Climate change is not a distant threat but a daily reality in the ASALs of Kenya. ASALs have borne the brunt of climate change, ranging from prolonged droughts to severe floods that have disrupted traditional livelihoods and exacerbated the existing vulnerabilities. These impacts have further led to climate-driven conflicts, widening social inequalities and erosion of positive cultural practices, thereby undermining community livelihood and survival. Addressing these climate shocks is, therefore, a priority.

In addressing climate shocks, we work with ASAL communities in a range of areas, including smart, sustainable livelihoods adaptation; climate change, cultural heritage, and indigenous knowledge management; climate peace and security; climate justice, gender, equity, and socio-economic inclusion; and climate governance and finance. To this end, we work with communities to develop and implement climate-smart agricultural practices, promote sustainable livestock management, and support the diversification of livelihoods. Furthermore, in recognition of the invaluable role of indigenous knowledge and cultural practices in building resilience, we co-create solutions with the communities, integrating indigenous knowledge with modern science and technology to develop innovative solutions that are both effective and culturally appropriate. Accordingly, our work supports cultural practices that promote environmental stewardship, such as agroforestry and rainwater harvesting. Together with the communities we serve, we seek to adapt cultural heritage sites and traditions to the changing climate, ensuring that they can continue to inspire and build capacity in future generations. We have, therefore, prioritised capacity building and access to climate information services to enable communities to make informed decisions about their livelihoods and adapt to changing climatic conditions.

Further, we support the development of inclusive governance structures that amplify the voices of marginalised groups and ensure that climate policies and programmes address concerns of ASAL populations.

CLIMATE ACTION – SDG 13

As a central priority of Official Development Assistance (ODA), climate action (SDG 13) serves as the cornerstone of sustainable development, with deep interlinkages across all 16 other SDGs. Addressing the climate crisis is a critical prerequisite for achieving the global goals, while simultaneous progress in areas like poverty eradication, health, and energy simultaneously bolsters climate resilience and mitigation. This symbiotic relationship makes the cohesive implementation of the SDG framework and the Paris Agreement a vital imperative for a just and sustainable world.