CS Barasa highlights Kenya's climate agenda at COP30

At the annual climate summit, Barasa positioned Kenya as a global climate leader and a key voice for Africa in climate finance, adaptation, and environmental restoration.

Recently appointed co-facilitator for climate finance, the CS co-chaired a high-level dialogue with UK Minister Katie White, calling for predictable, accessible, grant-based climate finance. 

The environment minister further urged developed countries to honour their commitments under the Paris Agreement as it is “a matter of justice, not charity.”

At COP30, the CS advanced Kenya’s climate agenda through bilateral meetings with officials from the United Kingdom, Singapore, Switzerland and China. 

The meetings highlighted Kenya’s 15-billion-tree programme, forest restoration, Kenya’s carbon market pipeline and investments in technology-based climate solutions. 

The talks also included Article 6 carbon market cooperation and clarify authorization processes, renewable energy partnerships and collaboration on river regeneration, ecosystem restoration, and green job creation.

“Kenya will continue to lead with clarity and conviction. Our actions today must secure a resilient, just and sustainable future for our people,” CS Barasa said.

The CS also presented Africa’s unified position during the COP30 high-level segment, highlighting the continent’s urgent adaptation needs and calling for a credible Global Goal on Adaptation with measurable indicators.

In the presence of UN Secretary-General António Guterres, she emphasized Africa’s priorities on adaptation, climate finance, and loss and damage, and requested continued UN support in elevating Africa’s stance in global negotiations.

At Belem, CS Barasa also convened the Kenyan delegation, including Principal Secretaries, Governors, MPs, NEMA, civil society, youth and private sector, aligning national priorities and strengthening coordination during the summit.