By Samson Wire
The County Government of Siaya has commenced the review of the Siaya County Climate Change Policy, 2020, to ensure that the county’s climate governance framework remains relevant, responsive, and fit for the challenges and opportunities of today.
Since 2020, Siaya County has strengthened its climate governance through the implementation of the Siaya County Climate Change Action Plan (2023–2028) and through its growing experience in locally led climate action.
The review is not simply about updating a policy document. It is an opportunity to examine how Siaya plans, finances, coordinates, and delivers climate action across the county.
The revised policy is expected to enhance the county’s capacity to build climate resilience, protect livelihoods and ecosystems, mobilize climate finance, integrate climate considerations into planning and budgeting, and empower communities to lead local climate solutions.
It will also promote climate-smart agriculture, water security for people and livestock, ecosystem restoration, green development, and inclusive climate action, ensuring that women, men, youth, and persons with disabilities are not left behind.
“We want this policy to be owned by the people of Siaya,” said Chief Officer Jared Abayo, who also served as the workshop coordinator.
Abayo said the review process will be participatory and evidence-based, providing opportunities for communities, county departments, national government agencies, the private sector, civil society, academia, and development partners to contribute to the process.
“This is a clarion call for a climate change policy that is practical, inclusive, financially credible, and accountable for results. We are calling on all stakeholders to help shape a climate-resilient Siaya together,” he said.
The revised policy will focus on empowering communities, protecting ecosystems, climate-proofing investments, and ensuring that everyone benefits from sustainable environmental and climate action.
The draft policy is expected to be prepared within 14 days, after which it will be subjected to public participation. Once approved through the relevant county processes, it will proceed to the County Assembly for debate and approval before being forwarded for the necessary executive assent and eventual operationalisation.
The review session was also attended by the County Director of Environment, Mr. Gabriel Oduong’, alongside representatives from various departments of the County Government of Siaya.