Kenya has unveiled two major policy frameworks aimed at strengthening climate-resilient health systems and safeguarding vulnerable communities across the country. The Kenya Climate Change and Health Strategy (2024–2029) and the Kenya Household Air Pollution Prevention Strategy (2024–2029) were launched on October 21, 2025, by Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale during the Pan-African Conference on Environment, Climate Change and Health in Nairobi. The launch positions Kenya as a continental leader in integrating climate action into health and development planning.
The conference brought together policymakers, scientists, and development partners from across Africa under the theme Harnessing Science, Policy and Partnerships for Environmental Sustainability and Climate Health Resilience. Participants adopted the Nairobi Living Declaration, symbolizing Africa’s commitment to coordinated climate-health action, and formally handed Kenya the ceremonial baton of stewardship for advancing the continent’s climate-health agenda. Hon. Duale emphasized that climate change is a major threat to health and a barrier to achieving Universal Health Coverage, urging nations to integrate environmental sustainability, climate resilience, and health policies.
The initiatives are designed to enhance primary prevention, health preparedness, and policy readiness while reducing emissions and strengthening community adaptation to climate impacts. The conference also emphasized fair financing, equitable technology transfer, and enhanced local research capacity. Key attendees included Dr. Patrick Amoth, Director-General for Health; Dr. Abdulahi Ali, KEMRI Board Chairperson; Mr. Mamo Mamo, Director-General of NEMA; and Dr. Alan Dangour, UK Director of Climate and Health, alongside regional and international delegates. These strategies aim to build a green, inclusive, and climate-resilient health system that can serve as a model for Africa.