Nairobi – The Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) has pledged to enhance its commitment to climate resilience and green growth in Africa, aligning with global climate action goals ahead of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28). At the High-Level Private Sector Post ACS- Pre- COP 28 Forum in Nairobi, Principal Secretary Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Dr. Korir Singoei, commended Kenyan businesses for their proactive steps in building climate resilience.

According to Kenya News Agency, the Ministry is focused on fostering collaboration with the private sector, both in Kenya and across Africa, through climate diplomacy networks. This collaboration aims to support green development, ensure sustainable growth, and position Africa as a key player in global climate discussions. “No country or private sector should have to choose between development aspirations and climate action,” said the PS.

KEPSA CEO Ms. Carole Kariuki emphasized the private sector’s role in driving transformative climate action, referring to the adoption of Private Sector Recommendations in the Africa Climate Summit (ACS) – Nairobi Declaration. Kariuki highlighted the importance of strategic planning and regional collaboration in exploiting Africa’s resources sustainably, underscoring the private sector’s critical role in promoting innovation and sustainable markets.

Hanna Salian, the Head of Energy Transport and Climate Change at GIZ, reaffirmed Germany’s commitment to supporting Kenya and Africa in climate action and sustainable solutions. Salian stressed the collective effort required to champion green growth and climate finance plans.

Dr. Cyrille Siewe, Head of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Africa Country Programme, reiterated the UN’s support for climate action in Kenya and Africa. “Our commitment to work closely with the private sector and the government is unwavering, and we aim to contribute actively to global efforts towards a sustainable future,” said Dr. Cyrille.

Dr. John Chumo, CEO of the Office of the First Lady of the Republic of Kenya, emphasized the need for a unified African voice at COP 28, highlighting the importance of collaboration and multi-stakeholder efforts in scaling up climate action.

The summit, organized by KEPSA in partnership with the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, UNEP, and GIZ, brought together leaders from the private sector, policymakers, and stakeholders to address climate change challenges and prepare for COP 28, scheduled from November 30 to December 12, 2023, in the UAE.