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Preserving heritage, nurturing progress, raising social equity: Policy advice on how indigenous peoples can advance sustainable agriculture in Kenya

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What’s new?

Ahead of the climate summit COP28 in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates' presidency of the summit declared food systems and agriculture as vital for climate-resilient development. Furthermore, the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) underlined in a pre-COP28 report that the people most affected by climate impacts should contribute to crafting solutions. The UNFCCC emphasises that inclusion and equity can increase ambition in relation to climate action.

Why is it important?

Kenya’s indigenous peoples are among those most affected by climate impacts. They have much to offer when it comes to building climate-resilient food and agricultural systems. With knowledge attuned to the specific ecosystems of their territories, many among the indigenous peoples are uniquely positioned to play a leading role in climate adaptation. Empowering indigenous peoples can help ensure climate-resilient food systems and agriculture, reflecting a whole-of-society approach based on inclusion and equity.

What should be done and by whom?

The Kenyan government recognises the knowledge systems of indigenous peoples as a resource and opportunity in climate adaptation. The government should prioritise and commit greater resources to empowering indigenous peoples to participate meaningfully in locally driven initiatives, such as the Financing Locally-Led Climate Action programme, a Kenyan model of devolved climate finance. It should also strengthen indigenous peoples' rights and capacity by building partnerships with national and county government agencies, the private sector and non-governmental organisation