The 2025 Climate Action Summit began with a strong call for united and inclusive climate governance. It brought together government leaders, experts, and youth under the theme “Driving Sustainable Innovation for Inclusive Growth and Development.”
Bishop Margaret Wanjiru, Chairperson of the Nairobi Rivers Commission, welcomed delegates and stressed that climate action should go beyond policies and isolated projects. It should become systems that work, connecting national goals with local realities. She highlighted the Commission’s hands-on approach through the Nairobi Rivers Regeneration Project, which is transforming communities through environmental restoration, job creation, and social inclusion.
Wanjiru also explained the Commission’s mandate. It covers all three river ecosystems: Nairobi, Ngong, and Mathare, not just the Nairobi River. “We deliver tangible results on the ground,” she said, urging youth participants to stay involved throughout the Summit’s discussions.
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During the keynote address, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Deborah Mlongo Barasa, praised Kenya’s growing role in climate governance. She mentioned the Climate Change (Amendment) Act 2023, the Climate Change Fund, and the ongoing 15-Billion Tree Growing Initiative, which has already planted over 1.06 billion trees.
She commended the Nairobi Rivers Commission for its integrated approach and highlighted Kenya’s commitment to lead Africa’s unified climate agenda at COP30 and COP31. “Kenya’s climate leadership is not about ambition; it’s about action, inclusion, and impact,” she said.
The Summit, co-convened by the Kenya School of Government, the National Youth Council, and several partners, aims to enhance cooperation and speed up the country’s move toward a sustainable, climate-resilient future.
