REFLECTING ON THE GREENS COCKTAIL EVENT: CLIMATE CHANGE AND THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT
On October 17th, 2024, the UGM Party hosted a Greens Cocktail Event focused on Climate Change and the Built Environment. This event brought together experts, professionals, and activists to explore the intersection of climate change and urban development. The event highlighted the importance of building sustainable urban spaces, questioned implementation of existing policies, and emphasized the role of citizens in holding leaders accountable for a greener, more inclusive future.
Prof. Alfred Omenya delivered the keynote address. With a career spanning decades, Prof. Omenya has advocated for environmental reforms in Africa, participating in various international platforms including various Conference of Parties (CoPs). As one of the few Africans championing a rights-based approach to climate change, Prof. Omenya emphasized that addressing climate change issues in urban development does not mean choosing between green and brown solutions—both can and must coexist for true sustainability.
During his presentation, Prof. Omenya addressed Kenya’s Affordable Housing Project, expressing strong criticism of the housing levy, which he argued is unconstitutional. He stated that the levy does not respect the fundamental right to adequate housing, as defined by the UN Committee on Economic, Social, and Cultural Rights. According to this framework, adequate housing must include legal security of tenure, availability of essential services, affordability, habitability, accessibility, and cultural adequacy.
Prof. Omenya’s concerns resonated with participants who pointed out the harsh reality facing urban dwellers in Kenya: the majority live in conditions that fall far short of these standards. Informal settlements, where many urban residents reside, often pose severe risks due to poor structural integrity and proximity to hazardous areas like dumpsites, which threaten the health and safety of residents.
Prof. Omenya emphasized that these challenges persist because the government has failed to recognize and address informal settlements’ needs. He cautioned Kenyans not to underestimate the government’s power, stressing that change is possible if the government acknowledges these settlements and invests in necessary infrastructure to improve residents’ living conditions. He urged Kenyans to continue raising their voices against injustices and to hold leaders accountable for sustainable urban development.
The keynote address was followed by a panel discussion, moderated by QS Jedida Waguthi, a UGM Party MP aspirant for Ndia Constituency in the 2022 General Elections. She was joined by QS Alfred Aluvaala, Chairperson of the College of Fellows for the Architectural Association of Kenya, and Arch. Marylyn Musyimi, a green building expert.
The panel explored several important topics, including why Kenyans hesitate to adopt green building practices, the importance of sustainable building methods, and the need for green spaces in cities and towns. They noted that Kenya already has a strong legal framework for regulating the built environment, yet implementation remains a significant challenge.
QS Aluvaala highlighted a critical issue where duty-bearers fail to enforce building regulations, which has led to the construction of sub-standard buildings that often collapse, causing loss of life and property. He stressed that this issue is worsened by corruption and negligence among inspectors who fail to ensure compliance with safety codes. Arch. Marylyn Musyimi echoed this sentiment and emphasized that green practices and strict adherence to building standards could significantly improve urban life quality, beginning with cleaner air. She underscored the importance of green building practices as both a climate mitigation measure and a pathway to healthier, more resilient communities.
The message from the event was clear: as a nation, Kenyans often know the right steps, yet frequently fall short of acting on them. For Kenyans to live in harmony with their environment and preserve Mother Nature, we must take personal responsibility for making the right choices, including electing leaders who prioritize the well-being of people and the planet. The event emphasized that sustainable development is not solely a government responsibility; it is a shared commitment requiring all citizens’ active participation.
As UGM Party continues to host the Greens Cocktail Events, we remain committed to fostering discussions that challenge the status quo and inspire real action for a sustainable and equitable Kenya. The insights and energy shared at this event on Climate Change and the Built Environment reaffirm our belief that, with the right policies, good leadership and collective effort, Kenyans can build cities that are resilient to climate change, inclusive, and dignified for all.
We invite you to join us in this journey toward a greener, brighter future for our country. Let’s continue to advocate for policies that align with Kenyans’ rights and aspirations, and let’s hold our leaders accountable for the sustainable urban development our cities need.
To join the Greens, dial *509# and follow the prompts. Become a member of the Green Party that Promises Total Inclusivity, let us be the change we want to see!