By Samuel Ouma
Kenya aspires to be a continental leader in sustainable development by increasing the use of low-carbon transportation systems and smart agriculture, said President Uhuru Kenyatta.
President Kenyatta spoke on Wednesday during the IGAD Climate Prediction and Application Centre (ICPAC) opening in Kajiado County, south of Nairobi.
He said Kenya had made tremendous progress in green energy utilization and was on course to supporting other Horn of Africa nations to develop their renewable energy capacities.
According to Kenyatta, Kenya’s continued investments in renewable energy had earned the country global recognition adding that the country is now keen on partnering with stakeholders such as IGAD in the promotion of green industries.
“We are also committed to being leaders in achieving a circular economy through efficient waste management systems and sustainable production methods. Significantly, we seek accelerated recovery through green industries and jobs with institutions such as IGAD.
“I reiterate once again our commitment to reduce carbon emissions by building resilience in our communities and play our part in supporting the transition to a net-zero carbon emissions in our economy, the IGAD region and also in our great continent of Africa,” the President said.
In the recorded video address, Kenya’s Head of State hailed ICPAC as a giant step in the fight against climate change in the region, pointing out that the centre will harness innovative technologies and knowledge to advance climate-related work.
“I am pleased to note that the centre has over the years, enabled the Horn of Africa to grow a cadre of climate scientists; and created strong networks with other regional and international organizations, to provide evidence-based approaches towards the empowerment of vulnerable populations in our region,” the President added.
ICPAC is a Climate Center accredited by the World Meteorological Organization that provides climate services to eleven East African nations. Services provided by the centre aim to create resilience in a region deeply affected by climate change and extreme weather patterns.
