Effects of climate change on the environment and public health will be on the agenda of discussion at the Africa Climate Summit.
The summit will open on Monday at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre, Nairobi until Wednesday, September 6.
The Ministry of Health has said the nation is reaffirming its unwavering commitment to address the detrimental effects of climate change on health.
In a statement on Sunday, the State Department for Public Health and Professional Standards PS Mary Muriuki said five of the leading causes of death in Kenya are climate-sensitive.
She said they are expected to worsen with projected climate variability and change.
"The profound effects of climate change on health are undeniable, with escalating temperatures, extreme weather events and evolving disease patterns posing substantial threats," the PS said.
"Heatwaves induce physical stress, while water and vector-borne diseases surge, and droughts bring forth mental health challenges," she added.
The PS said the adverse effects of climate change on health disproportionately affect vulnerable populations, including those in rural areas, women, children, the elderly, individuals with pre-existing conditions, internally displaced persons and refugees.
"MoH is spearheading this effort with groundbreaking initiatives, including the solarisation of health facilities, the prioritisation of eco-friendly products and equipment and the adoption of non-burn technology for clinical waste management in high-volume healthcare facilities across the nation," PS Muriuki said.
She added that the ministry will run a series of events on the sidelines of the Summit to address the challenges.
The events include the launch of the Kemri Air Pollution Center of Excellence at KNH Grounds, Nairobi, a captivating exhibition at the Kenya House Pavilion, KICC September 4 to 8 2023, and the Health and Environment Ministerial Convening forum on September 5, 2023, at KICC.
