Republished with full copyright permissions from The Boston News Tribune.

On 6th and 7th November, we see Climate Action Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra embarking on a crucial visit to Kenya. This trip serves as an integral stepping stone in the lead up to the COP28 UN Climate Change Conference, scheduled for 30th November to 12th December. Commissioner Hoekstra recognizes Kenya’s vital role as a key partner in the African continent, propelling efforts towards a successful outcome at COP28. Following his engagements in Kenya, the Commissioner will continue his journey to Zambia later this week.

Engagements in Kenya:

Day 1 – Meeting with Key Stakeholders:
Today in Kenya, Commissioner Hoekstra’s agenda is packed with strategic meetings focusing on strengthening alliances and exchanging insights. The day begins with bilateral discussions with President William Ruto, laying the foundation for enhanced cooperation between the European Union and Kenya. Subsequently, the Commissioner is set to meet with the Minister of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Soipan Tuya, along with the Minister of Finance and Cabinet Secretary, National Treasury and Economic Planning, Njuguna Ndung’u. These interactions offer an opportunity to align policies and initiatives concerning climate action.

Additionally, Commissioner Hoekstra will engage with influential representatives from civil society and the policy community throughout the day. These engagements aim to foster open dialogue, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in the climate action agenda. Recognizing the significance of collaboration, the Commissioner seeks to harness the collective expertise to drive lasting change.

Day 2 – Empowering Regional Capacity and Addressing the Youth:
Tomorrow, the Commissioner’s activities focus on visiting an EU-funded project centered on enhancing weather monitoring, analysis, and communication in the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) region of Eastern Africa. In collaboration with the World Meteorological Organization, this initiative aims to bolster regional capabilities in understanding and predicting weather patterns. By supporting such advancements, the Commissioner showcases the EU’s commitment to fostering climate resilience and adaptation efforts.

Moreover, Commissioner Hoekstra honors the importance of engaging the younger generation by delivering a speech at the University of Nairobi. Addressing students, he shares the EU’s priorities and provides insights into the global climate action agenda. By empowering and educating the youth, the Commissioner strives to inspire future leaders in championing sustainable practices and innovative climate solutions.

Commissioner Wopke Hoekstra’s visit to Kenya serves as a significant milestone in advancing climate action in preparation for the upcoming COP28 UN Climate Change Conference. Through strategic meetings with key stakeholders, including President William Ruto and government ministers, the Commissioner aims to strengthen partnerships and align priorities. Simultaneously, the initiatives supporting weather pattern monitoring and engagement with the youth demonstrate the EU’s commitment to empowering regional capacity and driving sustainable change. Kenya’s role as a key partner in the African continent reinforces the importance of collaboration in achieving global climate goals. Together, let us build momentum and forge a path towards a more prosperous and sustainable future.