rainfall. They argue that genetic diversity in crops is essential for adapting to changing environmental conditions and reducing dependence on a limited number of commercial seeds. For years, Kenya’s seed regulations have largely favoured commercial seed systems, with critics saying they sidelined traditional farmer-managed seed practices. Some farmer-led seed exchange systems were effectively restricted under the Seed and Plant Varieties Act, creating tensions between formal seed regulation and informal seed systems that dominate rural agriculture. A turning point came on November 27 last year when the High Court declared parts of the Seed and Plant Varieties Act unconstitutional, opening the way for legal reforms. Following the court ruling, government agencies and research institutions say there is now a policy shift aimed at formally recognising farmer-managed seed systems within the national seed framework. Nyamongo Desterio of the Genetic Resources Research Institute (GeRRI) speaking to journalist in Nakuru | Courtesy James Wakibia Nyamongo Desterio of the Genetic Resources Research Institute (GeRRI) said the government is moving to integrate what has traditionally been considered an informal seed sector into the formal system. “The government is now, more than ever before, most committed to ensuring that what we currently commonly refer to as the informal seed sector… is mainstreamed in the seed sector and industry,” Desterio said. He noted that the informal seed sector supplies about 80 per cent of Kenya’s seeds, particularly in rural areas where access to certified commercial seed remains limited. Desterio added that indigenous seeds are key to climate resilience. “Our mandate is to conserve the genetic diversity, particularly Kenya’s genetic diversity, and the indigenous seed is part of that resource. Not just conserving, but also promoting this utilization for purposes of combating production resilience in the face of climate change,” he said. A new seed law is currently being drafted to replace the existing legislation and formally recognise farmer-managed seed systems. The proposed law is expected to protect farmers’ rights to save, use, exchange and sell seeds, while also addressing concerns over biopiracy and the use of indigenous genetic resources. Samples of indigenous seeds at Seed Savers Network | Courtesy James Wakibia Farmer groups say the reforms would also ease access to seeds for rural communities that often travel long distances or pay high prices for commercial seed inputs. A representative from the Seed Savers Network said the reforms would reduce costs for small-scale farmers. “Farmers who live very far from the shops in the villages don’t have to travel… they don’t have to pay a lot of money,” the representative said. Across Kenya, more than 124 community seed banks have been established as part of efforts to conserve indigenous seed varieties. The seed banks are used to store, exchange and document traditional crops, and are supported by volunteers commonly referred to as seed ambassadors, who promote awareness and training on seed preservation. As the new seed law undergoes public participation and parliamentary review, farmer groups and conservation networks are calling for stronger legal protection of farmer rights and indigenous seed systems. They say the reforms could also create economic opportunities for small-scale seed producerContinue Reading

]]> f31772250ab03bdabc9100528dc5b823 https://big3africa.org/?p=6442 Thu, 11 Jun 2026 07:27:04 +0300 How Nairobi's Poor Infrastructure Fails Persons with Disabilities By Elvine Ouma Stepping out of her house during the 2024 Nairobi floods, Andy felt like preparing for battle. “The water is unpredictable,” she explains. “Sometimes it’s ankle-deep, sometimes it’s waist-high for me, and I don’t always know what’s underfoot.” Andy is a person of short stature and a resident of Kibera, Nairobi’s largest informal settlement, built along the banks of the Ngong River, where poor drainage, uncollected garbage, and decades of deferred infrastructure investment mean that every long rainy season brings the same crisis, and the same people are left to manage it alone. During the March–May 2024 long rains season, the scale of that crisis was impossible to ignore. The floods led to 294 fatalities across Kenya and displaced approximately 55,000 households. In Nairobi County alone, an estimated 31,015 people across informal settlements, including Kibera, Mukuru kwa Njenga, Viwandani, and Kayole, were affected, largely because of poor and blocked drainage systems. Nairobi accounted for 77 per cent of all displacement in the country. For persons with disabilities, the floods brought a set of compounding crises, physical, financial, economic, and bodily, that the city’s disaster response was completely unprepared to address. Elina, who uses crutches to walk, lost them to the floodwaters one morning. “The current just swept them away,” she recalls. “Without my crutches, I couldn’t go to work. I was stuck for days trying to figure out how to replace them.” Nairobi streets barely factor in people with disability accessibilty. | Courtesy Maria, a wheelchair user, described navigating streets turned into rivers of murky water, concealing potholes, broken bottles, and sharp metal debris. “I can’t risk wheeling through that,” she says. “On top of that, the blocked roads from garbage make it feel like the city has turned against us.” For persons with disabilities, losing an assistive device is not only an inconvenience, but also a financial and logistical emergency. Wheelchairs, crutches, and hearing aids are expensive, difficult to source, and time-consuming to replace or repair, often taking weeks. During that time, a person may be unable to work, access healthcare, or leave their home safely. Andy knows this pressure intimately. “During the rains, my boss gives me that look, the one that says, ‘maybe you’re not cut out for this,'” she said. “I can’t risk losing my job, but I also can’t risk my life trying to wade through this mess.” The threat to her livelihood did not end there. During one attempt by a stranger to help her navigate the floods, Andy lost her purse, containing her phone, cash, and house keys, in the chaos of an uncoordinated rescue. She was also groped. This is not an isolated incident. Andy described being lifted and carried by men without her consent on multiple occasions. “They mean well, but I feel humiliated and unsafe,” she said. “If only they’d ask, I could explain how to help without violating my dignity.” What presents itself as assistance can, without consent or guidance, become harassment. “Most people don’t realise how their actions can harm us,” she said. “Even well-meaning help can turn into humiliation.” Christine’s Commute: An Unseen Reality of Inaccessibility in Nairobi | Courtesy Mungai Kinyanjui Kenya’s Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, which came into effect in May 2025, replacing the 2003 Act, contains explicit protections for persons with disabilities in disaster contexts. Section on situations of risk states that persons with disabilities have the right to protection in situations of risk, including natural disasters, and requires every institution, whether public or private, to maintain an inventory of all persons with disabilities within its establishment and submit that inventory to national and county governments and agencies responsible for disaster management. A UNPRPD situational analysis found that the existing shock-responsive social protection system fails to consider or support persons with disabilities during emergencies, and that organisations of persons with disabilities have had inadequate involvement in emergency response planning. The same analysis found significant gaps in the inclusion of persons with disabilities in emergency preparedness and response, as well as in climate change mitigation processes. Mary Murwa, a disability rights advocate, is clear about what needs to change. She is calling on the Nairobi City County government to invest in proper drainage systems across informal settlements, establish a fund for emergency replacement of assistive devices, ensure persons with disabilities are included in all disaster planning and response committees, and conduct public education campaigns on disability etiquette, especially, how to offer assistance that respects dignity and seeks consent. Big3 Africa reached out to the Nairobi City County government and the State Department for Social Protection for comment on their disaster preparedness provisions for persons with disabilities. No response was received by the time of publication. Research has documented that women residing in informal settlements are especially vulnerable to climate-related events because they are more likely to experience worse health-related impacts than men, but less likely to have access to health services. For women with disabilities, these two vulnerabilities multiply. The floods of 2024 were exceptional in scale but not in nature. They exposed what has always been true that Nairobi’s infrastructure was not built with its most vulnerable residents in mind, and its disaster response has not been redesigned to correct that failure. The Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, creates a legal obligation. Nairobi County now needs to demonstrate the institutional will to meet it, before the next long rains arrive, and before more people are left to pContinue Reading

]]> dd6c91b41b2f07fe2f5183e24bfb87d8 https://big3africa.org/?p=6431 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:59:25 +0300 El Niño Threat Grows as Forecast Odds Jump to 82% The likelihood of an El Niño event developing in the coming months has risenContinue Reading

]]> 49d61d7ad308c41fa2185fdf13d27121 https://big3africa.org/?p=6421 Wed, 10 Jun 2026 12:30:27 +0300 Kenya Secures USD 700,000 Climate Loss and Damage Support Kenya has secured technical assistance worth USD 700,000 from the Santiago Network on Loss and Damage, becoming the first country in Africa to receive such support. The funding will support a comprehensive national assessment of climate-related loss and damage experienced over the past decade, aimed at strengthening evidence-based policymaking, planning, and climate resilience strategies. The announcement was made on the margins of the 64th session of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) Subsidiary Bodies (SB64) climate meetings held in Bonn, Germany. According to the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Kenya is only the second country globally to receive technical assistance under the Santiago Network mechanism, underscoring its growing role in international climate action. (3rd Left) Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno, Santiago Network representative (4th left), Elizabeth Carabine, during the Bonn negotiations. | Courtesy Capital FM The support will be used to document and analyse the impacts of climate change across sectors over the past ten years, providing critical data to guide national adaptation planning and resource mobilisation efforts. The award was formally communicated to Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno, by Santiago Network representative Elizabeth Carabine during the Bonn negotiations. Kenyan officials at the climate talks included Mamo Boru Mamo, Director General of the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), Samson Toniok, Chief Executive Officer of the National Environment Trust Fund (NETFUND), and Dr. Pacifica Ogola, Director of the Climate Change Directorate. The Ministry said the development reinforces Kenya’s position as a regional leader in climate policy and resilience-building, particularly as countries across Africa face increasing exposure to droughts, floods, and other climate-induced disasters. The Santiago Network on Loss and Damage was established under the United Nations climate framework to provide technical assistance to vulnerable countries dealing with the irreversible impacts of climaContinue Reading

