Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary Festus Ng'eno on Tuesday held bilateral talks with the Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Kenya, Kang Hyung-shik, in Nairobi to explore joint efforts in tackling waste and transport emissions.
The meeting was a follow-up to their engagement during the 7th United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7).
It focused on how the two countries can cooperate on waste management, circular economy initiatives, and e-mobility solutions.
The discussions zeroed in on plans to establish Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) in Kisumu, Mombasa, Nakuru, Eldoret and Nairobi.
These facilities are expected to boost recycling, improve waste segregation, and reduce emissions through waste-to-energy investments.
Ng'eno emphasised that Kenya’s climate ambitions hinge on cutting emissions in its most polluting sectors.
“Waste and transport are among the country’s highest-emitting sectors. Partnerships advancing decarbonization are critical to achieving Kenya’s climate goals,” Ng'eno said.
Ambassador Kang, on his part, highlighted Korea’s interest in supporting Kenya’s clean transport agenda.
He pointed to potential cooperation in developing a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system along Mombasa Road to Jomo Kenyatta International Airport, as well as scaling up electric mobility solutions such as electric motorbikes.
“Kenya has the opportunity to leapfrog into sustainable transport. Korea is ready to support with technology and investment in e-mobility,” Kang said.
The talks also touched on the broader circular economy, with both sides agreeing that recycling and clean energy investments are central to reducing urban pollution and creating green jobs.
The Principal Secretary was accompanied by Environment Secretary Selly Kimosop and Deputy Director for Waste Management and Pollution Control, Njoroge Mbitu.
The meeting underscored Kenya’s push to align with global climate action while tapping into international partnerships to deliver practical solutions in its cities.
By linking waste management with clean transport, officials said the collaboration could help Kenya cut emissions, improve urban living standards, and accelerate its transition to a low-carbon economy.
