Women advocate for active participation in climate change solutions

Women from Homa Bay and Siaya Counties held a procession in Homa Bay Town to complain about adversity of climate change on Nov 18, 2024. [James Omoro, Standard]

A group of women in Nyanza is calling for greater inclusion in the fight against the adverse effects of climate change.

As COP 29 nears its conclusion in Baku, Azerbaijan, these women argue they disproportionately bear the brunt of environmental changes, particularly water shortages.

Representing Homa Bay and Siaya counties, they highlighted their critical role in managing water resources for households, a responsibility that has become increasingly difficult due to drought and scarcity.

During a demonstration convened by Women’s Empowerment Link in Homa Bay Town, the women urged Kenyan leaders attending COP 29 to prioritize addressing issues that directly impact them.

They further demanded that their voices be heard not only at the global conference but also by county and national governments.

Key concerns raised included the significant water shortage forcing women to walk long distances in search of water for domestic use. This issue has worsened as rivers, once reliable sources, have dried up due to climate change.

Doreen Otieno, a resident of Homa Bay Central Ward, emphasized that women are the most affected by the water crisis.

“We want women’s issues related to climate change included in the COP 29 discussions. County and national governments must also address these challenges. Access to clean water remains a major problem in many villages,” she said.

Otieno also highlighted the recurrent problem of floods during rainy seasons, which displace many people and cause additional issues such as the spread of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections in rescue camps.

“In the camps, people from different social backgrounds form relationships, which has led to the spread of HIV and STIs. Long-term solutions to flooding are necessary,” she added.

Gertrude Tala, Programmes Officer at Women’s Empowerment Link, echoed these sentiments, urging government agencies to focus on the challenges women face due to climate change.

“Climate change has subjected many women to immense suffering. Authorities must listen to our voices and address these problems,” Tala said.

She called on elected leaders to prioritize the needs of the electorate in creating and implementing climate-related policies.

Dina Awuor from Siaya County urged officials to stop sidelining women in climate change discussions, stressing that women have valuable contributions to offer.

“Women can provide practical solutions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. We appeal to the government to involve women in these conversations,” Awuor said.

Willis Omulo, Chairman of Aluora Makare CBO, called for effective communication strategies to disseminate information from COP 29 to all Kenyan citizens, especially those in rural areas.

“Many people in rural areas have no idea what is happening in Azerbaijan. The government must ensure that everyone is informed to foster inclusivity in the fight against climate change,” Omulo stated.