]]> 4d30795db5f1ba76e7c37f55a8d63479 https://big3africa.org/?p=6411 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 07:51:01 +0300 Can Redirecting the Congo River Bring Lake Chad Back to Life? Every morning, fishermen on the shores of Lake Chad push their wooden boats farther and farther from home as what was once water becomes dry land. In some places, villages that once sat along the lakeshore now stand kilometres away from the water’s edge. Farmers who depended on the lake’s fertile banks struggle to grow crops as herders travel longer distances in search of pasture. For millions of people across Chad, Nigeria, Niger and Cameroon, the shrinking lake is a daily reality. Now, a bold and controversial proposal aims to change that reality by attempting something never before seen in Africa: redirecting water from one of the world’s largest river systems to rescue one of its most endangered lakes. Engineers are proposing a colossal 2,400-kilometre canal that would carry water from the Congo River Basin in Central Africa to the rapidly disappearing Lake Chad. If built, the project, known as Transaqua, would rank among the most ambitious engineering undertakings in human history, effectively redrawing part of Africa’s natural geography in an effort to save a lake that has become a symbol of the continent’s climate crisis. Men on camels cross the water as a woman washes clothes in Lake Chad at Ngouboua. | File Photo VOA Half a century ago, Lake Chad stretched across roughly 25,000 square kilometres, making it one of Africa’s largest freshwater lakes. Today, it has lost nearly 90 percent of its surface area. Climate change, prolonged droughts, population growth and increasing demand for water have all contributed to its dramatic decline. The shrinking lake has had far-reaching consequences. More than 40 million people depend on its waters for fishing, farming, livestock and household use. As the water retreated, so too did livelihoods. Poverty deepened, food insecurity worsened and competition over dwindling resources intensified across the region. The US$50 billion Transaqua project, first conceived by Italian engineers in the 1980s, would divert a small portion of water flowing through tributaries of the mighty Congo River and channel it northward through the Central African Republic before releasing it into Lake Chad. Supporters see the idea as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to revive the lake and transform the economies of some of Africa’s poorest regions. Beyond restoring water levels, advocates believe the canal could create a vast economic corridor supporting irrigation, electricity generation, inland transport and trade. Some even envision cargo vessels navigating the new waterway, opening up landlocked regions to international markets. Scientists say the Lake Chad, which borders Nigeria and some other countries, has shrunken by 90 percent over the past 50 years. | Courtesy AP/Christophe Ena The project gained fresh attention when Chinese infrastructure giant PowerChina signed an agreement with the Lake Chad Basin Commission in 2016 to explore its feasibility. The Democratic Republic of the Congo, home to the Congo River, has expressed concerns about the proposal, arguing that any decision affecting the river should involve countries within the basin. Environmental groups have also raised alarms. The Congo Basin contains the world’s second-largest tropical rainforest after the Amazon and supports countless species of plants and animals. Scientists warn that altering river flows could have unintended consequences for ecosystems, fisheries and rainfall patterns across Central Africa. Critics question whether solving one environmental crisis could create another. The debate highlights a growing dilemma facing Africa as climate change accelerates. Should countries pursue mega-engineering projects to adapt to a warming world, or should they focus on restoring ecosystems and improving local water management? International partners are instead supporting smaller projects aimed at improving governance and sustainable water management around Lake Chad. Recent funding from the European Union and Germany has focused on strengthening resilience rather than digging a continent-spanning canal. But as temperatures rise and droughts become more frequent across the Sahel, the idea refuses to disappear. For the fishermen pushing their boats across an ever-expanding stretch of dry land, the debate is about whether the lake that sustained generations can survive long enough toContinue Reading

]]> 7a8c01ed6e50366cd21cd81db947e207 https://big3africa.org/?p=6404 Tue, 09 Jun 2026 07:12:13 +0300 Africa’s Green Mineral Boom Fuels Hidden Deforestation Crisis As the world accelerates toward renewable energy and electric mobility, sub-Saharan Africa has emerged as a critical supplier of the minerals needed to power the shift. These minerals, including cobalt, copper, lithium, manganese and graphite, are central to batteries, wind turbines, solar infrastructure and electric vehicles, placing the continent at the heart of the global green transition. But a new study published in Nature reveals a troubling paradox where the very mining boom fueling climate solutions is also accelerating deforestation across some of Africa’s most ecologically sensitive landscapes. The study, which analysed more than 16,000 mining sites across sub-Saharan Africa, found that mining is responsible for far more forest loss than previously understood, not only through direct clearing, but through extensive indirect impacts that radiate far beyond mine boundaries. While direct mining activity cleared an estimated 187,000 hectares of forest, researchers found that the broader ecological footprint is dramatically larger. For every hectare directly cleared, up to 34 hectares of surrounding forest were lost due to secondary pressures such as agricultural expansion, settlement growth, infrastructure development and increased human access to previously remote forest zones. Deforestation impacts were strongest within one kilometre of mining sites, where forest loss increased by as much as 8 percentage points compared to similar unmined areas, but remained detectable up to 20 kilometres away. The findings highlight a growing contradiction in the global climate agenda where the extraction of minerals essential for decarbonisation is itself contributing to environmental degradation and carbon emissions through land-use change. Deforestation in Africa in most sensitive ecological landscapes, affecting the climate even further | Courtesy Earth.org Mines producing cobalt and copper, which are key inputs for electric vehicle batteries and clean energy technologies, were among those linked to the highest levels of surrounding deforestation. This raises difficult questions for policymakers and industry leaders on whether global green transition can remain truly “green” if its supply chains are driving large-scale forest loss in biodiversity-rich regions like the Congo Basin and other tropical forest zones. The study points to a chain reaction triggered by mining operations. Once a mine is established, it draws in workers, traders, transport networks and informal settlers. Roads open previously inaccessible forests, while local food demand drives agricultural expansion into forested land. This means that what begins as an industrial extraction site often evolves into a broader land-use transformation, permanently altering ecosystems far beyond the mine pit. Africa’s role in the green transition is therefore increasingly paradoxical. On one hand, its mineral resources are indispensable for reducing global reliance on fossil fuels. On the other, the extraction of these same resources is contributing to deforestation, biodiversity loss and long-term ecological fragmentation. Environmental researchers warn that these dynamic risks shifting the environmental burden of decarbonisation onto forest-rich developing regions, even as the climate benefits are largely realised elsewhere. The study calls for a broader definition of mining’s environmental footprint to include not only direct land clearing but also the cascading effects of settlement expansion and land conversion. Experts argue that without stronger environmental governance, strategic land-use planning and stricter enforcement around mining corridors, Africa’s mineral boom could undermine the very climate goals it isContinue Reading

]]> f368e4548f5cc5c80b7da61346289ae2 https://big3africa.org/?p=6390 Mon, 08 Jun 2026 08:45:43 +0300 Schools Turn to Permaculture Farming to Cut Costs and Improve Nutrition By Mary Juma Across Western Kenya, school compounds once lined with ornamental flowers are being transformed into thriving farms as institutions turn to agriculture to cut food costs, improve student nutrition, and bring classroom learning to life. At St. Ann’s Sega Girls Primary and Junior School in Siaya County, vegetable gardens now occupy spaces that previously hosted decorative plants. Along classroom corridors, kales and spring onions flourish in suspended frame gardens and recycled polythene bags, while nearby plots support poultry and rabbits. The transformation is part of a growing movement led by the Schools and Colleges Permaculture (SCOPE) Kenya programme, which is helping schools integrate sustainable agriculture into daily learning while building resilience against rising food prices and climate-related challenges. St. Ann’s Sega Girls Principal Sister Mildred Akinyi | Courtesy Mary Juma The initiative was showcased during World Environment Day celebrations, where educators, students, and community members highlighted how schools are increasingly becoming centres of food production and environmental stewardship. For St. Ann’s Sega Girls Principal Sister Mildred Akinyi, the shift has delivered significant financial relief at a time when schools are grappling with limited government capitation and rising operational costs. “We are replacing flowers with vegetables, onions and other food crops,” she said. The school now produces nearly 85 per cent of the vegetables consumed by learners, dramatically reducing expenditure on food purchases. “When I look at the expenditures that I have right now, it is lesser compared to when we used to buy vegetables,” Akinyi said. But beyond reducing costs, the farm has become an outdoor classroom where students put the Competency-Based Education (CBE) into practice. Members of the school’s Agriculture Club spend part of their learning time producing organic fertilisers and pesticides from locally available materials. Neem leaves and rabbit urine are processed into foliar feeds that are then applied to crops across the school farm. St. Ann’s Sega Girls student Ipi Monica speaking to the press. | Courtesy Mary Juma “Once we are taught in class, we practically make the foliar feeds and apply them and see their uses practically,” said student Ipi Monica. “It is a much better advantage, and it also helps academically because it becomes easier to remember.” Nearby, students manage what they call a “rabbit village,” housing five different rabbit breeds. The project forms part of a circular farming system in which rabbit waste feeds a vermiculture unit. The resulting nutrient-rich vermi-liquid is diluted and applied to crops as fertiliser and natural pest control. Student Jane Zawadi said the integrated approach has taught learners how waste can be transformed into valuable agricultural inputs rather than becoming an environmental burden. The impact of the programme extends far beyond the school gates. Through a 14-day practical training model, SCOPE Kenya equips teachers, learners and parents with skills in agroecology, food production and sustainable land management. The goal is to create a ripple effect that spreads from schools into surrounding communities. John Macharia, a representative of SCOPE Kenya | Courtesy, Mary Juma “Our journey starts from the school, and then we walk to the community,” said John Macharia, a representative of SCOPE Kenya. According to Macharia, the programme helps interested parents organise themselves into registered self-help groups, enabling them to replicate successful school-based farming models at home while restoring degraded land and strengthening household food security. One such beneficiary is the Glorious Women Group, whose members have adopted permaculture techniques on their own farms. Today, the group’s 25 members grow indigenous African vegetables, fruits and bananas while producing their own seed stock. “Initially, we used to be given seeds, but now we harvest our own seeds from our farms, so we don’t go back to the market to buy them anymore,” said group member Elizabeth Shirandula. The benefits have been far-reaching. Surplus produce is sold to generate income for school fees, while some harvests are shared with vulnerable children and elderly members of the community. School administrators say the emphasis on indigenous African foods is not only about reducing costs and improving food security but also about promoting healthier diets. Glorious Women Group member Elizabeth Shirandula beneficiary of SCOPE Kenya | Courtesy Mary Juma Under SCOPE Kenya’s slogan, “My Food is African,” schools are encouraging learners to embrace traditional crops and organic production methods as concerns grow over lifestyle diseases linked to highly processed foods and chemical-intensive farming systems. Back at St. Ann’s Sega Girls, the ambition continues to grow. The school plans to become fully self-sufficient in poultry production by next year and is preparing to venture into aquaculture through the construction of a fish pond. For Sister Akinyi, the success of the programme offers a lesson to schools across the country: limited land should not be viewed as a barrier to food production. “It is not the land that you have, but it is the attitude,” she said. “There is nothing that is impossible.” As food prices continue to rise and climate pressures intensify, schools like St. Ann’s Sega Girls are demonstrating that classrooms can do more than educate. They can feed communities, nurture environmental stewardship, and equip the next generation with practicalContinue Reading

