Kenya should always take the front seat during climate change talks

An aerial view Milimani area in Maragua town which was affected by floods following heavy down pour. [Boniface Gikandi, Standard]

Human-induced climate change is one of the biggest global challenges of our time. Ecosystems, economies, and societies worldwide are affected by its impacts. Even though they have contributed little to the emissions of fossil fuels that caused the problem, the Global South is poised to be the worst affected.

The contribution of Africa to global greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) has been reported to be about 3.5 per cent of the worldwide output - the smallest share globally. The Paris Agreement recognises common but differentiated responsibility, noting that developed and developing countries have distinct roles in tackling climate change, considering their historical contributions to GHGs. Under the Paris Agreement, developed countries must provide financial resources, technology transfer, and capacity-building support to developing countries. This reflects broader considerations of equity, justice, and historical responsibility.