Members of County Assembly (MCAs) are the decision makers for funds allocated to the implementation of projects within the county. Therefore, strengthening their knowledge of climate-inclusive budgeting helps them to appreciate their role in advancing the implementation of climate-related policies in the county assemblies.
ActionAid International Kenya, through the Gender Responsive Alternatives for Adaptation to Climate Change project, organised a two-day workshop for Members of County Assembly (MCAs), their committees and County Executives Committee (CECs) members from Baringo County from 2nd to 3rd March 2023. The workshop sought to build their understanding of their role in responding to the climate challenge through better budgeting and formulating regulations that integrate climate change impact reduction for vulnerable communities.
The project facilitated an expert from the Ministry of Environment. Climate Change and Forestry who enlightened the MCAs on how their role can bring change in the community. “You (MCAs) hold a lot of influence in the assembly; I urge you to use that influence to lessen the burden of your communities as a result of climate change. In Baringo County, where you come from, prioritization of water harvesting is critical in reducing impacts of drought” Michael Okumu- Deputy Director, Climate Change Negotiations and Finance Climate Change Directorate, Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry
The workshop:
- Helped the leaders to understand the links between climate change and the budget process.
- Equipped the members with requisite skills to prepare and respond to climate shocks.
- Guided them in identifying climate change-related risks in the county and available opportunities to build adaptive communities.
- Enabled them to understand how climate change-related risks can affect public finance, including the effectiveness of sectoral investments.
- Enabled them to develop cost-benefit analysis to optimize sectoral budgeting under changing climate.
“The workshop has enabled us to understand climate related issues which previously was conflicting. We are now well equipped and can prioritize climate related policies that will help cushion our communities from the effects of climate change” stated a Member of the County Assembly from Baringo County
The Gender Responsive Alternatives for Adaptation to Climate Change project is funded by Australian Aid. The project aims to strengthen women’s capacity in resilience building, supporting women-led protection mechanisms, modeling community climate resilient livelihood systems and engaging duty at County and national government level.
Author: Ezra Kiriago (Communications Coordinator, ActionAid Kenya)