]]> 049798777e506651a096d79e8fe3e084 https://big3africa.org/?p=6363 Fri, 05 Jun 2026 07:30:12 +0300 Meru's Plan to Carve Up Imenti Forest Sparks Uproar Over Deforestation Fears By Waweru Wairimu A plan by the Meru County Government to excise hundreds of acres of Imenti Forest for the construction of a State Lodge, golf course and related infrastructure has triggered a fierce backlash from conservation groups, who warn the move could accelerate deforestation in one of Kenya’s most important forest ecosystems. The proposal has drawn criticism from environmentalists who argue that clearing indigenous forest land for luxury developments risks undermining national efforts to restore forest cover and combat climate change. The Green Belt Movement has emerged as one of the most vocal opponents of the project, accusing authorities of placing commercial and political interests ahead of environmental protection. “This is not development; it is thuggery dressed up as economic progress,” the organisation said in a statement protesting the planned developments. The environmental lobby further questioned the rationale of converting a protected public forest into high-end facilities, saying such projects threaten the ecological integrity of the forest. Green Belt Movement is mobilising communities to reclaim degraded landscapes in a past event. | Courtesy of Green Belt Movement “Forests are held in trust for the people of Kenya and are not personal assets to be allocated for political convenience,” the organisation said. Imenti Forest forms part of the larger Mount Kenya ecosystem and serves as a critical water catchment area feeding rivers that support agriculture, households and wildlife across Meru and neighbouring counties. Environmental experts warn that any reduction in forest cover could increase soil erosion, disrupt water flows, reduce biodiversity and weaken the area’s resilience to climate change. Beyond the immediate loss of forest land, conservationists fear the project could open the door to further encroachment and fragmentation of the ecosystem. Environmental groups say experience from other parts of the country has shown that once public forests are opened up for infrastructure and commercial projects, pressure for additional allocations often follows, leading to gradual but significant forest degradation. The controversy comes as Kenya pursues an ambitious programme to increase national tree cover to 30 per cent and restore millions of hectares of degraded landscapes. Critics argue that clearing existing forests sends a contradictory message at a time when government agencies are urging citizens, communities and private companies to plant and protect trees. The Green Belt Movement has formally sought clarification from government authorities regarding the reported plans. “The Green Belt Movement writes to you seeking urgent clarification on the alleged plan to excise part of Imenti Forest in Meru County to construct a State Lodge and a golf course,” the organisation said in a letter to forestry officials. Forest officer inspecting the electric fence at Imenti Forest in Meru. | Courtesy KTN News Meru County leaders, however, have defended the project, arguing that it is necessary to unlock the region’s economic potential and strengthen its position as an investment and tourism destination. Governor Isaac Mutuma has previously supported the development: “The golf course and State Lodge are needed, along with an airstrip, to spur the region’s agricultural and tourism sectors.” Supporters of the project argue that the facilities would attract investors, create jobs and provide infrastructure capable of hosting high-level government functions and international visitors. But conservationists insist that economic development should not come at the expense of irreplaceable natural ecosystems. The dispute is expected to intensify as environmental groups push for greater transparency on the exact acreage targeted for excision, the approvals granted for the project and the environmental impact assessments undertaken. If approved, the project would represent one of the most controversial forest excisions in recent years, reigniting long-standing concerns about the future of Kenya’s public forests and the growing pressures they face fromContinue Reading

]]> 39715d5e64e82114bd560166f0e69d23 https://big3africa.org/?p=6352 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 09:20:25 +0300 The Engineer who Shaped Kenya’s Renewable Energy Story By Moraa Obiria By the time the morning sunlight stretches across the grass beneath the wind turbine on the northern edge of the Ngong Hills, Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) has already been counting hours of generation of clean energy. “Standing on this point and seeing this wind turbine generating clean energy for the country… I feel that this is an example that all the countries need to emulate,” said Jennifer Gache, an engineer behind the turning blades and the quiet triumph of Kenya’s early wind energy ambitions. When she graduated from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in 1995 with a degree in mechanical engineering, women in engineering spaces were still rare. Entering the profession then felt like lighting a candle against a storm, she explained. Years later, figures from the Engineers Board of Kenya show just how steep that climb was. 2024 data from the Engineers Board of Kenya (EBK) shows that in Kenya’s engineering sector, women remain significantly underrepresented, accounting for only 11 per cent of registered professional engineers, while female enrolment in STEM courses at universities stands at just 22 per cent. This highlights the persistent gender gap within the country’s technical and leadership pipeline. KenGen’s Ngong Wind Farm began with two wind turbines commissioned in 1993 as a donation from the Belgian government. Before that, KenGen had spent 14 years studying the area’s favourable wind regime through experimental turbines installed on the hills in the early 1990s.  The two original turbines have long since been retired and a row of huge turbines now stands like sentinels along the ridgeline of the Ngong Hills. And Gache has carved a place for herself in an arena where few women stood before her. “You have to come and start everything from scratch,” Gache recalled of a time early on in Kenya’s wind projects when she would have to visit remote greenfield sites, vast stretches of land with little infrastructure and few signs that such ambitious projects could succeed. At a time when Kenya was still heavily reliant on conventional energy sources, Gache found herself among a few engineers pushing Kenyan institutions to take wind power seriously. “I was able to tell my story and indicate that wind power was a feasible energy source,” she said. Gache later went to Malmö, Sweden, to train in wind power technology and wind modeling, an experience that deepened her belief in renewable energy at a time when the sector was still regarded as experimental in Kenya. “When I came back with that knowledge, I was empowered to convince the organisation that we needed to balance our energy using both renewable and non-renewable sources,” she said. Jennifer Gache posing for a photo at the Ngong Wind Farm on April 7, 2026. | Courtesy Moraa Obiria, Bird Story Agency She worked as chief energy planner, overseeing supply and demand forecasts for Kenya and the wider region, conceptualizing the capital pipeline, and driving strategic planning. It was during this period that she helped lay the foundation for Kenya’s wind energy sector. “I kicked off the installation of the 5.1MW wind farm at Ngong Hills, helping establish the wind sector in the region,” she said. Today, when she stands beneath the turbines at Ngong, the achievement still feels personal. “When you come and see a project that you initiated has taken ground and is working, and people are looking at it as an example, you get so much joy,” she said. “It was very fulfilling work.” For materials engineer and entrepreneur Nzambi Matee, the experiences of women engineers reflected both progress and persistence. “The first fundamental step is investing more in development spaces for women engineers,” Nzambi said. “Sometimes you just can’t wait for that space to be given to you,” she said. “Sometimes you have to take it.” She recalled having to work significantly harder than male colleagues early in her career to be taken seriously. Gache then worked with the Ministry of Energy to establish a national wind energy map. Her footprints stretched beyond Ngong. In Bubisa in Marsabit and Loiyangalani in Turkana, she developed technical specifications for 50-metre-high wind masts distributed across 12 sites. The work often took her into isolated terrain few engineers wanted to navigate. She recalled volunteering for difficult assignments, including traveling to Loiyangalani to scout wind sites in Kenya’s north. “I’m a trailblazer,” she said with a laugh. “I have a very strong pioneer spirit. I like very tough assignments. I’m resilient, resourceful, and adaptable, and I get along with people very easily. That made it easier to initiate new things and convince people to give new ideas a chance.” Today, KenGen reports about 26 MW of installed wind energy capacity at Ngong, accounting for roughly two per cent of its total installed capacity. But for Gache, successful engineering was never just about the number of megawatts. While introducing the wind projects to local communities, she often reminded residents that development did not have to displace livelihoods. “We told the community they could still graze their cattle here,” she said. “We are generating power, but the community is still able to continue with their activities. That is what good project management is.” Jennifer Gache at the leather testing laboratory at the Kenya Bureau of Standards on 7 April 2026. | Courtesy Moraa Obiria, Bbird Story Agency Gache did not stop at wind energy. She moved into another complex and highly technical space: nuclear energy. In 2009, she coordinated a regional meeting aimed at increasing awareness among decision-makers on the requirements and challenges of developing a nuclear power program. Her work also focused on building technical capacity and helping institutions understand the infrastructure needed for nuclear energy development. “My efforts led to the establishment of NUPEA (Nuclear Power and Energy Agency), and the conversation on nuclear energy is now well established in the country,” she said. Away from policy rooms and energy planning meetings, Gache steadily became a mentor to younger women engineers navigating spaces that still often questioned their presence. She encouraged young women engineers to continuously build their skills and seek opportunities in difficult projects rather than shrinking from them. “It’s a challenging profession,” she said. “But that does not mean women cannot succeed.” In 2022, she was elected as a council member of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya (IEK), later serving as chairperson of the Women Engineers Committee from 2024 to 2025. Among the initiatives she championed was the first-ever Women Engineers Committee Summit. She also organised mentorship forums, webinars on job hunting and contract skills and networking walks that created spaces for young women engineers to connect and learn. One of the young engineers shaped by that mentorship was Linda Lichuma, a graduate civil engineer and intern at the Kenya National Highways Authority (KeNHA). Fresh from graduating from the University of Nairobi in September 2024, Lichuma found herself adjusting to the realities of engineering practice while working on a 200-kilometre road project. “Nothing really fully prepares you for how difficult it is going to be,” she said. “But what sustains you is passion and the belief that you belong in STEM.” Through Gache’s mentorship and the Women Engineers Committee, Lichuma gained access to spaces where engineers and industry professionals made decisions and shaped projects. “That opportunity showed me that young people need to be brought into rooms where decisions are made,” she said. Today, Gache works as an East African Community regional consultant for GFA Consulting Group and as a consultant for Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt, the German National Metrology Institute. Her work now focuses on strengthening regional value chains and improving industrial standards. Gache now hopes to push even further. She plans to vie for the position of treasurer of the Institution of Engineers of Kenya in the next elections, with her sights eventually set on the presidency, a position no woman has ever held within the institution. “In all this, my goal is to inspire a generation of engineers, especially women, to see no limits to what they can achieve,” she said, “while leaving behind structures that make it easier for them to succeed.” Courtesy of bird story agency: https://agency.birdstoryagency.com/stories/this-engineer-helped-shape-kenya-s-renewable-energy-story?loContinue Reading

