Climate Change in Kenya in the Context of the Big Four Agenda

On Thursday, July 18, 2019, Kenya Markets Trust convened a conversational and knowledge-sharing workshop in Nairobi focussing on the impacts of climate change in the attainment of the country’s Big Four Agenda.

Between 2014 to 2018, Kenya Markets Trust, in collaboration with Overseas Development Institute (ODI) and DFID, conducted in-depth research on the economic viability of Kenya’s ASALs in Laikipia, Kajiado, Narok and Makueni counties. The study examined climate change impacts under four thematic areas – beef value chain, private sector investment in medium and small microenterprises, migration as an adaptation strategy, and land tenure system. A further analysis was then conducted on the effect of climate on the realisation of the country’s Big Four Agenda, with a focus on Food and Nutrition Security and Manufacturing.

From this analysis, a synthesis report was created which shares insights on the potential of the ASAL areas to adapt to emerging climate change, build local resilience, attract private sector investments, and identify options and economic opportunities that ASAL economies can offer for the realisation of the Big Four Agenda and especially through Food & Nutritional Security and employment creation through Manufacturing.

“The findings of this report we share with you today, will go a long way in identifying approaches to unlock the potential of arid and semi-arid lands in Kenya and thus redefine their contribution to the national agenda,” said Mr Kamau Kuria, KMT CEO in his speech.

Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary for Agricultural Research, Prof. Hamadi Boga, Mr Mwangi Gioche applauded the work that Kenya Markets Trust, and other developmental partners, are playing in conducting research that informs policy and action in the agricultural sector.

“I appreciate the work that KMT has done in investing in this research under the Big Four Agenda,”

– Mr Mwangi Gioche, Director, Agricultural Research and Innovation

The Big Four Agenda is a flagship project of H.E. President Uhuru Kenyatta in response to the needs of the population. The objectives of this project are in line with the attainment of the country’s Vision 2030.

With funding from the UK’s Department for International Development (DFID) and Gatsby Africa, KMT is keen on developing an evidence base for transformation of various markets through commissioning of rigorous studies and analysis of the sectors it works in. We understand the context in which we work in and promote the development of climate-smart interventions in building the resilience of local communities and enterprises.