President William Ruto has launched the ambitious ClimateWorx Program, a nationwide climate resilience initiative aimed at addressing the effects of climate change, restoring ecosystems, and creating employment opportunities for Kenya’s youth.
Speaking at the launch event in Nairobi, the President highlighted the critical need for urgent action, citing the adverse effects of pollution, environmental degradation, and climate change on the well-being of Kenyans.
“We are here to witness the effects of climate change and pollution on the environment and human well-being,” President Ruto remarked. “At the same time, we are here to affirm the possibility of transforming this undesirable situation through effective partnerships and inclusive, impactful remedial efforts.”
The ClimateWorx Program, the first step of the National Climate Resilience Programme, aims to employ 200,000 young Kenyans in various climate and infrastructure projects across the country.
These projects will focus on restoring ecosystems, improving urban infrastructure, and enhancing the livability of cities and neighborhoods.
President Ruto emphasized that the program will not only mitigate the risks of flooding and pollution but also provide young people with opportunities to actively engage in Kenya’s climate action agenda.
“ClimateWorx is a powerful, inclusive, and transformative intervention that focuses on ecological restoration while creating opportunities for our youth,” he said. “It will employ thousands of young men and women in the development of critical infrastructure, including social housing, footbridges, and green spaces, as well as urban cleanliness and tree planting initiatives.”
The President also outlined the government’s commitment to improving safety in settlements within the Nairobi River Basin and expanding the mandate of the Nairobi Rivers Commission to promote sustainable urban development.
In addition, he directed all relevant agencies to enforce waste management laws to protect rivers and prevent the illegal dumping of solid waste and effluents in urban areas.
“To achieve this vital goal, the cooperation and commitment of all stakeholders is crucial,” President Ruto emphasized, urging full enforcement of waste management laws to safeguard Kenya’s natural resources for future generations.
