Nairobi, Kenya - The Kenyan government, in collaboration with the UN Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), is developing a strategy to ensure the sustainability of its tea and coffee sectors in the face of climate change. This initiative aims to harmonize trade and environmental objectives, creating a climate-resilient and environmentally sustainable trade system for these crucial sectors.

Addressing Climate Challenges

Director for External Trade at the State Department for Trade, Joseah Rotich, emphasized the urgent need for climate change adaptation strategies within the tea and coffee sectors, particularly in light of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He highlighted that these sectors, which contribute significantly to Kenya's economy and support millions of livelihoods, are highly vulnerable to climate change impacts like erratic weather patterns.

A Green Supplement to the AfCFTA Strategy

The strategy, a "Green Supplement" to Kenya's National AfCFTA Strategy and Action Plan, aims to guide the country in harnessing green intra-African trade opportunities and adapting to climate change. A recent validation workshop brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including government, industry, and civil society, to discuss and refine the draft strategy.

ECA's Commitment to Sustainable Trade

Dr. Souleymane Abdallah, an Economic Affairs Officer at ECA, reiterated the commission's commitment to integrating green and climate change policies into AfCFTA implementation strategies for member states. He emphasized the importance of building green value chains under the AfCFTA to ensure sustainable trade and industrial growth for Kenya.

Addressing Climate Change Impacts

Dr. Abdallah highlighted that climate change is already impacting the region, affecting agriculture, hydropower, and livelihoods. He emphasized the need for all policies and actions, including trade and industrial policies, to incorporate a sustainability dimension to address the impacts of climate change and capitalize on the opportunities presented by a green economy transition.

Moving Forward

The Kenyan government, with the support of ECA and other international partners, is actively working to develop and implement strategies that will ensure the long-term sustainability of its tea and coffee sectors while contributing to a greener and more resilient future for the African continent.