]]> 5a20a8f9af7ce1c71735a95bf0d39cef https://big3africa.org/?p=6345 Wed, 03 Jun 2026 08:55:26 +0300 Kenya Targets $50bn in Green Deals at Africa Investment Forum Kenya will host Africa’s first Green Investment Forum later this year, seeking to mobilize more than US$50 billion (KES 6.5 trillion) in investment commitments as African countries intensify efforts to close a widening climate finance gap and attract private capital for climate action. The high-level forum comes at a time when traditional donor funding for climate action is shrinking and African nations are increasingly looking to private investors to finance adaptation, renewable energy and low-carbon development projects. Officials say the conference will mark a significant shift in how Africa approaches climate finance, moving away from dependence on grants and aid towards investment-led partnerships capable of financing large-scale green infrastructure and climate-resilient development. “The conference will serve as a continental platform for mobilizing climate capital, innovation and strategic partnerships. It will focus on unlocking investments that support low-carbon and climate-resilient development,” said Peter Odhengo, Head of the Climate Finance and Green Economy Unit at the National Treasury and Economic Planning. The forum, themed “Unlocking Scalable Green Investments for a Low-Carbon and Resilient Future,” is being organized by the National Treasury in collaboration with the Ministries of Environment, Energy and Foreign Affairs. The planned event builds on momentum generated by the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, which elevated Africa’s calls for climate justice and reforms in global financial systems. Kenyan officials now want to position the country as a regional hub for climate finance, green technology and sustainable investment. Peter Odhengo, Head of the Climate Finance and Green Economy Unit at the National Treasury and Economic Planning, at a past event. | Courtesy The announcement comes against a backdrop of mounting climate impacts across Africa. The continent is experiencing more frequent droughts, floods, heatwaves and food insecurity, yet continues to receive a disproportionately small share of global climate finance. According to government officials, Africa receives only about five percent of global climate finance flows despite contributing less than four percent of global greenhouse gas emissions and facing some of the most severe consequences of climate change. Experts have long warned that the financing shortfall is slowing investments in renewable energy, climate adaptation, resilient agriculture, water infrastructure and nature-based solutions needed to protect vulnerable communities and economies. Odhengo said the forum aims to address that gap by making African countries more attractive destinations for climate-related investments. “As a continent and as a country, we are not there to ask for aid. We are there to make ourselves attractive so that we attract investments,” he said. He noted that the global climate finance landscape is undergoing a major transformation as governments and international donors reduce available public funding while private investors and philanthropic organizations assume a larger role in financing climate projects. “Public finance is declining. If you want climate funding from governments and international organizations, your portfolio has declined. Where the money now is for climate action is private sector finance and philanthropic organizations,” Odhengo said. Government officials describe the proposed forum as an African equivalent of the World Economic Forum in Davos, focused specifically on climate and green investments. The intention, they say, is to establish a permanent platform where investors, governments, and project developers can negotiate deals and partnerships capable of unlocking billions of dollars for Africa’s green economy. “It is no longer about grants. It is business. We want to create opportunities that attract investments,” Odhengo added. As part of the initiative, Kenya is also expected to unveil plans for a new Green Investment Facility, a financing mechanism currently under development that will provide concessional capital for climate projects and green enterprises. The facility is intended to address a longstanding challenge in climate finance by ensuring that affordable funding reaches vulnerable communities, small businesses, and local climate projects that often struggle to access commercial financing. According to Odhengo, conventional banking systems are not always structured to deliver low-cost climate finance without distorting commercial lending markets, creating barriers for projects that require patient and affordable capital. “This facility will ensure that resources meant for vulnerable communities and green investments do not become expensive or inaccessible at the last mile,” he said. If successful, the forum could become one of Africa’s largest climate investment platforms, signaling a broader shift in the continent’s climate strategy from lobbying for climate assistance to competing for green capital in a rapidly expanding globalContinue Reading

]]> 618cda08b1f651d4e02ef4ade9c6bea4 https://big3africa.org/?p=6336 Tue, 02 Jun 2026 19:49:37 +0300 Bomet Biogas Project Powers Homes and Protects Forests In Kipsirat village, on the edge of Chepalungu Forest in Bomet County, Flouncy Cheruiyot strikes a match, not to spark wood fire, but to ignite a biogas flame that now lights her kitchen. After years of relying on firewood that cost her household more than Sh8,000 a month, Flouncy says her life has changed dramatically since her village embraced clean energy through a community biogas project. “I use biogas for cooking and lighting the house. The project has changed our lives completely. The time we used to go look for firewood is now diverted to other activities,” she said. Flouncy is a member of the Kipsirat Youth Group, which runs a shared biogas system powered by livestock waste from its dairy herd. The project has not only reduced dependence on the forest but also reshaped how the group farms and earns a living. At the centre of the initiative is a herd of 25 cows, kept on the farm of one member. The herd has grown from 12 animals to 25 in just two years, as the project expanded. “We are using one of our group member’s farm to run the biogas project which is currently lighting one home, but our plan is to light up seven homes from this one biogas system,” said Mike Cheruiyot, the group’s chairperson. Beyond household energy, the biogas system now powers a chaff cutter used to prepare feed for the cattle. The savings, members say, are significant. “If the chaff cutter was using fuel, the group could be spending over ten thousand shillings every week to make food for our 25 cows,” Cheruiyot said. “We use a little fuel to jump-start the machine, after which energy from the biogas takes over.” The benefits extend beyond energy and livestock. Slurry from the biogas digester is used as organic manure in the group’s greenhouse tomato project, while excess is shared among members for use in their individual farms. The shift has reduced dependence on chemical fertilisers and strengthened food production within the community. For the group, the project represents more than energy access—it is also an environmental intervention. Formed in 2007 under the Ministry of Social Services with 15 members—seven men and eight women—the group says it has since focused on restoring degraded landscapes around Chepalungu Forest. According to Flouncy, they have also raised and distributed more than one million tree seedlings, supporting forest restoration and farm planting efforts across the region. Use of Biogas in a rural setting | Courtesy The biogas initiative was further strengthened after the group secured funding through a successful proposal submitted via the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) to the Green Zone Development Support Project in 2022. The support enabled expansion of livestock numbers, installation of a biogas unit, and establishment of fodder crops. Green Zones Project Manager Jerome Mwanzia said the intervention included the provision of 10 Sahiwal cows and a bull, construction of the biogas facility, and development of fodder systems, at a cost of Sh1.25 million. A few kilometres away, however, the reality is different. In another village within the same Chepalungu Forest ecosystem, smoke drifts from Sharon Chepkemoi’s kitchen as she prepares breakfast for her children. Later, she will head into the forest to harvest grass, which she sells as animal feed and also uses for her own livestock. Unlike Flouncy’s village, Chepkemoi’s household is still dependent on firewood and traditional cooking methods. There is no organised clean energy initiative in her community to ease the pressure on the forest. She is among millions of Kenyans still exposed to household air pollution caused by wood smoke. According to the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI), more than 26,000 deaths in Kenya were attributed to hazardous air pollution last year, with warnings that the figure could rise if cleaner energy solutions are not scaled up. Globally, air pollution is linked to an estimated eight million premature deaths annually. Both communities sit within the wider Chepalungu Forest ecosystem, a landscape that has endured both destruction and recovery. Following the disputed 2007 presidential election, parts of the forest were heavily degraded as communities turned to charcoal burning, timber, and firewood harvesting in large-scale clearing. In the years that followed, deforestation contributed to worsening droughts and failed rainfall patterns across the region. Today, restoration efforts led by the Kenya Forest Service and other partners are slowly reversing the damage. A Sh40.9 million solar-powered fence covering 22.1 kilometres of the Siongiroi Forest block, funded by the African Development Bank and the Government of Kenya under the Green Zones Development Support Project Phase II, has strengthened protection and allowed natural regeneration to begin. Chepalungu Forest Station Manager Josh Patel said the violence of 2007 left a major gap in forest protection and management, but ongoing conservation work is now bearing fruit. “Community Forest Associations have been very instrumental in supporting the recovery efforts,” Patel said. As the forest regenerates, signs of recovery are becoming visible: rainfall patterns are improving, farms are becoming more productive, and communities that once depended on the destruction of the forest are now beginning to rebuild around its sContinue Reading

]]> 034e01cf6e44dffc128248dcef292f2c https://big3africa.org/?p=6306 Fri, 29 May 2026 07:29:59 +0300 How Climate, Pollution, And Inequality Are Shaping Asthma In Africa In Nairobi’s Mathare estate, 12-year-old Maina wakes each morning with one question quietly weighing on his young mind: how easily will he breathe today? On good days, he runs to school laughing. On bad days, he slows down, his chest tightening with each shallow breath. His mother has learned to read the signs as a result of the heat, dust, and smoke rising from nearby roads and cooking fires. “Hot days are the worst, and when it’s dusty, he struggles before he even gets to school,” she says. Maina’s experience is becoming common throughout Africa, as asthma and allergy cases continue to rise steadily, with health experts linking the trend to climate change, worsening air pollution, and rapid urbanisation. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Office for Africa, asthma is increasing across the continent, particularly among children, with outdoor pollution, traffic emissions, indoor smoke, and environmental allergens identified as major risk factors. A study published in The Lancet titled Child and Adolescent Health warns that millions of adolescents in sub-Saharan Africa may be living with undiagnosed asthma. The research, conducted across six countries including Uganda, Ghana, Nigeria, and South Africa, links rising symptoms to rapid urban growth and climate-related environmental changes. Africa is also warming faster than the global average, intensifying environmental health risks. Scientists increasingly describe asthma as a “climate-sensitive disease,” shaped by shifting temperatures, deteriorating air quality, and changing ecosystems. Globally, at least 400,000 people die prematurely from asthma each year, according to the WHO, with the greatest burden in low- and middle-income countries. Sandstorms in Sudan, frequently referred to as Haboobs, are intense walls of dust generated by thunderstorm downdrafts. | Courtesy Air pollution, which is closely tied to climate change, poses an even larger threat. Research published in The Lancet estimates that pollution contributes to around nine million deaths annually worldwide. In Kenya alone, about 19,000 people die every year due to air pollution exposure, while nine out of ten people breathe air that exceeds WHO safety limits. The burden is already visible in health systems. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics Economic Survey 2025, respiratory illnesses account for 30.2 per cent of the country’s 66.2 million outpatient visits recorded in 2024. These include asthma, chronic bronchitis, and other pulmonary diseases. Climate change affects asthma through multiple pathways, and there is evidence to support this. A study by researchers at the University of Cape Town found that rising temperatures, combined with pollutants such as nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) and fine particulate matter (PM2.5), significantly increase asthma attacks in children. The study, titled “The Interlinkages Between Ambient Temperature and Air Pollution in Exacerbating Childhood Asthma: A Time Series Study in Cape Town, South Africa,” was published on December 1, 2025, in the journal Children. The researchers analysed more than 7,700 hospital records alongside air quality and weather data, finding that temperature variability, PM2.5, PM10, and NO₂ were all associated with increased childhood asthma exacerbations, especially in urban areas. Even small environmental shifts matter, with studies showing that slight increases in temperature variability can lead to measurable rises in respiratory hospital admissions. At the same time, climate change is altering plant biology. Warmer temperatures and rising carbon dioxide levels are increasing pollen production and extending pollen seasons. According to Professor Mike Levin, a medical specialist and academic in the field of paediatrics and allergy, based at the University of Cape Town, climate change is altering our environment in ways that directly affect respiratory health. “We are seeing pollen seasons starting earlier, lasting longer, and becoming more intense,” he adds. In Africa, this effect is magnified. Pollen seasons are already longer than in many regions, making allergies and related asthma often year-round conditions. “Asthma rarely exists in isolation. It is closely linked to allergies such as pollen, dust mites, mould, and food triggers. There is a very important intersection between food allergy and asthma. The biggest risk factor for dying from a food allergy is having poorly controlled asthma,” says Prof Levin. This relationship is backed by immunology, as both conditions share overlapping immune pathways. But despite this, diagnosis across the continent remains severely limited. “There are very few centres across Africa that can properly diagnose and manage food allergies. One in Nairobi, one in Dar es Salaam, two in Lagos, and two in Accra. That’s about it,” Prof Levin says. A 2022 study titled “Mapping Allergic Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa,” published in Frontiers in Allergy, confirms this gap. It finds that many African countries lack allergy testing facilities, trained specialists, and confirmatory diagnostic systems. The study further notes that health systems in Sub-Saharan Africa have historically prioritised infectious diseases such as malaria, tuberculosis, and HIV, leaving allergy care underdeveloped. Without diagnosis, Prof Levin warns, patients continue to be exposed to triggers unknowingly. In Kenya, environmental conditions further intensify the problem. Professor Nicholas Oguge, an environmental scientist at the University of Nairobi, identifies transport emissions, industrial activity, and open waste burning as the main drivers of air pollution in Nairobi. He links these directly to asthma, respiratory infections, and cardiovascular disease. Evidence from air quality studies suggests transport alone contributes roughly 35–40 per cent of PM2.5 pollution in Nairobi, making it the city’s leading source of urban air contamination. These pollutants are well known to inflame airways and trigger asthma attacks. Dr Andrew Owuor, a Kenyan pulmonologist, observes a direct clinical trend. “The more pollution we have, the more the number of patients presenting with asthma and chronic bronchitis,” he says. A 2023 Thorax study comparing 2,373 schoolchildren in Nairobi found stark inequalities between informal and affluent areas. Children in informal settlements were exposed to higher pollution levels and reported more asthma-like symptoms, yet were less likely to be formally diagnosed compared to children in wealthier neighbourhoods. Urban city in Africa with smog showcasing the low quality of breathable air. | Courtesy Beyond outdoor pollution, household exposure is also a major driver. Many households in Kenya rely on biomass fuels such as charcoal and firewood, releasing harmful pollutants including carbon monoxide and fine particles. Globally, household air pollution is linked to over 3.8 million deaths annually. In Kenya, indoor air pollution is especially prevalent in low-income and rural households where ventilation is poor, and exposure is constant. For children like Maina, exposure does not end outdoors but continues at home. Africa’s rapid urbanisation is expected to intensify these risks. The United Nations projects that Africa’s urban population will rise from 43 per cent in 2020 to nearly 60 per cent by 2050. According to Prof Levin, urban environments fundamentally reshape immune development. “Allergies are much more common in urban populations than rural ones, and that’s driven by environmental factors, not genetics.” He explains that in rural areas, exposure to animals and microbes helps regulate immune responses, while urban environments reduce this exposure and increase pollution-related triggers. “There’s a strong evolutionary component. The same immune pathways that fight parasites can drive allergic reactions,” he adds. This may explain why Africa could experience a faster rise in allergic diseases than high-income regions. What makes matters worse is that on the continent, treatment gaps remain. “Access to inhaled corticosteroids (the ‘brown inhaler ‘) is essential. But access is uneven. Inhalers are often unavailable or unaffordable, and diagnostic tools like spirometers are limited,” says Prof Levin. A 2019 multi-country study across Sub-Saharan Africa confirms this, finding that inhaled corticosteroids are available in fewer than half of health facilities in some areas, while spirometers are available in less than one-third. Education is another challenge. “Patients often stop using their medication because they don’t feel immediate effects,” Prof Levin says. And without consistent treatment, asthma can become life-threatening even when medication is prescribed. Evidence from the WHO shows that asthma can become life-threatening in severe cases and may lead to death if not properly controlled. Clinical research further indicates that poor adherence to prescribed treatment is a major contributor to severe asthma attacks and preventable fatalities, even among patients who have been diagnosed and given medication. Looking ahead, experts warn the next decade will be critical. “In the next 10 to 15 years, we are likely to see a significant rise in asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis across Africa,” Prof Levin says. Addressing this crisis will require coordinated action across multiple fronts, moving beyond isolated interventions toward an integrated response. “This includes reducing transport and industrial emissions through stronger regulation and cleaner technologies, alongside efforts to curb household air pollution,” Prof Levin explains. At the same time, there is growing emphasis on expanding access to clean cooking fuels, especially in low-income urban settlements where reliance on biomass fuels continues to expose families to harmful indoor air pollution. Health specialists also stress the need to invest in allergy diagnosis and treatment in systems where respiratory conditions remain wContinue Reading

