On July 3rd, 2025, Mt. Kenya Network Forum proudly joined partners, community leaders, activists, and government stakeholders at the National Launch of the “State of Climate Justice Movements in Kenya” report at Tamarind Hotel, Nairobi.
This important event, hosted by Natural Justice and allies through the African Activists for Climate Justice (AACJ) programme, spotlighted the collective struggles, gaps, and growing momentum within Kenya’s climate justice landscape. But for us at Mt. Kenya Network Forum (MKNF), it was more than just a report — it was a mirror reflecting a journey we’ve walked boldly, including in courtrooms.
Why We Attended
We came to this launch not just to listen, but to affirm a message: climate justice must be inclusive — not symbolic. For too long, decisions affecting climate-impacted communities, indigenous groups, and civil society have been made without them. That exclusion is not just unjust — it’s unconstitutional.
Bringing the Constitution to Climate Justice
Earlier this year, MKNF — in partnership with the Indigenous People National Steering Committee on Climate Change (IPNSCCC) — filed Constitutional Petition No. E049 of 2023.
We challenged the opaque and exclusionary appointments made to the National Climate Change Council, citing violations of public participation, transparency, and the rights of marginalized communities.
And on May 2, 2025, the High Court of Kenya agreed.
The Court ruled that the appointments were unlawful, unconstitutional, and must be redone within 90 days — this time, in full compliance with Article 10 of the Constitution and the Climate Change Act, 2016.
This was not just a legal victory — it was a moment of policy correction.
What This Means for Kenya’s Climate Justice Movement
The CJM Report launch emphasized many things:
- The growing resilience of grassroots actors.
- The systemic barriers they face.
- And the power of evidence-based, rights-driven climate advocacy.
MKNF’s legal journey fits right into this narrative. It shows that community voices are not just participants — we are enforcers of justice.
We believe climate policy must be shaped by those living its consequences. That includes the mother in Laikipia facing food insecurity, the youth activist in Embu, and the pastoralist family enduring drought in Isiolo.
What’s Next
As we continue to engage in national and regional platforms, MKNF remains committed to:
- Monitoring the re-appointment process to ensure compliance with the court’s ruling.
- Amplifying grassroots and indigenous participation in climate governance.
- Supporting legal empowerment, civic education, and local climate solutions across Mt. Kenya and beyond.
In Gratitude
We thank Natural Justice, AACJ, and all partners for spotlighting the movement — and for inviting voices like ours to the table. As we move forward, we invite more allies to join us in building a climate justice movement that is rooted, resilient, and truly representative.
Follow us on X (@MtKenyaNetwork1) for more updates.
