AGP Executive Report

Rain and Flood Risks: Kenya’s Met says the rains have begun across several counties and warns of strong winds in the north. A storm in Kisumu on Thursday toppled trees, damaged buildings and vehicles, and cut power lines. El Niño Readiness: The Coast Guard has opened a 24-hour response centre in Mombasa and positioned rescue boats and equipment in flood-prone coastal areas ahead of the expected rains. Drought Relief: China has provided Kenya with a $2 million grant, half of it for drought response and half for Ebola preparedness. Carbon Safeguards: Kenya is tightening carbon-market rules to protect climate goals and communities, as Indigenous herders pursue a lawsuit over a carbon project.

Plastic Enforcement: NEMA arrested five people, including a factory owner, after seizing 90,685 banned plastic bags in Nairobi. Forest Protection: KFS is seeking public input on a proposed airstrip at Londiani Forest Station in the Mau complex, as concerns grow over forest development and deforestation. Water Security: A new industry report says water losses exceed 50% at some of Kenya’s largest utilities, highlighting the need to fix leaks and metering gaps. Climate Resilience: East African officials and Ireland called for adaptation led and resourced by local communities, as forecasts warn of a strong El Niño and heightened weather risks through early 2027. Coastal Restoration: Youth-led groups have restored more than 15 hectares of mangroves in Kwale, helping protect the coast and support fishing communities.

Clean Energy: A new study says Kenya’s renewable-energy industry is held back by stop-start procurement and weak local-content enforcement, limiting investment and decent job creation. Unilever, meanwhile, has installed solar at its Nairobi factory, expecting to meet 30% of its power needs and cut emissions. Water & Pollution: Lake Victoria stakeholders are urging coordinated action on pollution, warning that waste from rivers and tributaries flows into the lake. Wildlife & Forests: Samburu warriors who once killed lions to protect livestock are now helping communities coexist with them. Forest defenders have also protested Kenya’s deforestation crisis, while conservationists plan a 92,000-tree planting drive for Mazingira Day. Climate Readiness: Kenya has activated its national response plan ahead of forecast El Niño rains, as counties prepare for possible flooding and crop losses. Environmental Accountability: A court halted quarrying in Kedong after residents reported dust and blasting near homes and a school; Kenya has also tightened carbon-market rules, while Indigenous herders are suing over a carbon project.

Carbon Markets: Kenya has launched new rules to steer carbon investments toward genuine climate benefits while protecting communities, ecosystems and national targets. El Niño Readiness: The government plans to harvest more than 100 million cubic metres of rainwater ahead of expected heavy rains; Maersk warns flooding could disrupt East African ports and transport routes. Climate and Girls: A study spanning more than 50 countries, including interviews in Kenya, links climate shocks to greater risks of early marriage, unintended pregnancy and violence against girls. Clean Energy: Unilever’s Nairobi factory has installed a solar system expected to supply 30% of its electricity and help cut emissions. Forests and Wildlife: Forest defenders have protested Kenya’s deforestation crisis, while wildlife officers are pursuing suspected poachers after an ambush.

Carbon Markets: Kenya launched a “Guide for Strategic Engagement in Carbon Markets 2026” to attract high-integrity climate investment while safeguarding communities, ecosystems and national targets. Climate & Food Waste: A new push highlights how rotting food boosts warming via methane, urging faster action to cut organic waste and divert it from landfills. El Niño Readiness: Garissa pre-positioned 20,000+ food bags and 19,000 livestock pellets ahead of possible flooding and disruption linked to El Niño rains. Forests Under Pressure: Civil society and forest defenders marched in Nairobi demanding stronger protection as Kenya’s forest cover remains below the 10% target, with calls to halt projects in key forests. Water & Irrigation Finance: Kenya is seeking private funding for 61% of its Sh598bn irrigation plan to expand irrigated acreage and strengthen climate-resilient food production. Ebola Watch: Nairobi Hospital escalated infection-control after confirming Kenya’s first imported Ebola case, with staff monitoring and contact tracing underway. Wildlife & Conservation Funding: A report warns that the dismantling of USAID has stalled or collapsed conservation and climate adaptation work in countries including Kenya. Solar Investment: Orb Energy secured $2m to expand East Africa commercial and industrial solar, with operations headquartered in Nairobi.

