Patmoz
By Njeri Irungu
Kakamega, Kenya – July 10, 2025
Kakamega County is gearing up to host the inaugural Lake Region Climate Change and Agricultural Expo, a high-level regional gathering set to take place from October 7th to 10th at the Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST).
Governor Fernandes Barasa made the announcement during a breakfast meeting held today with key stakeholders, development partners, and potential sponsors, where the county launched a KSh 200 million resource mobilization drive to support the regional event.
“This breakfast meeting was organized to bring together our partners, align our goals, and mobilize resources for a successful Climate Change and Agri-Expo,” said Governor Barasa. “As a county, we are honored to host this event which will bring together climate stakeholders from across the region to deliberate on innovative, sustainable, and inclusive solutions to climate challenges.”
The event will spotlight climate-smart agriculture, forest conservation, post-harvest management, water resource solutions, and youth employment opportunities through the green economy.
Barasa emphasized the importance of collaboration between county governments, the national government, and non-state actors in tackling the climate crisis, noting that Kakamega County is home to the country’s only surviving tropical rainforest – the Kakamega Forest.
“This Expo gives us an opportunity to rally environmentalists and conservationists to support initiatives like reforestation and the production of indigenous tree seedlings. The Kakamega Forest, which covers approximately 117 square kilometers, needs urgent rehabilitation. The project budget exceeds KSh 500 million, but so far, we have raised only KSh 29 million,” he revealed.
Also speaking at the event was Dr. Pamela Sitienei, Chairperson of the Masinde Muliro University Council, who welcomed the opportunity for the institution to be the host venue.
“As a university, we are at the center of educating the next generation about climate change, including the complex and often misunderstood topic of carbon credits. This Expo presents an opportunity to demystify climate finance, create awareness, and open up pathways for green jobs,” Dr. Sitienei said.
She further noted the importance of building a climate-literate generation that can not only respond to the current crisis but also drive solutions such as carbon trading and sustainable land use practices.
Among the key goals of the Expo will be generating financing for climate action, showcasing innovation in agriculture and environmental management, and amplifying regional voices in the global climate conversation.
The Kakamega County Government has issued a call to action for both public and private stakeholders to support the initiative through financial backing, technical expertise, and active participation in October’s event.
