As the chairperson of the Environment and Climate Change Committee at the Council of Governors (CoG), Vihiga Governor Wilber Khasilwa Ottichillo continues to champion the spirit of collaboration.
He says it remains the cornerstone of effective environmental governance and meaningful climate action in Kenya.
Today, Governor Ottichillo held a consultative meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, Deborah Mlongo Barasa, to deliberate on key priorities in the sector.
Their discussions focused on strengthening policy and legal frameworks, enhancing sector financing, advancing carbon markets, reviewing progress on the 15 billion Tree Growing Initiative, and finalising the Intergovernmental Framework for Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change.
Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of strong coordination between national and county governments—particularly in critical areas such as waste management, environmental conservation, and building climate resilience.
They jointly committed to finalise the Intergovernmental Framework within one month.
To ensure this goal is met, they agreed to establish a technical committee that will convene monthly, while the Cabinet Secretary and Governor Ottichillo will meet quarterly to review progress and align on emerging priorities.
Governor Ottichillo reiterated his unwavering commitment to promoting collaborative leadership that drives sustainable development and secures a greener, climate-resilient future for all Kenyans.
By Rose Wasike