Wildlife protection: Kenya Wildlife Service launched a manhunt after suspected poachers fled an ambush in Tana River, abandoning a motorbike loaded with wildlife meat; rangers seized dik-dik and impala carcasses and other bush meat. Conservation & rights: Indigenous herders in Biliqo Bulesa filed a lawsuit challenging a carbon credit project run by Northern Rangelands Trust, alleging fake consent and opaque control of funds. Forests & climate action: Homa Bay county aims to plant 92,000 trees in one hour at Lambwe Forest Station during Mazingira Day, as part of a national tree-planting push. Green industry: Kenya Flower Council and a pest-control stewardship group signed an MoU to tackle pesticide container waste through collection centres, licensed treatment and extended producer responsibility. Built environment: Kenya is pushing climate-resilient construction, launching a repository to spotlight green building projects, products and financing opportunities. Energy & jobs: Afreximbank congratulated Kenya’s Lamu Dangote refinery breakthrough, citing expanded refining capacity, regional energy security and job creation. Weather watch: Met reports rainfall as October short rains begin, with forecasts pointing to wet conditions in parts of the country.

Carbon Markets & Rights: Dozens of Indigenous herders from Biliqo Bulesa have filed a lawsuit against Northern Rangelands Trust over a carbon credit project, alleging land is commercialised without real consent and demanding transparency and control of funds. Wildlife & Conservation: A new push to protect Kenya’s biodiversity is highlighted by a story on a Nairobi-based lepidopterist seeking a permanent home for a vast butterfly collection, as pinned specimens fade and enthusiasts shift toward photography. Climate & Disasters: Kenya Meteorological Department forecasts October short rains with light to moderate rainfall across many counties, warning of flash-flood risks from storms. Urban Heat: A study flags extreme heat as a growing threat in Mombasa, especially for informal settlements, with calls for community-led heat resilience planning and better local data. Modern Slavery & Climate Links: Kenya reaffirmed efforts to end forced labour and modern slavery, noting climate change and migration are reshaping exploitation risks. Energy Transition: Kenya’s energy transition debate turns to “last-mile” financing—how to crowd in private capital for clean power and climate-resilient growth. Health & Compliance: SHA rules will bar unlicensed facilities from contracting for services, tightening safeguards for patients. El Niño Preparedness: Media coverage is praised for moving from forecasts to preparedness, but urged to keep reporting with accountability as rains start.

Food Security & Climate Impacts: Kenya’s food prices are rising as climate change strains supply chains, pushing households in Nairobi and beyond to cut meals and groceries, with El Niño expected to worsen the squeeze. Water Governance: A new global framing warns that “water bankruptcy” is spreading—when water systems keep spending more than they earn and can’t bounce back—shifting the debate from short-term “crises” to deeper system fixes. Climate Reporting & Community Solutions: Journalists in Nairobi were urged to listen to communities first, so climate coverage reflects lived realities and practical responses, not just headlines. Digital Rights & Citizen Trust: ICT CS William Kabogo called for people-centred tech that protects privacy and rights, warning that AI and data misuse can erode public trust. Tourism Growth, Infrastructure Gaps: Kenya’s tourism is growing, but officials say the country is still “punching below its weight” due to infrastructure and earnings challenges. Biodiversity & Wildlife: Princess Takamado returned to Kenya to spotlight migratory birds and biodiversity, linking conservation to international cooperation. Governance & Investment Climate: A World Bank diagnostic says corruption, red tape, and regulatory uncertainty are raising the cost of doing business and holding back private investment and jobs.

El Niño Rains Watch: Kenya Meteorological Service says the Oct–Dec rainfall season has started in 24 counties, with wetter-than-normal conditions spreading to more areas next week; Turkana and Samburu are expected to see onset in late October, and farmers are urged to use county forecasts. Climate & Girls’ Safety: A major global study links climate disasters to higher risks of child marriage, teenage pregnancy and violence against girls, with floods, droughts and extreme heat disrupting health and education services. Coastal Weather Update: Kenya Met’s 24-hour forecast flags light to moderate rainfall in 11 counties including Kilifi and Lamu, with thunderstorms in Wajir and Mandera and strong winds over parts of Turkana, Samburu and Marsabit. Conservation Tech: KALRO says it has developed a natural tsetse repellent sachet, using compounds waterbuck avoid, to create an odour barrier that reduces bites and disease transmission. Coastal Tourism Security: In Mambrui, a beach gazebo owned by Dhahabu Village was burned again, raising fresh concerns about safety and investment risks. Governance & Environment: The Registrar of Companies dissolved 440 firms, with construction/real estate hardest hit, while a Kilifi group petitions for regulation of quad-bike tourism on sensitive coastal dunes. Wildlife Media: National Geographic’s “Africa: Earth’s Wild Home” spotlights African ecosystems and conservation leaders.

