May 1, 2025 — Nairobi, Kenya
On April 30th, 2025, Kenya reaffirmed its position as a regional and global climate leader by officially submitting its Second Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). This submission outlines Kenya’s climate action plan for the period 1st January 2031 to 31st December 2035, building on its previous commitments while embracing a more ambitious and inclusive climate agenda.
This new NDC is a reflection of Kenya’s bold, fast-forward-looking climate strategy amid increasing global uncertainty. Developed through a whole-of-society approach, the NDC incorporates diverse stakeholder voices and sets a high standard for climate governance in Africa.
Key Commitments in Kenya’s 2031–2035 NDC
- A Climate-Resilient Vision
Kenya envisions a climate-resilient society where livelihoods, ecosystems, and key sectors such as infrastructure and the economy are protected from both current and projected climate impacts. The plan includes robust adaptation and loss-and-damage measures aimed at building long-term resilience. - Mitigation Ambition
Kenya aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 35% by 2035 compared to a business-as-usual scenario (215 million tons of CO₂ equivalent). This translates to a targeted reduction of 75.25 million tons of CO₂ equivalent, marking a significant step toward decarbonization. - Implementation Criteria
To achieve these targets, Kenya will domestically mobilize resources to deliver 20% of the required emission reductions. The remaining 80% will rely on international support through finance, technology transfer, capacity building, and participation in carbon markets. - Investment Requirements
The total cost of implementing mitigation and adaptation actions is projected at USD 56 billion between 2031 and 2035. Of this, USD 1.05 billion (approx. 19%) is expected to come from domestic sources, while the rest will depend on international support. - Catalysts for Growth
This second NDC is not only about emissions and resilience—it is a catalyst for transformative economic development. It is expected to drive innovation, green job creation, and inclusive growth in priority sectors of the Kenyan economy. - Alignment with Long-Term Development
Since the NDC period extends beyond Kenya Vision 2030, the government commits to aligning future climate actions with the country’s forthcoming Long-Term Development Vision, ensuring sustainability and policy coherence.
What This Means for Africa and the World
Kenya’s submission is a significant milestone for Africa’s climate diplomacy, signaling the continent’s readiness to lead with action despite being among the least responsible for global emissions. It sends a powerful message that developing nations can be both vulnerable and visionary.
Globally, this move contributes to the Paris Agreement goals, urging major emitters to match Kenya’s ambition with equitable climate finance and solidarity. It also strengthens the momentum leading to COP30 in Brazil, where revised NDCs will shape the next phase of global climate cooperation.
A CGMR Perspective
We applaud the Kenyan government’s efforts, led by Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah N. Barasa, for demonstrating what inclusive, science-based, and justice-oriented climate planning looks like. This NDC underscores the importance of climate governance that is responsive to both people and planet, and we call on youth across the continent to engage, innovate, and hold institutions accountable.