Gachagua, UAE minister hold talks on upcoming climate summits

Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has met with United Arab Emirates' Minister for Climate Change and Environment Mariam Almheiri on climate-related talks.

The two discussed various issues including the high-level climate change conferences in Nairobi and Dubai, and how to implement the outcomes of the assemblies.

"We explored the linkage between Climate Change, Food Systems and the two high-level Conferences on Climate Change in Nairobi and Dubai, and implementation of the expected outcomes," Gachagua said after the meeting.

The DP and Almheiri held the talks on the sidelines of the United Nations Food Systems Summit in Rome, Italy.

He noted that Kenya and UAE enjoy long and cordial relations, adding that they are looking forward to strengthening the ties.

They will prioritise relations on issues of climate action.

Nairobi will host the Africa Climate Summit (ACS) from September 4 to September 6, 2023, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre (KICC).

The Summit aims at addressing the increasing exposure to climate change and come up with climate financing solutions for Africa and the world at large.

"The Summit will serve as a platform to inform, frame, and influence commitments, pledges, and outcomes, ultimately leading to the development of the Nairobi Declaration," a statement on the ACS reads in part.

The 28th Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP28) will be held at Expo City Dubai from November 30 to December 12, 2023. 

UAE Minister for Industry and Cooperatives, Sultan Al-Jaber is the designated President for COP28.

In June, President William Ruto said Kenya will partner with UAE to ensure COP28 succeeds.

"We are determined to work hand in hand to ensure Cop28 and the African Climate Action Summit will deliver real and tangible results for the climate as well as the people of Africa, and the world," Ruto said during a meeting with Sultan Al-Jaber.