The Kenya Climate Innovation Centre (KCIC) and African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) have signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) towards targeted climate change interventions in Kenya and Africa at large. The interventions will include thematic areas such as environmental conservation and sustainability, biodiversity conservation, community empowerment, outreach and training on enterprises, gender equality and equity, as well as the empowerment of women and PWDs.
The partnership between the two organizations will take the form of sharing of experiences and knowledge gathered so far, a technical cooperation in developing start-up support eco-system for conservation-relevant businesses, capacity building and institutional support, joint resource mobilisation efforts to support areas of collaboration, as well as cooperation in policy and advocacy activities.
The strategic collaboration is in response to the critical need to address climate change and protect wildlife habitats. Both organizations recognize the urgency of these issues and are committed to driving innovative solutions. By pooling their strengths and knowledge, KCIC and AWF will work collaboratively to address the environmental challenges that threaten our ecosystems and biodiversity.
The two organizations will also identify and support climate entrepreneurs by providing them with crucial resources, such as mentorship, funding, and technical assistance. This support will enable entrepreneurs to develop and scale their climate innovations, ultimately contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of sustainable practices.
Habitat conservation is another vital aspect of this partnership, with the two organizations envisioning a hand in hand synergy to protect and restore threatened habitats. This will involve implementing conservation projects, conducting biodiversity research, promoting sustainable land use practices, and engaging local communities in conservation efforts. By preserving wildlife habitats, the partnership aims to safeguard biodiversity and maintain ecological balance, with a long-term goal of ensuring the survival of Africa’s iconic species.
In addition to climate action and habitat conservation, Kenya Climate Innovation Centre and Africa Wildlife Foundation will jointly promote environmental sustainability. Through advocacy for the adoption of clean technologies, renewable energy solutions, sustainable agriculture practices, and circular economy initiatives. By encouraging the adoption of these practices, the organizations aim to reduce the environmental footprint and create a more sustainable and resilient future for generations to come.
According to KCIC Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Joseph Murabula, the partnership represents a significant step towards achieving a greener and more sustainable future. He also welcomed the involvement of other stakeholders in the initiative, citing the need for collective action in addressing environmental challenges.
“We are thrilled to embark on this transformative journey with AWF as we join forces to accelerate our shared vision for a better planet. I believe that together, we can make a profound difference in the fight against climate change and the conservation of our natural heritage,” said Mr. Murabula.
The Memorandum of Understanding was signed on Tuesday May 16, 2023, at the African Wildlife Foundation headquarters in Nairobi. In attendance were AWF’s Country Director, Nancy Githaiga, Senior Vice President, Charly Facheux, Enos Omondi, Senior Manager (Knowledge management) and Philip Muruthi; Vice president (Species Conservation and Science). KCIC delegation was led by the CEO, Mr. Joseph Murabula, Benjamin Barwa; Program manager, GreenBiz, and Jabez Mutune; Program manager, AgriBiz. This strategic collaboration brings together the expertise, resources, and shared passion of two leading organizations, aiming to create a more sustainable future for Kenya and the African continent.
