Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has said that achieving global food security requires collective and intensified efforts in addressing the climate change menace.
Speaking on Monday, Mudavadi said that Kenya will remain at the forefront as an active agent in ensuring climate change is addressed, to attain food security.
“Climate Change is an overarching shadow against attaining food security. The worsening situation of Climate Change is exacerbating the vulnerabilities of our food systems like never before,” he said.
“Kenya has been a proactive agent of change, leading from the front in rallying the African voice. But we are not begging, our fate is tied to commitments that must be honoured. Our continent, rich in diversity and spirit, has long-held a shared perspective on the climate crisis.”
Mudavadi who was addressing the World Food Programme (WFP) meeting and launch of WFP finance strategy 2027 in Nairobi said Kenya will emphasize on the pressing need for climate finance for investment in climate-resilient food systems.
He noted that the spectre of climate change is universal, but its repercussions are felt most severe in regions like ours and such regions must be supported by compensation.
The Prime Cabinet Secretary stated that the intricacies of global contests brought about by climate change and economic disruptions should give organisations like WFP the motivation and courage to lead from the front, not just as responders, but as drivers of the change the world needs.
He urged the WFP to save countries from international bureaucratic exhaustion that has increased market volatility.
“We all know that conflict, economic shocks, climate extremes and soaring fertiliser prices are combining to create a food crisis of unprecedented proportions. Stand tall and give the world some respite from unproductive contests, be they war or Climate Change truancy,” Mudavadi said.
He added that the recently concluded first Africa Climate Summit was a testament to the unity needed to fight climate change.
Mudavadi insisted that the Nairobi Declaration is not just a symbol of collective resolve and vision for a sustainable future but also an affirmation that Africa deserves better for the pains in sheltering humanity.
He added that the declaration should be amplified for its echoes to resonate and influence the next course of universal action on climate change hence Kenya turning to its trusted partners, like the WFP.
“You have walked with us, understood the intricacies of our challenges, and have been integral to our journey. It is time to raise our voices together, to ensure that the Nairobi Declaration is not just heard, but acted upon," Mudavadi said.
“Again, our collective future hinges on our ability to convert commitments into actions, and Kenya stands ready, with partners by our side, to lead this charge."
