Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice Cohort IV: The Countdown Begins

The much-anticipated Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice (NSSCJ) Cohort IV is just a day away from kicking off with an International High-Level Symposium, marking the commencement of this year’s program. This year’s cohort showcases a vibrant representation from 87 countries worldwide, with 52 of these being African nations. Eligible participants, brimming with anticipation, are gearing up for the two-week intensive program.

The event’s host, the Kenya Platform for Climate Governance has been at the forefront of organizing and executing various pre-events. Yesterday, the final town hall meeting took place at Chuka University, the main host for this cohort. Nestled on the slopes of Mt. Kenya, Chuka University is renowned for its focus on environmental conservation and sustainability solutions, making it an ideal venue for this significant gathering.

The town hall meeting was well-attended, featuring representation from the 7th Mt. Kenya University, Meru University, Tharaka Nithi University, and the University of Embu. The local community, civil society organizations (CSOs), county government officials, youth groups, differently-abled individuals, and the SMACH Foundation were all present, creating a dynamic and engaged audience.

The town hall discussions revolved around the history of climate change and the current climate-related disasters that the world faces today. Dr. Mithika Mwenda, the Executive Director of the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance, opened the discussion by emphasizing that climate change is not solely an environmental issue but a cross-cutting one, complicating the development of effective solutions. He also touched on the recent SB60 held in Bonn, Germany, explaining its role in global climate change dialogues.

Dr. Mwenda highlighted that the solutions to climate change lie within our actions, advocating for lifestyle changes, awareness of drought-resistant crops, and strategic tree planting. His remarks resonated with the audience, underscoring the importance of local action in global climate efforts.

Professor Henry Mutembei, Vice Chancellor of Chuka University, contributed to the conversation by discussing the role of agriculture in climate change. With extensive experience in drought and disaster management and a background in farming, Professor Mutembei pointed out that human greed and short-sightedness have exacerbated climate challenges. He stressed the need for focused and ethical leadership to address these issues effectively.

Eng. Giti Kijiru, CECM for Roads and Infrastructure in Tharaka Nithi County, shared a poignant example of the climate crisis’s local impact. He recounted how Thingidu River, once consistently full, dried up three years ago due to climate change.

Professor Simon Thuranira and Dr. Mwenda further explored the historical and geopolitical factors contributing to the current climate crisis. They discussed how colonial legacies and land displacement have intensified climate-related issues, disrupting communities and livelihoods.

The panelists delved into a wide range of topics, including the need for proper data collection and research to inform disaster management, the lack of preparedness among communities and key actors, and the insufficient allocation of resources by national and local governments. They also highlighted the importance of including private sector stakeholders and differently-abled individuals in the conversation, recognizing their potential to contribute to sustainable solutions.

The audience was actively engaged, emphasizing the need for meaningful youth involvement in governance and climate action. They called for prioritizing agriculture, research, and effective communication to manage climate change issues better.

The town hall concluded with a powerful call to action. Participants, both present and virtual, were urged to remain curious and engaged in climate change matters. Even the smallest actions, they were reminded, can contribute significantly to achieving climate justice. The overarching message was clear: no one should be left behind in the fight against climate change. Collaborative efforts, holding governments accountable, and ensuring a sustainable future for all generations were highlighted as essential steps forward.

As the Nairobi Summer School on Climate Justice Cohort IV begins, the enthusiasm and commitment displayed at the town hall meetings set a promising tone for the intense program ahead. Participants are prepared to engage, learn, and take meaningful action towards climate justice.

Catch the whole conversation here: