Parliamentary Caucus on Climate Action Commends Egerton University Legal Aid Conference on Climate Change and Environmental Justice
The Faculty of Law National Legal Aid Conference centered on climate change and environmental justice, bringing together notable figures from the legal, academic, and policy spheres was held at Simba Lodge, Naivasha. 
Senator Catherine Mumma, representing Senator Kajwang, addresses attendees at the Faculty of Law National Legal Aid Conference, emphasizing the role of legislative support in advancing climate justice and environmental protection on October 23, 2024. Photo Credit: Kurian Musa/Egerton University.
The three days’ conference, a platform for vital discussions on the pressing realities of climate change, was graced by key leaders, including Egerton University Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Kibwage, UNEP’s Director of the Law Division Prof. Patricia Kameri-Mbote, and Justice Oscar Angote, Principal Judge of the Land and Environment Court.
Speaking at the conference, Prof. Kibwage observed: “It is my pleasure to engage in this topic of climate change. Growing up in the village as a small boy, there were several streams of rivers where we could take bath, and fetch water for domestic use. Nowadays, I don’t see them. They have dried up. Beyond laws and policies, it is our ethics, beliefs, and everyday choices that shape the future of our environment. At Egerton University, we are committed to fostering a culture of sustainability, where our values guide us toward climate action and environmental stewardship," he remarked.
Also in attendance were Dr. Ruth Aura-Odhiambo, Dean of the Faculty of Law at Egerton University, Prof. Nzula Kitaka, Director Marketing and Resource Mobilization and Freasier Gathumbi, Acting CEO of the National Legal Aid Services. Together, these distinguished guests underscored the need for collaborative efforts across all sectors to address the growing climate crisis and its disproportionate impact on vulnerable communities.
Contributing to the plenary discussions, Prof. Kitaka emphasized the urgent need for Kenya to craft a Wetlands Act, a law that will address the ongoing challenges in protecting our precious wetlands. Despite the involvement of several actors and government bodies, she pointed out that none have taken full ownership of safeguarding these vital ecosystems. Furthermore, communities also lack a sense of ownership over wetlands, making protection efforts even more difficult.
Speaking on behalf of the Senate Caucus on Climate Change, Sen. Moses O. Kajwang’, the Caucus Convener and Senator Catherine Muma, delivered a keynote speech that called for transformative climate action. He highlighted the crucial role of legislators in shaping and monitoring policies that would drive sustainable solutions, ensuring that commitments under the Paris Agreement are translated into tangible benefits for communities facing climate challenges.
“The realities of climate change are with us now, from food insecurity to displacement and the loss of livelihoods for millions,” remarked Sen. Kajwang'. He emphasized that climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities, from Turkana’s arid lands to Kenya’s coastal regions, calling for action to protect the marginalized and ensure a sustainable future for all.
Prof. Isaac Kibwage, Vice Chancellor of Egerton University, officially opens the Faculty of Law National Legal Aid Conference, emphasizing the university's commitment to addressing climate change and its legal implications. Date: October 23, 2024. Photo Credit: Kurian Musa/Egerton University.
In his speech, Sen. Kajwang’ introduced two major initiatives spearheaded by the Africa Network of Parliamentarians for Climate Change. First, she spoke about the Monitoring and Accountability Tool designed to help legislators track the implementation of climate policies, ensuring transparency and effective use of climate-related expenditures. The tool incorporates AI-powered analytics and real-time data tracking, enabling evidence-based governance that ensures governments deliver on their climate goals.
Additionally, Sen. Kajwangs’ presentation delved on a Model Climate Law, which offers a comprehensive legislative framework based on global best practices. This model law addresses carbon mitigation, climate financing, and adaptation strategies, and ensures public participation and climate justice, particularly for marginalized communities. “We must ensure our climate actions are inclusive, just, and focused on protecting those most vulnerable,” he urged.
The Senator also said a Parliamentary Training Curriculum on Climate Change has been introduced, a resource designed to equip legislators with the knowledge and skills needed to effectively engage in climate action. The curriculum covers climate science, international frameworks, and the socio-economic impacts of climate change, enabling parliamentarians to make informed decisions.
Acknowledging the role of research and academic institutions in tackling climate change, Sen. Kajwang’ commended Egerton University’s Faculty of Law for organizing the conference. “We welcome research and collaboration between universities, researchers, and policymakers as a critical component of this journey,” he noted, encouraging further research partnerships to generate knowledge and innovative solutions.
Prof. Nzula Kitaka addresses attendees at the Faculty of Law Conference held at Simba Lodge, Naivasha, on October 23, 2024, emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive reforms in Kenya's wetland protection laws. She highlights the critical role of effective land tenure systems and community engagement in safeguarding these vital ecosystems amid environmental changes. Photo credit: Kurian Musa/Egerton University.
The Senator concluded with a call to action for deeper collaboration across sectors and nations. “Let us build strong partnerships—across sectors, across nations, and across disciplines—so that we can leave behind a world that is greener, safer, and more just for all,” he said. He announced plans for a validation workshop to engage parliamentarians in using the newly developed frameworks and tools, inviting contributions from researchers and innovators to enhance their effectiveness.
This groundbreaking conference at Egerton University reflects the rising urgency of addressing climate change and the growing recognition that sustainable, evidence-based policies, supported by strong legislative action, are essential in ensuring environmental and social justice.
By Kurian Musa
Communications Officer,
Directorate of Marketing and Resource Mobilization,
Egerton University
