Introduction to Kenya’s Climate and Development Initiatives
In a significant move towards achieving its climate targets and promoting sustainable development, Kenya has launched two key projects funded by the Mitigation Action Facility. These initiatives, supported by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the United Nations Capital Development Fund (UNCDF), and the World Resources Institute (WRI), aim to address critical environmental and economic challenges while fostering long-term resilience.
Solar-Powered Cold Storage: A Game-Changer for Farmers
One of the flagship projects is the nationwide rollout of solar-powered cold storage units. This initiative, developed in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, will see the deployment of 1,000 solar-powered cold storage units across the country. The primary objective of this project is to reduce post-harvest losses, which are a major issue in Kenya due to inadequate cold-chain infrastructure and unreliable electricity supply.
The project is expected to preserve 5,000 tonnes of food, benefiting approximately 60,000 smallholder farmers. It aligns with Kenya’s Climate-Smart Agriculture Strategy and its updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs). Over its lifetime, the initiative is projected to avoid 4.8 million tonnes of CO₂e, significantly contributing to Kenya’s climate goals.
Dr Jean-Luc Stalon, the UNDP Kenya Resident Representative, emphasized that the challenge of post-harvest losses presents a substantial opportunity. “Within this challenge lies a $2.1 billion opportunity to strengthen our cold chain, ensure food reaches our tables, boost our economy and build a more resilient future,” he stated.
Omon Ukpoma-Olaiya, the UNCDF Regional Investment Team Lead, highlighted the role of concessional loans and guarantees in de-risking private capital. These financial instruments will be directed to large operators, technology providers, and local financial institutions, aiming to enhance farmer incomes and build a sustainable cold-chain ecosystem.
Electrifying Kenya’s Two and Three Wheelers: A Step Towards Clean Mobility
The second project, titled ‘Electrifying Kenya’s Two and Three Wheelers,’ is a five-year national programme led by WRI. This initiative aims to accelerate the adoption of clean two- and three-wheel transport, which constitutes Kenya’s most common mobility segment. With tailored financing, the programme targets about 68,000 electric vehicles across Kilifi, Kiambu, and Kajiado, supporting Kenya’s enhanced NDC goal of a 32% emissions reduction by 2030.
The project is expected to cut 1 million tonnes of emissions over ten years, create approximately 68,000 green jobs, and bolster local electric vehicle (EV) assembly and manufacturing. George Mwaniki, the WRI Kenya Country Representative, noted that the segment is primed for transformation. “Two-wheelers account for over 70% of annual vehicle registrations, and with 90% of Kenya’s electricity from renewables, electrifying this fleet offers a high-impact path to avoid fossil-fuel lock-in while supporting growth.”
Government Support and Broader Implications
Dr Eng. Festus Ng’eno, Principal Secretary for Environment, praised the initiatives as examples of how climate action and development can advance together. “By supporting farmers with solar cold storage and expanding clean transport, we are reducing emissions while building resilient communities and local industries,” he said.
These projects represent a significant step forward in Kenya’s journey toward a sustainable and low-carbon future. They not only address immediate environmental concerns but also lay the groundwork for long-term economic growth and resilience.