Kenya steps up fight against water scarcity, climate-induced conflicts

Kenya is intensifying efforts to confront the escalating threat of water scarcity and climate-induced conflicts, challenges increasingly felt across the Horn of Africa.

Internal Security and National Administration Principal Secretary Dr. Raymond Omollo has raised concern over the rising competition for water and grazing resources in vulnerable regions, warning that the trend poses a significant risk to Kenya’s development and that of other African nations.

He noted that water insecurity has evolved from being merely a development concern to a critical issue of peace and national stability requiring immediate and coordinated intervention. “The water insecurity is a concern and require urgent action,” Dr. Omollo noted.

Speaking during the opening of the International Conference on Water, Peace and Security in Nairobi, Dr. Omollo outlined several government interventions aimed at transforming water from a source of conflict into a tool for cooperation.

These include the National Climate Change Security Response Programme, the monthly Chiefs’ Climate Action Day, conflict-sensitive natural resource management, strengthened community-based early warning systems, and enhanced cross-border water diplomacy with neighbouring countries.

The PS underscored that fostering peace around shared natural resources demands collaboration across all levels — from grassroots communities to regional and continental partnerships.

The high-level conference brought together global and regional leaders, including Ghana’s President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Amb. Fred Gateretse-Ngoga from the African Union Commission, Outi Holopainen from Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Madiodio Niasse from the Dakar Water Hub in Senegal.

Together, the leaders called for innovative water governance, stronger early warning systems, and deeper cross-border cooperation to promote lasting peace in regions grappling with climate-related shocks. “Water can divide, but with the right approach, it can also unite,” Dr. Omollo added.

The conference reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to turning climate challenges into opportunities for peace and prosperity.