Let us put health at the heart of climate action
As world leaders gather at COP29 to chart a path toward a sustainable future, the need to address the health impacts of climate change has become increasingly urgent. One of the conference’s key discussions—phasing out fossil fuels—underscores how closely intertwined climate and health issues are. For Kenya, this is not a distant concern but a lived reality, and the launch of the Kenya Climate Change and Health Strategy 2024–2029 marks a pivotal moment in tackling these challenges head-on. The health impacts of fossil fuel use are evident across Kenya. In cities, vehicle emissions contribute to poor air quality, leading to respiratory diseases and other health problems. In rural areas, households rely on plastics for cooking, releasing toxic fumes and creating health risks that disproportionately affect women and children. The Kenya Climate Change and Health Strategy 2024–2029 represents a comprehensive approach to addressing the health implications of climate change while aligning with the global agenda. It prioritises actions that will transform how Kenya manages its environmental and health challenges, offering a blueprint for other nations. At the core of the strategy is the transition to clean and healthy energy systems. By promoting solar and wind power in health facilities, retrofitting buildings for energy efficiency, and integrating clean cooking technologies into households, Kenya is tackling air pollution while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. These measures directly improve public health outcomes while contributing to global climate goals. Food security is another cornerstone of the strategy. Climate change threatens yields, undermining nutrition and public health. Emphasis on sustainable agricultural practices—such as agroforestry, organic farming, and soil conservation—ensures that communities have access to nutritious diets while reducing the sector’s environmental footprint. Water, sanitation and healthcare waste management are also central to the strategy. Climate change exacerbates water scarcity and increases the prevalence of waterborne diseases. By integrating water, sanitation, and hygiene initiatives with effective health waste management, Kenya is safeguarding both human health and environmental integrity. The strategy further builds climate-resilient healthcare systems by prioritising the upgrading of health infrastructure, improving disease surveillance, and establishing early warning systems to ensure that the country can respond swiftly to climate-related health crises. What sets the strategy apart is its holistic nature, guided by the principles of One Health, which recognise the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health. It also aligns with Kenya’s international commitments under the Paris Agreement and Sustainable Development Goals. Support from partners such as the African Institute for Development Policy, the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, and the Children’s Investment Fund Foundation has grounded the strategy in evidence and global best practices. Its dynamic design allows for adaptation as new challenges and opportunities emerge. The strategy’s implementation will not only reduce the health impacts of climate change but also position Kenya as a leader in innovative, integrated climate action. It is a call to action for other nations: health and climate change cannot be treated as separate issues. By putting health at the heart of climate strategies, we can protect lives, foster resilience, and secure a sustainable future for all. At COP29, Kenya stands ready to share its vision and inspire others.