EAC Cabinet Secretary Askul vows to mitigate effects of climate change in Asal regions

Beatrice Askul Moe the New Cabinet Secretary for East Africa Community and Regional Development takes Oath of Office. [PCS]

EAC, Asal and Regional Development Cabinet Secretary Beatrice Askul has promised to prioritise mitigation of effects of climate change in Asal regions, promoting peaceful coexistence among communities and improving food and nutrition security.

Speaking in Nairobi on Wednesday during the official handover of the ministry by the outgoing Cabinet Secretary, Peninah Malonza, Askul said that she will engage in initiatives that foster dialogue among the communities to promote peaceful coexistence.

"Asal regions are on the forefront of climate vulnerability and we must implement sustainable practices and policies that protect our environment and secure the livelihoods of those that depend on it," said Askul.

She said this will ensure that every Kenyan lives in a secure environment.

"We shall commit to improving food and nutrition security. In a world where access is sufficient, safe, nutritious food is a fundamental right. We must ensure that our agricultural practices are resilient to our food system and robust. We will work to enhance food production, distribution, and accessibility, particularly in our Asal region, to guarantee that no Kenyan goes to bed hungry," said Askul.

The CS said that she will leverage on the existing bilateral and multilateral strategies to promote Kenya’s interests.

"To increase intra-EAC trade, address trade bottlenecks, deepen integration and champion conclusion of the various reforms that are ongoing that aim to make EAC more responsive to our needs, we will always work together with other EAC partner states to sustain regional initiatives that promote peace and secure our region," said Askul.

Malonza reflected on her experience at the Tourism and EAC dockets.

"When I got into the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Heritage, it was at a time when we were experiencing the longest drought in this country," she said.

"I am very proud to have also joined the EAC ministry at what we may call it a bad time because again, it was a disaster when we were experiencing El Nino in this country. And I'm proud that I led a ministry that had been mandated with such an agenda at such a time," she said.