Wajir Conference Addresses Climate Resilience and Gender Empowerment
Wajir – A stakeholder conference focusing on environmental consciousness and gender empowerment took place in Wajir on Saturday. The collaborative effort between the county Department of Environment, Climate Change, and the Raia Development Initiative explored strategies to empower women and youth with crucial climate knowledge and skills.
The objective of the forum was to mitigate violence against women through climate-sensitive interventions and establish sustainable community practices for enhanced climate resilience.
Mrs. Saadia Ahmed, County Executive Committee Member for Land Management, Urban Development, Environment, and Climate Change, highlighted the significance of the sensitization forum in addressing climate-related challenges and solutions.
“The emphasis on women and youth highlights our commitment to inclusivity and gender-sensitive approaches in environmental initiatives,” she affirmed.
The forum drew attendance from key figures such as Chief Executive Committee Member for Special Programmes, Mrs. Farhiya Abdille, Chief Officer Environment and Climate Change, Mr. R Rahow Hussein, Director Environment, County Officers, women leaders, and the Gender Technical Working Group.
“The diverse representation showcases our collaborative spirit, recognizing the importance of multiple perspectives in addressing climate issues,” Saadia emphasized.
Supported by the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office (FCDO), the conference plays a pivotal role in strengthening climate sensitization initiatives.
Wajir County: Battling Climate Challenges in the Face of Vulnerability
Wajir County, situated in the northern part of Kenya, grapples with arid and semi-arid conditions, heightening its susceptibility to climate-related disasters such as droughts and floods.
The majority of Wajir’s population relies on agro-pastoral livelihoods, profoundly impacted by these recurring hazards, leading to property loss and heightened poverty levels.
As climate change intensifies, the vulnerability of the community escalates, hindering their ability to recover, even from minor disasters.