Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary (PS) Dr. Eng Festus Ng’eno has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to advancing innovative, inclusive, and sustainable climate solutions that go beyond market-based mechanisms, leveraging non-market approaches to accelerate climate action and socio-economic transformation.
Appearing before the National Assembly Departmental Committee on Delegated Legislation, chaired by Githinji Robert Gichimu, to deliberate on the regulations under the Climate Change Act, 2026 (Non-Market Approaches), Dr. Ng’eno outlined that the Regulations, developed under the Climate Change Act, seek to operationalize Kenya’s participation in non-market approaches as envisioned under Paris Agreement Article 6.8.
He noted that the framework is designed to align national climate action with international obligations while fostering voluntary cooperation between countries to advance sustainable development and climate resilience.
Further, Dr. Ng’eno emphasized that the Regulations provide a structured framework for the design, implementation, and coordination of non-market approaches that directly support Kenya’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).
The PS highlighted that the framework promotes inclusivity by encouraging participation from the public sector, private sector, civil society, and local communities in climate action initiatives.
“All non-market approach projects will be required to uphold human rights, ensure gender equity, and safeguard the interests of marginalized groups, including youth, children, and persons with disabilities,” Dr. Ng’eno informed the Committee.
Additionally, he stressed that strict adherence to environmental safeguards such as environmental impact assessments, public participation, and the principle of free, prior, and informed consent—especially where community land is involved—will be mandatory.
To enhance coordination and transparency according to the PS, the Regulations provide for the establishment of a National Non-Market Approaches Platform. The digital platform will serve as a central repository for submission, tracking, and dissemination of information on climate projects, including their objectives, financing, implementation areas, and beneficiaries. It will also facilitate collaboration and knowledge-sharing among stakeholders.
Dr. Ng’eno further explained that project proponents will be guided by a clearly defined list of priority interventions, including climate-smart agriculture, ecosystem restoration, sustainable waste management, renewable energy development, and climate-resilient infrastructure.
“These interventions are aligned with national climate priorities and will be implemented through the National Climate Change Action Plan,” he announced.
On governance, the PS noted that project proposals will undergo a rigorous review process by the Directorate, supported by an ad hoc multi-stakeholder committee comprising representatives from national and county governments, civil society, and research institutions.
The review process, he reported, will ensure that all projects align with national priorities, promote sustainable development, and integrate transparency and accountability mechanisms.
Equally, Dr. Ng’eno added that approved projects may also qualify for international recognition and support under Article 6.8 of the Paris Agreement, particularly where they demonstrate potential to enhance mitigation and adaptation outcomes, mobilize international finance and technology, and strengthen multi-stakeholder participation.
The Committee also heard that project proponents will be required to submit annual progress reports detailing implementation status, financial performance, environmental and social safeguards, and overall contribution to national climate goals.
This, the PS said, will inform the Cabinet Secretary’s annual report to Parliament and strengthen oversight and accountability.
In addressing dispute resolution, Dr. Ng’eno noted that any disputes arising from the implementation of the Regulations will be handled in accordance with the provisions of the Climate Change Act.
By Michael Omondi
