Kenya Launches Upper Athi River Climate Resilience Project to Boost Water Security

The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) has officially launched the Upper Athi River Catchment Area (ARCA) project, a major climate resilience initiative aimed at strengthening community adaptation to climate change and enhancing water security.

The launch, held on 26th February 2026 in Nairobi, brought together senior national and county government officials, development partners and stakeholders from the environment and water sectors.

The project, funded by the Green Climate Fund (GCF), will be implemented in four counties—Nyandarua County, Kiambu County, Nairobi County and Machakos County. It seeks to promote sustainable land and water management, improve early warning systems and strengthen institutional capacity to respond to climate-related risks within the Upper Athi River Catchment.

Speaking during the event, the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Musalia Mudavadi, who was the Chief Guest, reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to climate action and environmental sustainability. He underscored the importance of coordinated partnerships between national and county governments, development partners and local communities in safeguarding critical water resources.

Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Deborah Barasa, said the project will enhance the adaptive capacity of vulnerable communities while protecting vital ecosystems within the catchment area. Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Festus Ng'eno, highlighted the need for integrated catchment management to secure long-term water availability.

Nyandarua Governor Kiarie Badilisha welcomed the initiative, noting that the project will directly benefit communities through improved water resource management and climate-smart interventions. Also present was the Chief Executive Officer of the Water Resources Authority (WRA), Mohammed Shurie, alongside other sector representatives.

NEMA leadership was led by Chairman Emilio Mugo and Director General Mamo B. Mamo, EBS, accompanied by Board members and representatives from various institutions.

The ARCA project will be executed by NEMA in partnership with WRA and the Kenya Meteorological Department (KMD). It is expected to build resilient ecosystems and communities while ensuring sustainable management of water resources in one of Kenya’s key catchment areas.