Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has underscored the urgent need to treat climate change as a critical national and regional security issue.
Speaking at the 2nd Africa Climate Summit (ACS2) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, Dr. Omollo emphasized that the impacts of climate change extend far beyond environmental concerns, posing significant threats to stability and security across the continent.
Dr. Omollo is hosting a side event at the summit themed “Climate Change as a National and Regional Security Priority,” where he is showcasing Kenya’s innovative approach to addressing climate challenges.
Central to his presentation is the Chiefs’ Network, a grassroots initiative mobilizing households and communities to participate in tree-growing efforts.
This initiative aligns with Kenya’s ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032, a cornerstone of the country’s climate resilience strategy.
“Climate change is no longer just an environmental issue. It is a national and regional security priority,” Dr. Omollo declared on the sidelines of the summit.
He highlighted how environmental degradation, resource scarcity, and climate-induced displacement are increasingly linked to security challenges, including conflicts over land and water.
By integrating climate resilience into national security planning, Kenya aims to mitigate these risks and build a sustainable future.
By engaging households and communities, the initiative fosters collective action to combat deforestation, restore ecosystems, and enhance climate resilience. Dr. Omollo noted that this approach not only supports Kenya’s environmental goals but also strengthens social cohesion and local governance, key components of national security.