IRISH AMBASSADOR LEADS DELEGATION TO WEST POKOT FOR CLIMATE ACTION AND PEACEBUILDING ENGAGEMENT

The Embassy of Ireland in Kenya, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) and International Alert, led by Ireland Ambassador to Kenya Her Excellency Caitríona Ingoldsby is in West Pokot for a field visit aimed at bolstering partnerships and engage in discussions centered on climate action and peacebuilding in the region.

One of the primary objectives of the visit was to conduct technical engagements on climate change and peacebuilding, with a specific focus on the Irish Aid-funded project titled 'Powering Peace through Climate Action' (PPCA). This project, implemented by International Alert, seeks to harness climate action as a catalyst for fostering dialogue and reconciliation among communities affected by conflict.

Together with Governor Simon Kachapin flanked with Deputy Governor Robert Komolle, they discussion centered on Ireland's priorities in Kenya, exploring avenues for collaboration in addressing pressing challenges such as climate change and conflict resolution in West Pokot.

The PPCA project has already yielded significant results in West Pokot, including the establishment and capacity enhancement of ward climate planning committees, the development of climate adaptation plans, and support for cross-county peace processes.

Additionally, the project has facilitated training sessions for government administrators on governance and climate security, further strengthening local capacity to address the intertwined issues of climate change and conflict.

Ambassador Ingoldsby expressed her appreciation for the progress made thus far and reaffirmed Ireland's steadfast support for initiatives that promote sustainable development and peacebuilding in Kenya. She emphasized the importance of continued collaboration between stakeholders at the local, national, and regional levels to tackle the complex challenges posed by climate change and conflict.

The delegation is expected to be in the county for the next two days engaging stakeholders and community.

The delegation comprised of key figures including Deputy Head of Mission Jill Clements and representatives from the climate unit of the MFA in Dublin, representatives from International Alert and officials from the county led by Water, Environment and Climate Change CEC William Petot.