]]> ada45080e070fc0febcb4682fc212b64 https://big3africa.org/?p=6297 Fri, 29 May 2026 06:21:56 +0300 New WMO Report Predicts Hotter Years and Growing Climate Risks for Africa The world is likely to experience more record-breaking temperatures in the comingContinue Reading

]]> 33a7e67be2d849f91d60c4f69f9a898b https://big3africa.org/?p=6178 Thu, 28 May 2026 07:54:56 +0300 Climate Change's Silent Toll on African Minds ClimContinue Reading

]]> 989dcf9c82f1b5168cfdda0fecf5b755 https://big3africa.org/?p=6204 Thu, 28 May 2026 07:49:35 +0300 Opposition Grows Over Proposed Nuclear Power Plant Near Lake Victoria By Cece Siago Opposition is mounting against Kenya’s proposed nuclear power plant, which authorities are considering siting near the Lake Victoria basin, with environmental groups, residents, and policy think tanks warning of severe ecological, economic, and safety risks. The project, spearheaded by the Nuclear Power and Energy Agency (NuPEA), is part of Kenya’s long-term plan to diversify Kenya’s energy mix by producing 2,000 megawatts of energy and cost roughly KES 500 billion to build. However, the possible relocation of the plant from earlier coastal sites to Siaya County near Lake Victoria has triggered renewed resistance. The project was initially earmarked for Kilifi County, on Kenya’s coast, but after residents rejected the plan, the government shifted to the new site in Siaya County. A coalition of civil society organisations, led by Power Shift Africa (PSA), has strongly criticised the proposal, arguing that it places one of Africa’s most important freshwater ecosystems at risk. “Lake Victoria is not a cooling tank,” Power Shift Africa said in a statement, warning that nuclear reactors require vast quantities of water for cooling and could return heated water back into the lake, disrupting aquatic ecosystems that support millions of livelihoods across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. It further warned that the project could deepen environmental vulnerability in a region already facing climate stress, overfishing, and pollution pressures. Shows of Lake Victoria | Courtesy Thomas Stellmach/Flickr, Local communities in Bondo, Siaya and surrounding areas have also voiced concern, saying they were not adequately consulted. Residents participating in recent public forums and protests have argued that the plant could threaten fishing activities, agriculture, and access to clean water. Environmental advocates say the siting process reflects deeper governance concerns. PSA and other organisations argue that the nuclear plant decisions are being driven more by political considerations than technical or environmental suitability, raising questions about transparency in Kenya’s energy planning. Experts opposing the project have also pointed to Kenya’s current energy profile, noting that the country already generates a significant share of its electricity from renewable sources such as geothermal, wind, and hydro. They argue that investment should instead prioritise expanding these systems and improving grid reliability. According to PSA Director, Mohamed Adow a nuclear facility can take more than a decade to become operational. “For comparison, the 55MW solar plant in Garissa took only one year to finalize. If we really need to get this electricity to people at record speeds, then we have to look no further than renewables.” NuPEA has defended the plant saying the project is still in the planning phase and that environmental and safety assessments will guide final site selection. “We hear and respect the voices of the residents of Siaya. Public participation is not a mere procedural formality. It is a constitutional right and the project wouldn’t proceed without the broad informed consent of the community,” the agency said in a statement. The statement came two days after protests from residents living near the proposed nuclear power project who voiced concerns about potential nuclear contamination and ecological risks to Africa’s largest fresh-water lake. Critics insist that no level of mitigation can eliminate the risks associated with siting a nuclear facility on a fragile freshwater system like Lake Victoria. Adow warned nuclear contamination in Lake Victoria would be devastating. He pointed to a 2024 report by The Council on Strategic Risks, which, he said, found that “biodiversity collapse in the Lake Victoria Basin could trigger conflict, economic instability, migration and iContinue Reading

]]> 6667a6628976e6d2b97cd19fb496ec6e https://big3africa.org/?p=6194 Thu, 28 May 2026 07:31:04 +0300 Argentina Seizes Over 700 Trafficked Marine Animals From Kenya By Waweru Wairimu More than 700 live marine animals trafficked from Kenya have been seized in Argentina in what conservation groups and authorities describe as a major international wildlife trafficking operation targeting the global exotic aquarium trade, according to news agencies. The animals were intercepted at Ezeiza International Airport near Buenos Aires during a joint operation involving Argentina’s Environmental Control Brigade, customs officials, agricultural health authorities, wildlife rescue organisation Fundación Temaikèn and the International Fund for Animal Welfare (IFAW). According to the reports, the shipment originated from Kenya and contained 709 live marine animals representing 102 species commonly traded for ornamental aquariums and exotic collections. The animals included surgeonfish, butterflyfish, lionfish, puffer fish, octopuses, crabs and starfish. AP and The Washington Post reported that many of the animals arrived dead after spending nearly 120 hours in transit, while surviving specimens were found severely weakened and stressed. Cristian Gillet, wildlife director at Fundación Temaikèn, said the rescued animals were in critical condition upon arrival: “Many of these animals were extracted from reef ecosystems and arrived at the limit of survival,” Gillet told the AP. A lion fish | Courtesy Pexel The Washington Post reported that veterinarians and marine specialists worked for more than 28 hours to stabilize the surviving animals, setting up emergency tanks equipped with filtration, heating and water-conditioning systems suitable for tropical marine species. Wildlife trafficking experts warned that the growing global demand for exotic aquarium species is fuelling organised criminal networks and threatening fragile reef ecosystems. Christian Plowman of IFAW described the operation as highly coordinated. “This is an industrialized crime. It requires coordination along every link of the chain,” Plowman told AP. Plowman said the seizure was the third wildlife trafficking interception at the same Argentine entry point within a year, suggesting the existence of an established trafficking corridor. The incident adds to growing international concern over wildlife trafficking involving live animals. A 2024 report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime warned that illegal wildlife trade continues to expand globally, threatening biodiversity and fuelling organised crime networks. Conservation groups say marine species trafficked for ornamental trade often suffer high mortality rates during capture and transport, while wild populations face mounting pressure from overexploitatContinue Reading

]]> 585ab9679182b5979c897b1f0d84d098 https://big3africa.org/?p=6188 Thu, 28 May 2026 07:09:41 +0300 Rare Albino Antelope Spotted in Sibiloi National Park A rare albino antelope has been spotted in northern Kenya’s Sibiloi National Park, drawing excitement among conservationists and wildlife enthusiasts. The unusual animal, identified as an albino Tiang, a subspecies of the Northern Topi antelope, was seen by Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) rangers during a routine patrol near Alia Bay along the shores of Lake Turkana. KWS described the sighting as “truly rare” and said the animal was spotted moving among a herd of normally coloured topis across the park’s grasslands. Photos released by KWS showed the antelope’s striking pale-white coat sharply contrasting with the reddish-brown colouring typical of the species. Wildlife officials said the rare appearance is caused by albinism, a genetic condition resulting from the absence of melanin pigment. “Moments like these remind us of the beauty and surprises nature continues to reveal, and of the importance of protecting these wild spaces for generations to come,” KWS said in a statement. Conservation experts note that albino animals often face major survival challenges in the wild because their bright colouring makes them more visible to predators and may also affect eyesight. According to KWS, The Tiang, also known as the Northern Topi, is among the wildlife species found in the semi-arid ecosystem of Sibiloi National Park, which lies on the northeastern shores of Lake Turkana and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage landscape. The sighting adds to a growing list of rare wildlife encounters recorded in Kenya in recent years, including sightings of black panthers in Laikipia and unusually dark-maned lions in the MaasaiContinue Reading