Wildlife & Land Protection: Villagers torched Kuti Wildlife Reserve tourism facilities in Salima after rangers intercepted alleged poachers, reigniting fears of poaching and weak enforcement. Conservation & Fire Risk: A huge wildfire at Tsavo East National Park spread toward the Taveta–Voi highway, with authorities yet to clearly explain the cause; it follows another major fire earlier in September. Coastal Environment: A Kilifi community petitioned the Senate to regulate quad-bike tourism on Mamburi-Magarini dunes, warning of safety, access and dune degradation risks. Urban Cleanliness & Flood Prep: Nairobi Governor Sakaja led a citywide clean-up, mobilising the Green Army and residents to unclog drainage and cut garbage ahead of expected heavy rains. Climate & Weather Watch: Kenya Met issued a 24-hour forecast with rainfall in nine counties and strong winds flagged in parts of Turkana, Samburu and Marsabit. Health & Environment Link: A Nairobi hospital-acquired case of the highly drug-resistant fungus Candida auris was reported, raising concerns about infection control in healthcare settings. Energy & Politics (Lamu Refinery): Health CS Aden Duale defended the Dangote refinery deal amid calls for scrutiny, while political allies attacked opposition demands for access to the agreement—keeping environmental and community concerns in the spotlight.

Wildlife & Climate Resilience: Kristin Davis’ rescued elephant calf Chaimu has returned to the wild after years of rehabilitation, a reminder of how conservation work helps animals survive changing conditions. Weather Watch: Kenya Met issued short-term forecasts with rainfall expected in multiple counties and strong winds flagged in parts of the north and northeast—watch for disruptions and localized flooding. Coffee Under Pressure: A Science Summit in Nairobi urged Kenya’s coffee sector to lean on soil testing, farmer-centred science and climate-smart practices to reverse declining yields. Pastoralism & Conflict: Research presented at the same summit found that even “good” rainy seasons can raise livestock values and trigger raids, complicating the usual scarcity narrative. Lamu Refinery Fallout: Ruto announced KSh7.5bn for 3,000 affordable homes in Lamu ahead of the Dangote refinery, while residents’ land and environmental objections continue to threaten timelines. Energy & Accountability: Kenya Power warned of unauthorised access to its X customer-care account, urging customers to use official channels only. Waste & Recycling Economy: Coverage highlights community-led restoration efforts and growing pressure to fix Kenya’s waste and recycling systems.

Climate & Conflict: A new study warns that “good” rainy seasons can still spark pastoralist violence by boosting livestock value, shifting migration routes and intensifying grazing competition. Energy & Security: Kenya Power says its X customer-care account (@KenyaPower_Care) was hit by unauthorised access and urges the public not to respond to messages until recovery is complete. Lamu Refinery Watch: The African Energy Chamber backs Dangote’s Lamu refinery despite a Malindi court order halting activities over land-rights claims, with the project still targeting 2030. Water & Wildlife: Lake Ol Bolossat’s drying has been linked to hippo attacks on nearby communities, with drought, encroachment and catchment degradation cited as drivers. Weather Outlook: Kenya Met forecasts moderate to heavy rains in parts of the Coast, Central, Northern Kenya, Western, Rift Valley and Lake Victoria Basin over the next five days. Waste & Pollution Policy: As plastics treaty talks continue, advocates push for action on all sources of plastic pollution, warning fossil-fuel producers may block production limits. Transport Infrastructure: Mau Summit–Malaba dual carriageway clears an initial viability test, paving the way for deeper feasibility work under a PPP model.

