Wetang’ula urges locally-tailored climate solutions at Commonwealth meet

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula makes his address at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) meeting in Bridgetown, Barbados/HANDOUT

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula has called for grassroots-driven and locally tailored solutions to address environmental challenges.

Wetang’ula urged greater empowerment of both citizens and institutions in the global fight against climate change.

Speaking at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) meeting in Bridgetown, Barbados, Wetang’ula emphasised the need for action-oriented policies that reflect regional realities and strengthen environmental conservation efforts.

“We need programmes that empower both citizens and institutions to conserve the environment for years to come, like the Kenya dream to plant 15 billion trees in 10 years,” said Wetang’ula.

In his address to fellow Speakers and delegates, Wetang’ula highlighted the urgency for robust environmental safeguards and innovation, stressing the importance of shared responsibility in safeguarding the planet for future generations.

The Speaker also underscored the CPA’s role in promoting good governance, inclusion, and democratic integrity.

“Our association must continue building capacity, sharing best practices, empowering women and young parliamentarians, and defending the integrity of democratic institutions,” he said.

Touching on global issues, Wetang’ula urged Commonwealth nations to be active partners in the quest for climate justice, renewable energy, and open trade.

“We have to partner in the push for climate justice, for a renewable energy revolution, eliminate trade barriers among Commonwealth countries and promote investment opportunities,” he said.

He also addressed the impact of emerging technologies like Artificial Intelligence (AI), highlighting its transformative power in governance and public service delivery.

“With AI reshaping industries, governance, and daily life, we must speak boldly about the opportunities it brings — improved decision-making, efficiency, and new avenues for inclusive participation,” Wetang’ula said.

However, he cautioned against misinformation, calling for a culture of fact-checking and media literacy. “There is need to ensure AI is used with vigilance, and that fact-checking online is a collective obligation.”

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula(second right) with the Kenyan delegation at the 68th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) meeting in Bridgetown, Barbados/HANDOUT

The Speaker further emphasised the role of parliaments in ensuring democratic accountability and transparency, reminding participants of the fundamental roles of legislation, oversight, and representation.

“Governments propose, but it is parliaments that debate, amend and decide. You scrutinize budgets, ratify treaties, pass laws that give life to our commitments, and hold the executive to account,” he asserted.

Commonwealth Secretary-General Shirley Botchwey echoed Wetang’ula’s sentiments, urging member countries to reaffirm their shared values and work collaboratively for a better future.

“Let us leave Bridgetown with renewed energy, not only to debate the future, but to shape it. Because the world needs hope. It needs cooperation. It needs solutions. And the Commonwealth – through its parliaments, its governments, and its people – can provide all three,” she said.