Kenyan Treasury Disburses Sh7 Billion to 42 Counties to Boost Grassroots Climate Resilience
In a major step toward enhancing grassroots climate adaptation, the National Treasury has disbursed Sh6.97 billion to 42 counties across Kenya under the second tranche of the County Climate Resilience Investment (CCRI) grants. This funding, part of the broader Financing Locally-Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) programme, aims to empower counties to design and implement locally tailored climate action projects.
The initiative, funded through a collaboration between the Government of Kenya, the World Bank, and bilateral partners such as Germany, Sweden, Denmark, and the Netherlands, emphasizes localized ownership of climate solutions. These resources are meant to help counties mitigate climate change effects while creating economic opportunities for communities.
Only Performing Counties Funded
The disbursement followed an Annual Performance Assessment (APA), which evaluated the readiness and effectiveness of counties in managing climate funds. Counties like Nairobi and Mombasa failed to meet the required thresholds and were therefore excluded from this funding round. According to Treasury Cabinet Secretary John Mbadi, only counties with the capacity and governance structures to handle the funds were approved, ensuring accountability and impact.
Dr. Chris Kiptoo, Principal Secretary at the National Treasury, highlighted that the assessment strengthened transparency and performance, noting that the selected counties had shown sufficient institutional readiness to implement climate-related projects.
Real Impact on the Ground
Since its launch in 2022, FLLoCA has made notable progress. It has reached 1,137 out of 1,450 wards, accounting for 78.4% of its nationwide target. Over 500 community climate sub-projects have already been completed, while more than 550 others are in progress. These projects have directly impacted over 1.14 million Kenyans and generated 57,000 jobs, with a strong focus on inclusion of women, youth, and marginalized groups.
Some of the successful local initiatives include afforestation projects, water harvesting systems, installation of solar-powered irrigation, and climate-resilient agriculture training. The programme has also helped restore 27,600 hectares of degraded land, providing long-term environmental and economic benefits.
Counties Also Investing Their Own Resources
Counties participating in the programme have demonstrated commitment by establishing legal frameworks such as the County Climate Change Fund Acts, which have enabled them to raise an additional Sh7.94 billion in co-financing. This step aligns with the government’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which seeks to channel resources and power to the grassroots level.
These funds are not only creating infrastructure but are also helping build local capacity through training and technical assistance, ensuring long-term sustainability of climate efforts.
Looking Ahead
As the climate crisis deepens, this grassroots-focused approach is increasingly being recognized as a model for resilience planning. The FLLoCA programme aims to eventually reach all counties and wards in Kenya, expanding its footprint and impact.
The recent disbursement of Sh6.97 billion marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s climate finance journey, reinforcing the government’s commitment to inclusive, locally driven solutions in combating climate change. It is a clear indication that empowering local governments is key to building a climate-resilient future for all Kenyans.
