- Kenyans are most optimistic globally about tackling climate change.
- Study of 22,000 people, 24 markets shared ahead of Expo 2020’s October opening.
Image: COURTESY
Majority of Kenyans(98 per cent) believe nations must work together to combat global challenges, a new survey commissioned by Expo 2020 Dubai shows.
The 2021 survey of more than 22,000 people across 24 countries tracked sentiment in a world irrevocably changed by Covid-19.
Greater unity, collaboration and knowledge exchange was reflected throughout the study with three-quarters saying they believe greater cooperation between individuals and communities can help shape a more prosperous future.
Four out five respondents said greater knowledge sharing is imperative to shaping a better future.
“Expo 2020 has developed this latest global study to help us understand how the citizens of the world believe we can shape a better future, so we can better focus our priorities,” said Reem Al Hashimy, UAE Minister of State for International Cooperatio and Director General of Expo 2020 Dubai, said:
Kenyans are the most optimistic in the world about prospects of clean energy (66 per cent — versus the 42 per cent global response) and mankind’s ability to combat climate change (51 per cent — versus the 32 per cent global average).
These findings reflect the country’s significant recent investments in renewable energies, with Kenya currently generating 86 per cent of its electricity from wind, geothermal and hydro sources.
Looking ahead at the likelihood of a more sustainable and urban future, 64 per cent believe Kenya will have an infrastructure to support green travel such as charging stations and electric vehicles (EVs) in the next decade, while 70 per cent predict a majority of the urban population will live in sustainable smart cities.
The shift to greater urban living is further reflected by 90 per cent of respondents saying they are likely to live in an urban centre moving forward.
“Kenya is committed to 100 per cent green energy and, as this survey demonstrates, the whole country is behind us. Technological and financial innovations have brought renewables into the mainstream, and this transformation is leading to energy savings, reduced carbon emissions, greater energy diversification and job creation,” said Wilfred Marube, Commissioner General of Kenya at Expo 2020 Dubai.
Marube added that Kenya will be leveraging on the Expo to showcase unique, vibrant and transformative innovative opportunities that rejuvenate the capacity of the country's productive sectors to spur growth of our economy.