Lubao FM News 
President Uhuru Kenyatta has been named global champion on climate change.
Kenyatta was inaugurated by the Africa Adaptation Accelration Program (AAAP)
AAAP is an initiative of the African Deveopment Bank (AFDB) and Global Center of Adaptation (GCA).
The institutions aim to raise Sh3 trillion for investment in Africa’s climate adaptation initiatives.
The President was, at the event held at the University of Nairobi’s Taifa Hall in Nairobi City County, also feted by GCA for his leading role in advocacy and resource mobilization for climate change adaptation in Africa and globally.
The recognition was given to the Head of State by GCA CEO Patrick van Verkooijen who commended President Kenyatta for his sterling efforts in tackling the climate change challenge.
In his acceptance speech, President Kenyatta noted that most of the socio-economic challenges facing Africa are attributable to climate change and pledged his full commitment to advancing the continent’s adaptation agenda.
The President noted that the Horn of Africa was facing its worst drought in over 40 years as a direct consequence of climate change.
He said climate induced extreme weather conditions including devastating floods in Southern Africa and Southern Sudan, will retard Africa’s progress.
The Head of State said the situation is likely to have negative impacts on generations to come as children face malnutrition due to food insecurity, which in turn undermines their health and productivity.
Once again, the President urged developed nations to fulfill their financial pledges towards Africa’s adaptation agenda.
He said AAAP is a bold and creative platform that lays a broad and firm foundation for economic growth while at the same time containing the impact of climate shocks.
Environment CS Keriako Tobiko said through President Kenyatta’s efforts the country had grown its forest cover to 12.3 pc forest cover.
Other speakers at the propitious event through pre-recorded messages were former UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon, IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva, WTO Director General Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and African Development Bank AfDB President Dr Akinwumi Ayodeji Adesina.
