By Tobby Otum
The government is currently implementing the second National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP) for the period 2018-2022.
Environment and Forestry Principal Secretary Betty Maina said NCCAP is the vehicle for delivering the country’s Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement.
She pointed out the National Forestry Programme 2016-2030 as a strategic framework for forest policy, recognizes that REDD+ provides an opportunity to promote effective governance in the forest sector.
‘’I am aware that REDD+ preparedness process will enhance forest management through promotion of a multi stakeholder and inclusive approach in the sector,” she pointed out.
Betty said the move is key towards promotion of shared responsibilities in the implementation of environmental and forestry related policies and laws aimed at addressing drivers of forest loss.
She made her remarks during the REDD+ Academy forum held at Voyager beach hotel in Mombasa County.
The PS said in her speech the move contributes to increasing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and concomitant losses of social benefits, well being and ecosystem services.
Betty told the participants the ministry will continue to play its lead role in coordinating climate change affairs in the country.
She reiterated such forums of training and interactions will contribute to REDD+ readiness by way of putting in place mechanisms to enable Kenya to reach its overall REDD+ goal.
“The move is meant to improve livelihoods and well being, conserve biodiversity, contribute to the national aspiration of attaining a minimum 10 percent forest cover as required,” she said.
In his opening remarks, Forest Carbon Partnership Facility REDD+ readiness Project’s Walid Badawi said the REDD+ Academy objective is to enable Kenya’s current and future decision-makers to support national REDD+ development and implementation.
He added in 2016, UNDP was approached by the World Bank and the government of Kenya to
discuss the possibility of UNDP becoming a Delivery Partner for Kenya.
“We duly considered this request, and after our due diligence process, confirmed for interest in supporting Kenya.’’ he added.