]]> 2dd0501d9c6e3e9a89acc600210f15cd https://big3africa.org/?p=6167 Wed, 27 May 2026 09:56:36 +0300 Kenya's Agri-Insurance Boom Climate Resilience ErrContinue Reading

]]> f39feb8d783f7474fb7c091d869679c2 https://big3africa.org/?p=6154 Tue, 26 May 2026 09:55:53 +0300 Maize Aggregation Defends Against Climate-Driven Hunger and Aflatoxin In the semi-arid plains of Ng’arua in Laikipia County, maize farmers are not only battling low prices and unreliable markets. They are confronting a growing climate and public health crisis fuelled by rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, prolonged droughts, and the silent spread of aflatoxin contamination in food systems. For many households, maize is the foundation of daily survival. Yet climate change is increasingly threatening both the quantity and safety of this staple food. During harvest seasons, farmers often record temporary surpluses, only to face food shortages months later as droughts, failed rains, and post-harvest losses wipe out reserves. At the same time, poor drying conditions and rising humidity fluctuations are accelerating the growth of toxic fungi that produce aflatoxins, which are dangerous poisons linked to liver cancer, weakened immunity, stunted growth in children, and even death. In response, farmers in Nga’rua are turning to maize aggregation as a climate adaptation strategy that protects food security, safeguards public health, and reduces post-harvest losses. Through the Ng’arua Cereals and Produce Cooperative Society, 134 farmers – 58 women and 76 men – collectively dry, clean, and store maize under controlled conditions before selling it when prices improve. “The store was created as a buffer where harvested maize could be stored for three to four months to take advantage of better prices,” says cooperative chairperson Nahashon Kanyiri. Nahashon Kagiri, Chairperson of the Ngarua Cereals and Produce Cooperative Society, speaks during an interview in Laikipia. | Courtesy PAULINE ONGAJI But what began as an economic solution has evolved into a critical defence against climate-related hunger and food contamination. Climate change and the rise of aflatoxin According to Prof. Paul Kiprotich Kimurto, Professor of Crop Science and Director of the Agroscience Park at Egerton University, climate change is creating ideal conditions for aflatoxin-producing fungi such as Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus parasiticus. “These fungi thrive under conditions of heat stress, drought, and poor storage,” explains Prof. Kimurto. “When maize plants are weakened by drought and then exposed to moisture during storage, the risk of fungal infection and aflatoxin contamination rises sharply.” He says warming temperatures and increasingly erratic rainfall patterns across Kenya are worsening the problem, especially in maize-growing regions already vulnerable to food insecurity. Aflatoxins are invisible, tasteless, and difficult to detect without proper testing, making them one of the most dangerous hidden threats in food systems. Once contaminated maize enters households or markets, the toxins can accumulate in the human body over time. Scientific studies have linked chronic aflatoxin exposure to liver cancer, immune suppression, malnutrition, and impaired child development. In severe cases, high exposure can trigger acute aflatoxicosis, which causes rapid liver failure and death. Kenya has experienced several deadly aflatoxin outbreaks over the years, particularly in eastern regions where poor drying and storage conditions have combined with extreme weather stress. Prof. Kimurto warns that climate change is likely to increase the frequency and spread of contamination unless communities strengthen post-harvest management systems. “Food security is not only about having enough food,” he says. “It is also about ensuring that the food people consume is safe.” Aggregation as a climate adaptation solution The cooperative’s aggregation model is helping farmers tackle these interconnected threats through science-based storage and food safety practices. Instead of drying maize on bare ground under unpredictable weather conditions, farmers now use modern drying machines that quickly reduce moisture content to safe levels. “The drying machine helps us achieve the recommended moisture content of 13.5 percent,” says Kanyiri. “This reduces fungal growth and aflatoxin contamination while preserving grain quality.” Nahashon Kagiri, Chairperson of the Ngarua Cereals and Produce Cooperative Society, speaks during an interview in Laikipia. | Courtesy PAULINE ONGAJI The cooperative also uses sieving machines to remove damaged, mouldy, and discoloured kernels, which often contain the highest concentration of toxins. “Aggregation centres make it possible to conduct rapid quality control measures that individual farmers cannot easily afford,” says Prof. Kimurto. “Through cleaning, sorting, rapid drying, and proper storage, contamination risks can be significantly reduced.” The cooperative is also embracing hermetic storage technologies such as PICS bags, which create airtight conditions that suppress oxygen, preventing fungal growth and insect infestation without excessive use of chemicals. “These technologies reduce post-harvest losses while protecting both human health and the environment,” Prof. Kimurto explains. Hunger, climate shocks, and food resilience For communities facing repeated drought cycles, the cooperative has also become a food security buffer against climate shocks. Before maize is released to the market, vulnerable households and cooperative members can access grain from the store to feed their families during difficult periods. “By the fifth month after harvest, many families used to run out of maize and were forced to buy expensive food,” recalls Kanyiri. “Now the store helps cushion households during dry periods and unstable seasons.” Members who borrow maize later return it with a small surplus, strengthening the collective reserve and ensuring food remains available within the community. This system has become increasingly important as climate change destabilises agricultural production and drives up food prices across the country. Experts warn that Africa could face worsening food insecurity as rising temperatures reduce crop yields, increase pest outbreaks, and intensify droughts and floods. Reducing post-harvest losses has therefore become as important as increasing production itself. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), nearly one-third of food produced globally is lost or wasted, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions while millions remain food insecure. By preserving harvested maize safely, aggregation reduces waste, stabilises local food supplies, and lowers pressure to clear forests or fragile ecosystems for additional farming land. “When farmers lose less food after harvest, they become more resilient economically and environmentally,” says Prof. Kimurto. “It reduces pressure on land and strengthens community adaptation to climate change.” Diversification for climate resilience Beyond maize storage, the cooperative is encouraging farmers to diversify livelihoods to reduce dependence on a single climate-sensitive crop. Members are now engaging in fruit tree nurseries, kitchen gardens, tea seedlings, and beekeeping projects that support biodiversity restoration and alternative income generation. A planned tree nursery supported through grants from FAO and E4Impact is expected to further strengthen ecosystem restoration efforts in the area. The cooperative also operates a small solar-powered maize mill, signalling a gradual shift toward cleaner and more sustainable rural food systems. For farmers in Nga’arua, aggregation is becoming a community-led climate resilience model that connects science, health, environmental conservation, and food security in the fighContinue Reading

]]> 358be7ca1d05ba2b7542951b79a5fbee https://big3africa.org/?p=6144 Mon, 25 May 2026 09:46:33 +0300 Chameleons, Tortoises Dominate Kenya’s Expanding Exotic Animal Exports Chameleons and tortoises are among the most exported live animals from Kenya, according to a new study that has raised alarm over the country’s rapidly expanding role in the global exotic wildlife trade. The study found that 77 percent of the species exported from Kenya between 2013 and 2023 had populations in the wild that were either declining or poorly documented, raising fresh concerns about the long-term conservation impact of the trade. Among the species identified in the exports were the critically endangered pancake tortoise, endangered grey parrots and sun parakeets, as well as vulnerable species such as the African lion and Hermann’s tortoise. According to the report, more than 870,000 live animals were exported internationally from Kenya during the ten-year period, with reptiles accounting for the overwhelming majority of the trade. The study, titled Rising Reptile Trade from Kenya: Analysis of CITES-Listed Captive-Bred Wildlife Exports, found that reptiles accounted for 81 percent of all exports recorded, followed by birds at 15 percent and mammals at 4 percent. A chameleon captured in its habitat | Courtesy The report shows that live reptile exports increased tenfold over the decade, rising from 8,551 individuals in 2013 to 86,330 in 2023, reflecting what researchers described as a rapidly growing commercial trade in captive-bred and ranched wildlife. The researchers said the surge in reptile exports reflects Kenya’s growing position as a supplier to the global exotic pet and luxury wildlife market, with most exports destined for the United States, Germany, Spain, Taiwan and South Korea. More than 93 percent of the exports were classified as commercial trade. The report raises concerns over the sustainability and regulation of the trade, warning that captive-breeding systems can sometimes be used to disguise illegally sourced wildlife collected from natural ecosystems. Researchers also pointed to “substantial discrepancies” between exporter-reported and importer-reported quantities in CITES records, which they said could signal weaknesses in monitoring, enforcement and traceability systems. “Kenya’s expanding wildlife exports raise concerns about traceability and the potential for negative conservation outcomes,” the researchers noted in the report. The findings come amid increasing global scrutiny of the exotic pet industry and growing fears among conservationists that wildlife laundering through captive-breeding permits could place further pressure on already vulnerable species. The study further warns that the international movement of live reptiles and other exotic animals poses biosecurity and animal welfare risks, including the spread of diseases and ecological disruption if trade is poorly regulated. Researchers are now calling for tighter oversight of breeding facilities, improved traceability mechanisms and stronger international cooperation to ensure Kenya’s wildlife trade does not undermine biodiveContinue Reading

