Floods in Garisa county, Kenya

Kenya is facing an escalating climate crisis that threatens its economy and environmental aspirations on the global stage. According to economists and climate experts, the country is losing an estimated KSh 870 billion annually, equivalent to 3–5% of its GDP—due to climate-related disasters such as droughts, floods, and crop failure. If the trend continues, cumulative losses could reach KSh 15 trillion in the next 15 years.

This dire projection casts a shadow over President William Ruto’s climate agenda, which includes the ambitious goal of planting 15 billion trees by 2032 and positioning Kenya as a global environmental leader. Yet, experts argue that tree planting alone is not enough—especially without robust systems to monitor survival rates and foster long-term ecological stewardship.

During the launch of the Institute for Sustainability and Climate Action at the International Leadership University, veteran environmentalist Dr. Kalua Green issued a clarion call to Kenya’s academic institutions: lead the charge in climate resilience.

“Although Africa contributes less than 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions, we are among the most affected by climate impacts,” Kalua said. “Kenya needs a new generation of leaders equipped to innovate, adapt, and champion sustainable development.”

Kalua challenged universities to mainstream climate education by offering short courses, degrees, and research opportunities focused on sustainability. He emphasized the importance of building coalitions between academia, communities, and faith-based organizations to cultivate a generation of informed, action-oriented environmental stewards.

“Africa is not a passive player in this story—we must lead,” he said. “Our institutions should produce scientists, theologians, and policy architects who view environmental responsibility as a moral and civic duty.”

The newly launched Institute will operate on four foundational pillars: education, research, policy advocacy, and community engagement. Its mission is to nurture transformative leadership that can influence climate action from the grassroots to policy level, reinforcing Kenya’s resilience and Africa’s environmental sovereignty.

As climate pressures intensify, the need for African-led, locally grounded solutions has never been more urgent. The academic sector’s involvement could be the missing link in turning Kenya’s climate challenge into an opportunity for innovation and renewal.