Wildlife Works endorses Kenya’s 2035 climate target to slash emissions by 35%

KBC Digital
2 Min Read
Cabinet Secretary for Environment Dr. Deborah Barasa
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Wildlife Works has voiced strong support for Kenya’s updated Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) for the 2031–2035 period.

Under the new commitment, Kenya pledges to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 35%—equivalent to 72.25 million tonnes of CO₂e—by 2035, compared to a business-as-usual scenario. The move underscores Kenya’s ambition to advance climate action both locally and globally.

Announcing the submission, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Dr. Deborah Barasa, confirmed Kenya met the April 30 deadline and reaffirmed the country’s dedication to global climate goals. “Kenya is demonstrating its unwavering commitment to lead and contribute meaningfully to global climate action,” she said.

Wildlife Works’ Africa Climate Policy Director, Olivia Adhiambo, welcomed the submission, calling it a bold and strategic step. “Over the decades, Kenya has faced significant challenges due to climate change. This ambitious plan signals the country’s proactive stance to adapt while cutting emissions,” she noted.

The updated NDC emphasizes protecting livelihoods, infrastructure, communities, and ecosystems from climate-related impacts. It aligns with the core goals of the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global warming to well below 2°C, with efforts to cap it at 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.

To meet its targets, Kenya estimates it will need about $56 billion for climate mitigation and adaptation efforts. Of this, 19% is expected to be sourced domestically, while the remainder will rely on international support—including funding from carbon markets.

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