The American Institutes for Research (AIR) hosted a significant conference at the Confucius Institute Building, Gunctional Hall, under the theme “Climate Change Impacts on Systems and Health: Resilience and Adaptation”, on October 24, 2024, This gathering marked a pivotal moment in the collaboration between AIR and Kenyatta University (KU), showcasing the commitment to address pressing climate issues. Dr. Titus Kahiga, Co-convener of the conference and a representative from the School of Health Sciences, expressed his excitement about presenting the compendium of abstracts at the KU Climate Change Conference. Reflecting on the partnership established six months prior through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Dr. Kahiga emphasised the importance of the interest both parties shared in testing this collaboration. “Like a trial marriage, we aimed to ensure both parties could adhere to our shared vision,” he noted. Although a grant application submitted earlier did not succeed, the experience provided valuable lessons, paving the way for this vital conference on climate change and its effects.

The partnership involved multiple disciplines, including the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, the School of Business, Economics and Tourism, and the School of Health Sciences. This interdisciplinary approach highlights the multifaceted nature of the climate crisis.

Ms. Christine Kiecha-Masasabi, Managing Director and Conference Convenor at AIR for Kenya and Ethiopia, articulated the urgent need to address climate change impacts. She pointed out the alarming trends of displacement caused by climate events, such as wildfires in Canada and the prolonged droughts affecting East Africa. “These challenges threaten our food systems and security, with rising food prices and endangered wildlife,” she said. The collaboration with Kenyatta University exemplifies the collective power of research and innovation in tackling these pressing issues and leading to more sustainable, resilient solutions.

Prof. James Kung’u, Acting Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), acknowledged AIR’s efforts in organising the conference. He highlighted the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable populations, particularly in the Global South. “Kenya has firsthand experience with these changes—erratic rainfall patterns and their consequences have severely affected agriculture, the backbone of our economy,” he noted. Farming, being inherently weather-dependent, faces heightened risks due to climate variability, leading to decreased yields and increased food insecurity. Prof. Kung’u stressed the importance of climate mitigation strategies,
including carbon offsets and supportive public policies, to safeguard agricultural livelihoods and promote resilience.

Kenyatta University’s Ag. Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Waceke Wanjohi, warmly welcomed attendees and underscored the University’s commitment to addressing climate change as a core component of its mission. “Our philosophy at KU is deeply rooted in sensitivity and responsiveness to societal needs,” she stated. She introduced the Green Education Hub, launched in 2022, which focuses on research and data dissemination regarding climate resilience. The hub also hosts the UNESCO Chair, emphasising sustainable curricula and fostering public-private partnerships to enhance youth employability.
With a background in plant pathology, Prof. Wanjohi shared her personal connection to the challenges posed by climate change. She highlighted the critical role that expertise in plant health plays in developing adaptive strategies for agriculture, such as identifying disease-resistant crops and promoting sustainable farming practices.

In closing, Prof. Wanjohi expressed gratitude to all participants for attending the conference at Kenyatta University, reaffirming the institution's dedication to fostering actionable solutions in the face of climate change.
Mr. John Elung’ata represented the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, contributing to the discussions on policies and frameworks necessary for addressing the climate crisis effectively. He highlighted the state department's ongoing initiatives, including the National Climate Change Action Plan, which aims to enhance resilience across sectors and improve adaptive capacities. The ministry is committed to promoting community engagement and education to empower local populations in implementing sustainable practices. Through initiatives like renewable energy projects, reforestation, and sustainable agricultural methods, the government seeks to mitigate the impacts of climate change and secure a more resilient future for all Kenyans.