]]> 842cafe5aff5b8d6420044aa84f65767 https://big3africa.org/?p=6128 Mon, 25 May 2026 06:00:00 +0300 Maasai Women Drive Climate Resilience Through Beekeeping in Laikipia The mid-morning sun over Mumonyot Location in Doldol, Laikipia County burns fiercely, casting heat across a fragile landscape where cracked earth stretches beneath scattered acacia trees. Dry riverbeds snake through the dusty plains, silent reminders of seasons that no longer arrive as they once did. For generations, the pastoralist communities here relied on predictable rains, healthy grazing fields, and livestock to sustain their lives. But climate change has altered that rhythm as prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall, shrinking pasturelands, and rising temperatures steadily threaten livelihoods across semi-arid regions. Yet amid this climate uncertainty, a quiet transformation is unfolding. Suspended beneath acacia branches are rows of wooden beehives, carefully managed by the Namilok Women’s Group, a collective of 200 Maasai women and seven men who are using beekeeping not only to earn a living, but also to restore ecosystems, reduce environmental degradation, and adapt to a changing climate. On a five-acre piece of land, the group now manages 54 beehives, harvesting between seven and ten kilograms of honey per hive each season. The women harvest three times a year, producing approximately 370 kilograms annually depending on flowering cycles increasingly influenced by changing weather patterns. Through this initiative, what was once viewed as barren land has become a climate resilience hub. “Before this project, many families depended heavily on livestock alone, but droughts became too frequent and severe,” explains Everline Naleku, chairlady of the group. “Beekeeping has given us another source of survival that does not destroy the environment.” The women say the effects of climate change became impossible to ignore in recent years. Rivers dried earlier, pasture disappeared faster, and families were often forced to migrate long distances in search of water and grazing land. Rosemary Mosian, secretary of the Namilok Women’s Group, displays sample packaging bottles used for their honey in Mumonyot Location, Doldol, Laikipia County. | Courtesy PAULINE ONGAJI As livelihoods became more fragile, some households turned to charcoal burning to survive, accelerating deforestation in an already vulnerable ecosystem. But in March 2023, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), through its Forest and Farm Facility programme, partnered with the women’s group to support climate-smart livelihoods through sustainable beekeeping. The intervention included grants and extensive training in hive management, honey processing, environmental conservation, pollination systems, flowering seasons, branding, and value addition through products such as beeswax, propolis, and royal jelly. The women also participated in exchange visits to other counties where they observed communities restoring degraded land while building profitable honey enterprises. “We realised beekeeping is deeply connected to conservation,” says Rosemary Mosian, the group’s secretary. “Without trees, there are no flowers. Without flowers, there are no bees and no honey.” That understanding has transformed how the community relates to the environment. Today, members of the group actively plant trees and protect indigenous vegetation around their apiaries. Charcoal burning, once common among some households, is steadily declining as honey production proves more profitable and sustainable. “Charcoal burning no longer attracts us,” Mosian explains. “Now we know trees are more valuable standing alive because they support bees, rainfall, shade, and even our livestock.” John Saikong, Senior Chief of Mumonyot Location, Laikipia County, addressing some members of the Namilok Women’s Group in Mumonyot Location, Doldol, Laikipia County. | Courtesy PAULINE ONGAJI According to Philip Kisoyan, a landscape ecology specialist and Project Lead in Natural Resource Management at FAO, bees play a critical role in ecosystem restoration and climate adaptation. “Beekeeping protects entire ecosystems because bees are essential pollinators,” he says. “They support biodiversity, forest regeneration, and food production. In dryland areas facing climate stress, beekeeping offers communities income while encouraging conservation instead of environmental destruction.” Climate experts increasingly identify sustainable apiculture as an important adaptation strategy for arid and semi-arid regions because it requires relatively little water compared to livestock or crop farming while still generating reliable income. The economic impact on the women has been significant. Initially, the group sold raw honey at Sh300 per kilogram. Today, after improving hygiene, packaging, and branding, their processed honey sells for up to Sh1,000 per kilogram. Some of their products are marketed online through the Kenya National Farmers Federation platform, while wholesale buyers purchase bulk honey at approximately Sh800 per kilogram. The income has allowed the women to diversify into goat farming, manage table banking schemes, and invest in water tanks to cope with worsening water scarcity caused by prolonged droughts. Their savings now total more than Sh600,000. “Climate change made life harder, but this project helped us become stronger,” says Naleku. “Now women can pay school fees, buy food, and even save money during drought periods.” The project is also changing diets and improving nutrition in a region where climate shocks have historically limited access to fruits and vegetables. Traditionally, many Maasai households depended heavily on milk, meat, and ugali. But with drought affecting livestock productivity, food insecurity became more severe. John Saikong, Senior Chief of Mumonyot Location, Laikipia County, during an interview in Mumonyot Location, Doldol, Laikipia County. | Courtesy PAULINE ONGAJI Using income from honey sales, the women have established kitchen gardens and a shared community garden where families grow vegetables and fruits. “Now our children can eat vegetables regularly,” says Elizabeth Milau, a member of the group. “We learned that climate change also affects nutrition, so we started growing food ourselves.” Beyond economics and nutrition, local leaders say the project is strengthening community stability in an era of climate displacement because with improved livelihoods, fewer families are migrating constantly in search of pasture. This means that children remain in school longer, and households experience greater stability despite recurring droughts. “This project has reduced movement caused by climate stress,” says John Saikong, the senior chief of Mumonyot Location. “Families are becoming more settled because women now have reliable incomes that support the household even during dry seasons.” But perhaps the most remarkable transformation is social. In a community where land ownership and economic decision-making traditionally belonged to men, the women’s success in environmental conservation and climate resilience is slowly reshaping gender norms. When the Namilok Women’s Group first requested land in 2023 to establish their beekeeping project, the decision to allocate it shocked many residents. In Maasai culture, women rarely receive communal land rights. Yet today, the same women are being celebrated as environmental stewards and economic leaders. “These women have shown that protecting the environment can also strengthen families and communities,” says Peter Moiyare, chairman of the Morupusi Community Land Group. “People now respect them because they have brought development through conservation.” Now, the group dreams of expanding even further. Within the next two years, the women hope to secure Kenya Bureau of Standards (KEBS) certification to access international markets with their branded honey, beeswax candles, lip balm, propolis, and royal jelly products. For the women of Mumonyot, the future of climate adaptation is about restoring ecosystems, protecting forests, empowering women, and building livelihoods rooted not in environmental destruction, but in coContinue Reading

]]> 0527230680c6d9a9bc710e9f8202dff8 https://big3africa.org/?p=6116 Sat, 23 May 2026 11:21:43 +0300 Ruto Sends Contradictory Signals on Electric Vehicle Policy Kenya’s electric mobility drive has entered a policy contradiction, with President William Ruto directing duty-free importation for the first 100,000 electric vehicles even as his government proposes to impose a 16 percent VAT on EVs and related technologies in the Finance Bill 2026. The President announced on May 22 that the first batch of electric vehicles entering the country will be exempt from import duties as part of efforts to accelerate clean transport and attract manufacturers into the local market. However, industry stakeholders and environmental analysts say the Finance Bill proposal risks reversing those gains by increasing the cost of electric mobility technologies at the exact moment the sector is beginning to scale. According to the proposals, the standard VAT would be applied to electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries, electric motorcycles, electric buses and charging infrastructure, effectively raising costs across the value chain. President William Ruto speaks at State House, Mombasa, May 22, 2026. | Courtesy PCS Energy and transport sector players say the conflicting signals from government policy are already creating uncertainty in a market that has only recently begun to attract serious investment. Kenya’s electric mobility sector has expanded rapidly in the past three years, with startups such as BasiGo, Roam and Ampersand rolling out electric buses, motorcycles and battery-swapping systems in Nairobi and other urban centres. Industry data shows registered electric vehicles have grown from fewer than 1,000 units in 2022 to more than 24,000 by the end of 2025, driven largely by tax incentives and early-stage investor confidence. But that trajectory is now under threat. If the Finance Bill is passed in its current form, importers and assemblers will no longer benefit from input VAT recovery on key EV components, a shift that analysts say will raise final consumer prices significantly due to Kenya’s heavy reliance on imported technology. Kenya imports nearly all EV components, including batteries and charging systems, making the sector highly sensitive to taxation changes. The proposals have triggered concern among climate advocates who argue that the country is moving in opposite directions by promoting EV adoption on one hand while increasing the cost of adoption on the other. President William Ruto chauffeurs himself to the opening of Africa’s first Climate Summit in 2023| Courtesy The Finance Bill proposals also revive earlier tensions seen in the Finance Bill 2024, where similar attempts to tax electric bicycles, batteries and solar products were revised after public backlash. Critics now say the repeated reintroduction of such measures signals an unresolved policy tension between revenue mobilisation and climate transition goals. Ethical Business Africa has described the current proposal as “strategic incoherence,” arguing that the state is simultaneously trying to cushion citizens from fuel price shocks while taxing technologies that would reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The debate is now shifting to Parliament, where lawmakers are expected to review the Finance Bill proposals amid growing pressure from investors, environmental groups and transport sector stakeholders. If adopted unchanged, analysts say the measures could slow Kenya’s transition to electric mobility, weaken investor confidence in green industries, and delay the country’s ambition to become a regional hub for clean transport and mContinue Reading

]]> 8d9fbe30b5ac5101603b01bb1d81ef1c https://big3africa.org/?p=6105 Sat, 23 May 2026 06:00:00 +0300 Africa Green Shift Biodiversity and Economic Resilience Intertwined Africa is witnessing a profound structural shift in how biodiversity conservation and renewable infrastructure projects are funded. Market analysts observe a strategic pivot, moving away from traditional models of environmental compliance. Instead, the focus is now firmly on economic resilience, ensuring projects generate tangible financial returns while safeguarding natural ecosystems. This new approach aims to protect vital habitats against the volatility of international climate funds. Investment in African renewables notably defied global cooling trends last year, experiencing a significant surge. Kenya, in particular, led this charge with an impressive fourteen-fold increase in renewable investment value. This remarkable growth highlights a proactive strategy to integrate clean energy with national development goals, often in harmony with biodiversity protection. It positions Kenya as a frontrunner in Africa’s green economic transformation. Policymakers and conservation entities are no longer treating clean energy and habitat preservation as solely environmental mandates. They are now viewed as critical components of economic growth and stability, recognizing the intrinsic value of healthy ecosystems. Coral reefs are vital for marine biodiversity, but face significant risks from climate change and human activity | Courtesy Projects are increasingly designed around core economic drivers such as energy security and the burgeoning power demand from data centers, while also considering their ecological footprint. This ensures their long-term viability and attractiveness to investors, alongside their environmental benefits. Furthermore, there is a strong emphasis on localized green manufacturing within these initiatives, often utilizing sustainable practices that minimize impact on local flora and fauna. This fosters domestic industrial growth and creates sustainable employment opportunities across the continent. This strategic reorientation ensures that green projects can remain financially self-sustaining, even when global climate funding fluctuates. It builds a robust foundation for enduring environmental and economic benefits, with biodiversity at its core. The shift represents a maturation of Africa’s approach to climate action and sustainable development. It recognizes the intrinsic link between ecological health, particularly biodiversity, and economic prosperity. By embedding financial resilience into conservation and renewable energy, African nations are creating a powerful model. This model can inspire other developing regions seeking sustainable growth that respects natural capital. This proactive stance not only secures vital funding but also empowers local communities through job creation and energy access, often through initiatives that directly support biodiversity. It fosters a sense of ownership and long-term commitment to these initiatives. The continent is demonstrating that environmental stewardship, especially biodiversity conservation, and economic advancement are not mutually exclusive. They are, in fact, deeply interconnected and mutually reinforcing for a trulyContinue Reading

]]> 986f1120a9cf217d5d06c472dc414ce1 https://big3africa.org/?p=6096 Fri, 22 May 2026 08:41:30 +0300 Makueni Leads Local Climate Action MakueniContinue Reading

