NAIROBI – Kenya has welcomed a significant financial boost to its climate efforts after the Green Climate Fund (GCF) approved $937.66million for projects aimed at building climate resilience across the country.
Interior and National Administration Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, currently attending a global disaster risk conference in Geneva, described the approval as a “major step” for Kenya’s development agenda.
“We have 20 projects funded by the Green Climate Fund, including readiness support grants,” Murkomen told reporters after a bilateral meeting with Stephanie Speck, the GCF’s Head of Fragility, Conflict, and Violence. “These projects are crucial for addressing the impacts of climate change while promoting sustainable, low-emission growth.”
He added that climate change acts as a “threat multiplier,” worsening existing security challenges in Kenya. “It is important to pay attention to climate change and its close links to security risks,” Murkomen said.
Bridging Climate and Security
The meeting came on the sidelines of the 8th Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, where Kenya has been pushing its agenda for stronger climate adaptation and environmental restoration.
Murkomen thanked the GCF for its “continued support,” particularly praising the fund’s focus on vulnerable populations, including refugees and host communities. Kenya has asked for dedicated assistance for the Dadaab refugee camp and neighbouring areas, focusing on environmental restoration and renewable energy.
Stephanie Speck acknowledged the urgent need to tackle the overlap between climate vulnerability and humanitarian crises. She promised to explore “innovative solutions” that build resilience in these fragile settings.
“Our work must address the realities faced by people on the ground where climate risk meets conflict and displacement,” Speck said.
Kenya’s Climate Ambitions
Kenya has been among Africa’s most active countries in tapping into international climate finance. The country’s 20 GCF-funded projects range from clean energy initiatives to ecosystem restoration.
Ambassador Fancy Too, Kenya’s permanent representative to the United Nations office in Geneva, attended the meeting. She highlighted the alignment between Kenya’s national climate goals and the Green Climate Fund’s mission to support countries vulnerable to environmental shocks.
The Kenyan government has emphasised climate resilience as a flagship policy under President William Ruto’s Kenya Kwanza administration, seeking to safeguard livelihoods while fostering green growth.
Looking Ahead
As global climate risks escalate, Kenya’s engagement with funds like the GCF remains vital. Experts warn that without sustained investment in adaptation, the country’s progress on development and security could be severely undermined.
With nearly a billion dollars approved for climate-resilient projects, Kenya hopes to build on this momentum and turn funding into tangible improvements for its people.
“We welcome the support and remain committed to working closely with our partners to confront the climate challenge head-on,” Murkomen said.
This marks another chapter in Kenya’s ongoing effort to navigate the complex interplay of climate, security, and development a balancing act that will define the country’s future in a warming world.
