In a showcase of commitment to environmental stewardship, Nakuru County, under the visionary leadership of H.E Governor Susan Kihika, took center stage at the African Climate Change Week held at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC). The event convened African City Leaders, governance experts, and global influencers in the field of environment and urban planning, with Nakuru’s City Manager, Gitau Thabanja, playing a pivotal role in representing Governor Kihika.
The discussions were marked by a shared determination to transform cities through climate action, recognizing the urgent need for sustainable practices in the face of climate change. Gitau Thabanja outlined Nakuru’s key projects and programs designed to combat, adapt to, and mitigate the impacts of climate change. The City Manager emphasized various urban planning interventions, highlighting Governor Kihika’s six-point urban agenda focused on sustainable urban development.
Governor Susan Kihika’s unwavering commitment to addressing climate change challenges while fostering sustainable urban development was evident throughout the discussions. Nakuru City, through the County Government and the Nakuru City Board, is dedicated to ensuring the well-being of its residents by proactively tackling the issues posed by climate change and rapid urbanization.
The county’s approach goes beyond mitigation efforts; it seeks to maximize socio-economic opportunities arising from climate action initiatives. This holistic strategy aims to promote sustainable urban development and enhance climate resilience simultaneously, creating a model that is gaining national and regional recognition.
Nakuru City’s transformative climate change initiatives have positioned it as a beacon for other emerging cities in Africa. The city’s commitment to combatting climate change has not gone unnoticed, receiving commendation for its dedication to sustainable urban development. Keynote speakers at the event, including UN-Habitat Deputy Director Michael Mlynar, Former Minister of Urban Planning and Cities Policies of Morocco Nouzha Bouchareb, UNEP representative Mirey Attalah, and the Honorable Mayor of Walvis Bay, Namibia, Trevino Forbes, applauded Nakuru’s pioneering efforts.
As Nakuru County emerges as a model for sustainable urban development and climate resilience, the impact of Governor Susan Kihika’s leadership is felt not only locally but resonates as an inspiration for cities across Africa. The high-level discussions at the African Climate Change Week solidified Nakuru’s role as a trailblazer in the journey towards environmentally conscious, resilient, and sustainable urban centers.