El Niño readiness: The Communications Authority of Kenya has ordered telcos to send government-approved emergency bulk SMS to all active subscribers, waiving opt-in/opt-out rules for El Niño alerts during NEWS simulation tests on Oct 2. Short rains outlook: Kenya Meteorological Service says October–December rains will be wetter than normal, with onset already under way in many counties and spreading to most of the country over the next weeks. Water & farming resilience: Government plans to rehabilitate Turkwel Dam in Turkana (over Sh500m) to revive irrigation for about 1,600 farmers, starting with a baseline assessment that will also review environmental and social safeguards. Climate impacts on livelihoods: A citizens’ assembly in Kakamega highlights how changing weather is worsening risks for women in artisanal gold mining, where women dominate processing roles. Lamu refinery controversy: Dangote’s $16bn Lamu mega-refinery groundbreaking continues amid land-rights and environmental concerns, while COFEK seeks more details on government commitments and equity stakes. Agribusiness investment: The World Bank says Kenya could unlock private investment in avocado, mango, medical manufacturing and coastal tourism if policy constraints are removed, with value-add and cold-chain upgrades key.

Lamu Refinery Update: President William Ruto says no Lamu residents will be displaced over the Dangote $16bn refinery, with government handling compensation and land needs beyond the main site. Court & Community Tensions: The project still faces legal pressure as residents challenge land rights and seek recognition and compensation, with court orders putting activities on hold pending hearings. Climate-Smart Coffee: Kenyan coffee suppliers to UK brands are shifting to newer arabica varieties as volatile rains, pests and diseases linked to climate change cut yields and quality. Clean Energy Investment: KawiSafi Ventures backs Orb Energy with $2m to expand commercial and industrial solar projects across Kenya and East Africa. Waste & Recycling Economy: PAKPRO’s Joyce Gachugi-Waweru highlights how Kenya’s waste recovery and recycling push is building jobs and cutting dumpsite waste. Wildlife Conservation via Fun: Nikon Comedy Wildlife Awards 2026 unveil global finalists, using humour to drive conservation support. Digital Climate Action: UN-Habitat and Global Covenant of Mayors open bids to host the 2028 Innovate4Cities Conference, focusing on urban climate science and practical solutions.

Lamu Refinery Fallout: Aliko Dangote’s $16bn, 700,000-bpd refinery ground-breaking in Lamu is drawing fresh heat over land and environmental risks, with protests and court action seeking to halt activities while residents demand compensation and rights. Climate Finance Push: Kenya’s lawmakers, led by Moses Wetang’ula, are calling for polluters and mineral extractors to fund Africa’s climate adaptation and restoration through stronger continental rules. October Rain Alert: Kenya Met forecasts above-average October rains in Nairobi and many central/eastern counties, warning of heavy downpours that could trigger flash floods, landslides and damage to infrastructure. Wildlife Rescue: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust is helping orphaned elephants and rhinos return to the wild, highlighting ongoing threats from poaching, habitat loss and drought. Circular Economy Drive: Kenya’s private sector is pushing higher recycling to cut waste and create jobs as the country moves toward a circular economy. Digital Divide: A report warns that despite improved connectivity, access remains uneven—especially for youth, women and rural communities—due to high data costs and skills gaps.

El Niño preparedness: Warnings say heavier-than-normal rains are likely from October to December, with drought-hit northern counties facing a risky shift from dry spells to intense downpours—raising fears for livestock, soils, water systems and displacement. Lamu refinery spotlight: Kenya and regional leaders broke ground on Dangote’s $16bn, 700,000-barrel-a-day East Africa refinery in Lamu, but the project remains tangled in land disputes, public participation concerns and court orders that restrict activities on disputed parcels. Climate justice push: National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetang’ula urged stronger accountability for polluters and home-grown climate financing, including a dedicated climate fund and possible taxes on extraction. Waste and methane: Kisumu is among pilot cities in the Global Zero Waste Districts initiative, aiming to cut landfill waste and methane while improving air quality and creating jobs. Solar grid rules: EPRA tightened controls on private solar “dumping” into the Kenya Power network, with potential charges for unauthorised reverse flows. Wildlife and biodiversity: Kenya’s conservation conversation also featured pangolin trafficking efforts and research on elephants using medicinal plants. Agriculture and livelihoods: The Nairobi ASK livestock auction went live, while coverage also highlighted how extreme heat is taking a toll on herders and food systems.