Water fountain around Mzee Jomo Kenyatta monument outside KICC during the African Climate Summit Nairobi 2023. [Stafford Ondego, Standard]
Kenya Green Building Society (KGBS), in collaboration with the Financial Deepening Sector (FSD Africa) and the International Finance Corporation (IFC) are determined to help county governments tackle climate change by developing sustainable projects.
Speaking during the handing over of the IFC EDGE plaque and certificate to Nairobi Governor Johnson Sakaja at the Nairobi Governor's Office on Wednesday, FSD Africa Chief Executive Officer Mark Naiper said they are keen to partner with other county governments.
The certification follows the conclusion of the United Nations Climate Conference in Dubai in 2023, which emphasised the pivotal role of cities, local governments, and mayors in combating climate change.
Naiper highlighted the importance of collaborating with county governments to develop sustainable projects in the built environment, involving various stakeholders such as government bodies, developers, construction industry representatives, and financiers.
Governor Sakaja said that Africa has the potential to lead the way in designing sustainable spaces to tackle future challenges, given the existing skills, incentives, and capabilities.
He further stressed the importance of cities and local governments in driving the conversation on climate change and shaping cities that reflect dignity and progress, aligning with the vision of Africa.
"This certification signifies leadership in climate action at the local government level and marks the initial step in Nairobi's implementation of its Climate Action plan, solidifying its status as the green capital of the world," said Sakaja.
Chairperson of the Africa Regional Network at World GBC and CEO of KGBS Nasra Nanda said the certification is not only a victory for Nairobi and other local governments but also for Kenya and Africa. She expressed KGBS's commitment to leveraging this milestone to advocate for green legislation.
