Kenyan Farmers Take Legal Action Against Government Over Greenhouse Gas Emissions
In May 2023, five Kenyan farmers filed a petition in the Kisumu High Court, urging the government to implement stricter measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The petitioners—Julie Atieno Ogolla, John Anyara Emukule, Carolyne Kanai Mutemi, Denzel Munge Sembele, and Naom Moraa Nyariki—argue that climate change is severely impacting their livelihoods and poses a significant threat to future generations.
Urging Ambitious Climate Action
The farmers contend that the current concentration of greenhouse gases, approximately 401 parts per million, leaves minimal room to prevent global temperatures from rising beyond the critical 1.5°C threshold. They assert that without immediate and substantial emission reductions, the nation will face intensified droughts, floods, food insecurity, and water shortages.
Legal Demands for Government Accountability
The petition calls for the court to compel key government entities—including the Ministry of Environment, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA), the Council of Governors, and the Treasury—to establish and enforce stringent emission targets within a year. Additionally, they seek a comprehensive report within 90 days detailing Kenya’s current emission levels and a clear strategy to achieve a 30% reduction by 2030, aligning with the country’s international commitments.
Highlighting Socioeconomic Impacts
The farmers emphasize that climate change is exacerbating hunger among schoolchildren, particularly in rural and arid regions, thereby infringing on their right to education. They also highlight that Kenya’s economy, heavily reliant on tourism and rain-fed agriculture, is increasingly vulnerable to climate-induced disruptions.
This legal action underscores the growing demand for governmental accountability in addressing climate change and protecting the rights and livelihoods of its citizens.
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