Climate and Security: Statement During the Group of Friends Meeting

Thank you for giving me the floor,

May I take this opportunity to appreciate the co-Chairs for convening this important meeting.

Excellencies, Ladies & Gentlemen,

It is evident that climate-related security risks are transforming the security landscape in many parts of the world. Kenya recognizes that climate change is a threat multiplier and is compounding already existing, vulnerabilities and fragilities to undermine peace and human security. Addressing these risks requires a holistic and concerted approach that takes into consideration the different dynamics of its effects.

Excellencies, Ladies & Gentlemen,

Allow me to emphasize on four points,

First, there is an urgent need for synergetic policy responses that are aimed at conflict prevention in situations where effects of climate change have diminished traditional sources of livelihood and income.

Second, the efficient implementation of adaptation policies and programmes, at multiple levels and scales respectively, could help avert climate change and other environmental stresses from becoming triggers of conflict. Adaptation must therefore consider existing social, political and economic tensions.

Third, the innovative application of technology and science matched to local knowledge and practices as well as local needs and risks, including the integration of climate change adaptation into public sector reforms will reduce the impact of climate change related risks.

Finally, regional early warning and response mechanisms (such as those within IGAD), combined with better data as well as collaboration between Member States, regional and international agencies, the private sector and communities themselves to deploy solutions in a security-conscious, forward-looking manner is fundamental. For such innovative work to have policy impact, it will require democratized access to critical data, and much more data sharing with African institutions, experts, professionals and researchers.

With the launch of UNEP@50 commemorations last Month during the first session of UNEA 5, and as we warm up towards COP26 and COP 15, it is important that we continue strengthening our partnerships and collaborations to drive resilience and adaptation to climate change. This must include honouring our respective commitments under the Paris Agreement.

Excellencies, Ladies & Gentlemen,

As I conclude, Kenya's commitment towards climate change is anchored in our national policies, Nationally Determined Contributions, Climate Change Action Plans and Response Strategies. Indeed, Climate and security are one of the four areas of focus during our tenure in the United Nations Security Council. We are committed to ensure that the implications of climate change on security, are prioritized. This is to avoid trapping vulnerable countries and communities in a vicious cycle of fragility, conflict and climate disasters.

We, as a group have a responsibility and must not give up with the ambition of pushing for the adoption of a resolution that will address climate-security.

I thank you.