Report on Climate Change, Peace, and Security Initiatives in Kenya

Climate Change Intensifies Extreme Weather and Human Insecurity in Kenya

Climate change is a recognized catalyst behind the increasing frequency of extreme weather events and subsequent human insecurities. In Kenya, heavy rainfall has wrecked havoc, damaging infrastructure, crops, livestock, and causing significant loss of life and property. Arid and Semi-Arid Counties (ASACs), already strained by five consecutive failed rainy seasons followed by the recent floods, are particularly vulnerable. The need for climate-resilient, peace-sensitive solutions to address ongoing resource-based conflicts, such as those over water and pasture, is urgent as these issues are exacerbated by climate change, creating a vicious cycle of escalating tensions.

Environmental Challenges and Opportunities in ASACs

ASACs face a myriad of environmental challenges threatening community stability. These include droughts, heat stress, extreme rains, flooding, land degradation, loss of biodiversity, inter-ethnic violence, cattle rustling, border disputes, and land conflicts. Despite these hurdles, there are significant opportunities for transformation and innovation.

The Role of Science and Technology in Addressing Climate Change

The Alliance plays a crucial role in addressing these challenges through science. Through Alliance’s Climate Resilience initiative (ClimBeR), an online tool (Climate Security Observatory) that collates research on how climate exacerbates conflict, where it occurs, who is affected, and what can be done to break the cycle and build resilience was developed. The CSO identifies climate security hotspots within 21 km² grids, highlighting areas where conflict, extreme climate conditions, and socioeconomic vulnerabilities intersect. This data informs policymakers and stakeholders to design targeted interventions.