]]> c9b1aee9450a4b03b24f4ade901f6c21 https://big3africa.org/?p=6088 Fri, 22 May 2026 08:15:08 +0300 UN Backs Historic Climate Accountability In aContinue Reading

]]> c503f6288e06deb35c8fdcb1338fbadb https://big3africa.org/?p=6076 Thu, 21 May 2026 11:18:11 +0300 Kenya’s Finance Bill 2026 Risks Derailing Green Transition, Industry Players Warn Kenya’s ambitious push toward green energy and electric mobility could suffer a major setback if proposals contained in the Finance Bill 2026 are adopted. Industry players and environmental analysts are warning that the proposed tax measures may reverse gains made in the country’s fast-growing electric vehicle sector. The proposed law seeks to introduce a 16 percent Value Added Tax (VAT) on electric vehicles, lithium-ion batteries and electric bicycles, effectively removing incentives that had helped position Kenya as one of Africa’s leading electric mobility markets. The move has triggered concern among climate advocates, renewable energy investors and e-mobility startups who argue that the tax proposals contradict Kenya’s public commitments on climate action and clean energy transition. According to the proposals, the standard VAT would now apply to imported electric buses, motorcycles, battery packs and charging infrastructure, increasing operational costs for firms that depend heavily on imported technology. Charging points for EV at Stima Plaza, Nairobi, Kenya | Courtesy The proposed tax comes at a time when Kenya has been marketing itself globally as a climate leader and a regional hub for green innovation. The country already generates more than 90 percent of its electricity from renewable sources such as geothermal, hydro, wind and solar energy, giving it one of the cleanest electricity grids in Africa. Industry analysts say the Finance Bill risks undermining that advantage. According to Ethical Business Africa, the proposal is a “strategic incoherence dressed in fiscal clothing,” arguing that the government was simultaneously trying to cushion Kenyans from rising fuel costs while taxing technologies designed to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. The concerns emerge against the backdrop of soaring global oil prices and rising fuel costs in Kenya. Diesel prices in Nairobi recently crossed record levels amid geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, increasing transport and production costs across the economy. Critics argue that instead of accelerating electric mobility to reduce exposure to global oil shocks, the government is making clean transport more expensive. The tax proposals could particularly affect electric mobility startups that have expanded rapidly across East Africa in recent years, which have invested heavily in electric buses, motorcycles, battery-swapping infrastructure and charging networks. Kenya’s EV market has grown significantly in recent years. Reports indicate that registered electric vehicles rose from fewer than 1,000 units in 2022 to more than 24,000 by the end of 2025, driven by tax incentives, startup expansion and increasing investment in battery-swapping infrastructure. However, sector players fear the 2026 Finance Bill could slow investor confidence and discourage adoption at a critical growth stage. Because most EV components are still imported, analysts say the proposed VAT will immediately translate into higher retail prices for electric buses, motorcycles and batteries. That could make electric transport less competitive compared to conventional fossil fuel-powered vehicles despite rising fuel prices. NETA V electric cars for the Nairobi taxi market. | Courtesy The proposals have also revived debate about the consistency of Kenya’s climate policies. While the government has unveiled a National Electric Mobility Policy and repeatedly pledged commitment to decarbonisation and green growth, critics argue that taxation policy is moving in the opposite direction. The Finance Bill also comes barely two years after widespread public backlash against the Finance Bill 2024, which had similarly proposed VAT on electric bicycles, electric buses, solar products and lithium-ion batteries before some clauses were amended following nationwide protests. Environmental groups say the recurring attempts to tax green technologies suggest a broader policy contradiction within government. Analysts warn that weakening incentives for renewable technologies could slow Kenya’s progress toward reducing emissions from the transport sector, one of the country’s fastest-growing sources of carbon pollution. Beyond electric vehicles, critics say the broader tax direction may also hurt digital and green innovation ecosystems. Proposed increases in taxes on electronic devices and digital services could affect access to smart technologies increasingly used in climate adaptation, energy management and environmental monitoring. There are also fears that heavy dependence on petroleum taxes for government revenue is creating a structural conflict between fiscal policy and climate goals. Kenya continues to collect significant revenue through fuel levies and petroleum taxes, even as it promotes green transition rhetoric internationally. Observers say this creates an economic incentive to maintain fossil fuel consumption rather than to aggressively accelerate alternatives, such as electric public transport and renewable-powered mobility systems. Climate and energy experts argue that countries serious about green transition are increasingly introducing subsidies, tax breaks and investment incentives for EVs and renewable technologies rather than expanding taxation on them. Several countries globally continue offering VAT exemptions and incentives for electric vehicles to encourage adoption and reduce emissions. In contrast, Kenya’s new proposals risk making the country less attractive to green investors at a time when African e-mobility is beginning to attract substantial international funding. Analysts now warn that, unless Parliament revises the proposals, the Finance Bill 2026 could slow Kenya’s transition to clean transport, weaken investor confidence in green industries, and expose the economy to prolonged dependence onContinue Reading

]]> 097dfaa9b42c9321e504268a8f947bee https://big3africa.org/?p=6065 Thu, 21 May 2026 10:03:57 +0300 New report urges governments to prioritise clean air in fight against NCDs Governments across the world have been urged to take urgent action on air pollution to help deal with a silent epidemic of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) responsible for millions of deaths worldwide. A report titled, A Breathable Planet: Best Practices for Clean Air Policies to Meet NCD Targets, released by the NCD Alliance with support from Haleon, says air pollution causes nearly eight million deaths annually, with 86 percent linked to NCDs such as heart disease, stroke, chronic respiratory illnesses, dementia, diabetes and cancer. The warning comes as Kenya continues grappling with rising cases of asthma, hypertension, stroke and other chronic illnesses, especially in urban areas heavily affected by traffic emissions, industrial pollution and the use of dirty cooking fuels. According to the World Health Organiastion (WHO), noncommunicable diseases account for about 39 percent of all deaths in Kenya, with air pollution increasingly recognised as a major contributor. The new report argues that despite the scale of the crisis, air pollution still receives far less policy attention than other health risks. “Clean air policies bring shared benefits for health, equity, the economy and the environment. Acting on air pollution is not only essential for reducing the NCD burden, but also for achieving sustainable development,” said Liz Arnanz, NCD Alliance Policy and Advocacy Manager. The report highlights practical and cost-effective interventions already working in several countries and cities, including restricting vehicle emissions, expanding access to clean public transport, phasing out fossil fuels and investing in cleaner household energy. Burning of tyres to retrieve the wires in it in Ghana, in the process extreme pollution of the air. | Courtesy For Kenya, where many households still rely on charcoal, kerosene and firewood for cooking, public health advocates say cleaner energy transitions could significantly reduce respiratory diseases among women and children. The report also comes months after countries committed through the 2025 UN Political Declaration on NCDs and Mental Health to strengthen action on air pollution as part of broader efforts to tackle chronic diseases. However, health experts warn that political promises must now translate into concrete policies and financing. “What this report makes clear is that the challenge is making political and financing decisions consistent with public health goals,” said Jose Luis Castro, WHO Special Envoy. “Governments now face fundamental choices on whether to continue subsidizing systems that drive chronic respiratory disease, whether prevention will truly become a cross-government priority, and whether air pollution will finally be integrated into NCD and development strategies rather than treated as a separate environmental issue,” he added. Castro noted that communities do not experience air pollution, climate change and chronic diseases as separate crises, even though governments often address them independently. In Kenya, environmental activists and health organisations have repeatedly raised concerns over rising vehicle emissions, unregulated industrial pollution and weak enforcement of air quality regulations. The report warns that low- and middle-income countries bear the heaviest burden of air pollution-related diseases, deepening existing health and economic inequalities. It further notes that clean air policies offer economic gains by lowering healthcare costs, improving productivity and supporting climate goals. With the UN High-Level Meeting on Universal Health Coverage scheduled for 2027 and ongoing global climate negotiations, the report urges governments not to lose momentum in implemeContinue Reading

]]> ced3619f0de6031353fabdee103aa1af https://big3africa.org/?p=6053 Thu, 21 May 2026 09:48:27 +0300 Green Hydrogen Power Fuels Africa Industrial Growth Nairobi recently hosted the 4th Green Hydrogen Symposium, a pivotal event co-hosted by the governments of Kenya and Germany. This gathering underscored Africa’s strategic shift towards green hydrogen. It is now seen not just as an energy transition tool, but as a foundational platform for green industrialization. This initiative aims to foster regional integration and boost export growth across the continent. Kenya possesses a significant competitive advantage in this emerging sector. Over 90 percent of its national grid is already powered by renewable sources. Geothermal, wind, hydro, and solar energy provide a robust foundation. This allows the country to produce low-cost green hydrogen at scale, positioning it as a leader in sustainable energy. The symposium showcased an impressive new project pipeline. This includes an upcoming green hydrogen project slated for Nyeri. Furthermore, a newly integrated green hydrogen curriculum will be introduced in TVET institutions. This will train a specialized local workforce, ensuring sustained growth and expertise in the sector. Energy CS Opiyo Wandayi addressing the 4th Green Hydrogen Symposium in Nairobi. He reaffirmed Kenya’s position as a regional leader in green energy and sustainable industrial transformation. | Courtesy Nairobi also recently welcomed the major Africa Forward Summit. This event saw European and African business leaders commit substantial investments. Roughly €27 billion ($31.5 billion) was pledged across 30 clean energy and infrastructure projects. These commitments signal a strong belief in Africa’s green future. East Africa is set to benefit significantly from these new deals. Infrastructure investor Meridiam announced a $200 million investment. This will double the capacity of Kenya’s Kipeto Wind Project. This expansion highlights the growing confidence in Kenya’s renewable energy potential. It also demonstrates a commitment to scaling up clean power generation. TotalEnergies also pledged $400 million towards vital clean cooking initiatives. These efforts will stretch across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, addressing critical energy needs. This investment will help millions transition from traditional biomass fuels. It will improve health outcomes and reduce deforestation across the region. At a community level, initiatives are already making a tangible difference. The KPC Foundation and Vivo Energy Kenya launched a localized clean cooking program in Mombasa County. They distributed LPG kits to vulnerable households in Jomvu Kuu. This directly combats indoor air pollution and reduces deforestation caused by charcoal and firewood use. Such grassroots efforts are crucial for equitable energy access. Nairobi is also preparing to host the global Second Summit on Clean Cooking in Africa later this year. This crucial summit will address access for nearly one billion people across the continent. These individuals still lack clean cooking solutions, highlighting the urgent need for continued innovation and investment. The summit aims to accelerate solutions and mobilize further resources. Kenya is at the forefront of driving these transformative changes. Its proactive approach to green hydrogen and renewable energy positions it as a beacon of sustainable development. The nation is not only securing its own energy future but also paving the way for a greener, more prosperous Africa. This commitment to innovation and collaboration sets a powerful example for the entire contiContinue Reading

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