Kenya and France have reaffirmed their commitment to enhanced climate action and sustainable development through strengthened bilateral cooperation, following high-level talks held in Nairobi between senior government officials from both countries.
The Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr. Deborah M. Barasa, hosted a French delegation led by Agnès Pannier-Runacher, France’s Minister of Ecological Transition, Biodiversity, Forest, Sea and Fishing.
The meeting focused on mobilizing global climate finance, advancing bilateral climate partnerships, and strategically aligning positions ahead of the upcoming UNFCCC COP30 summit in Belém, Brazil.
With a shared goal of amplifying the African voice in global climate negotiations, both sides emphasized the need for cohesive strategies that reflect the continent’s priorities in climate resilience, adaptation, and green growth.
“This meeting marks a pivotal moment in our efforts to strengthen climate diplomacy between Kenya and France. We are committed to building a united front that ensures Africa’s voice is heard loud and clear at COP30,” said Dr. Barasa.
The talks also explored practical avenues for collaboration in forest conservation, biodiversity protection, and blue economy initiatives—critical sectors in both nations’ climate agendas.
Also in attendance were the French Ambassador to Kenya, H.E. Mr. Arnaud Suquet; Kenya’s Principal Secretaries Dr. Eng. Festus Ng’eno (Environment and Climate Change), Mr. Gitonga Mugambi (Forestry), and Ms. Betsy Njagi (Blue Economy), underscoring the high-level nature of the engagement.
The bilateral meeting signals a step forward in cementing Kenya and France’s role as key actors in the global push for environmental sustainability and climate justice.
