Mt. Kenya Network Forum (MKNF) has formally written to the Laikipia County Government regarding major concerns over the public participation process for the ongoing development of the Laikipia County Climate Change Policy and the Laikipia County Climate Change Act.
While we acknowledge and appreciate the County Government’s effort to craft these crucial climate governance instruments, MKNF has identified serious gaps that risk undermining the legitimacy, inclusivity, and legal compliance of the entire process.
Why This Matters
Climate policies and legislation shape how communities adapt, respond, and build resilience to climate impacts. Laikipia County—home to pastoralists, smallholder farmers, indigenous communities, and vulnerable populations—requires a process that truly reflects grassroots realities and community priorities.
Public participation is not optional — it is a legal and constitutional requirement. Any process that falls short puts the rights of citizens at risk and exposes the County to potential legal challenges.
Key Concerns Raised by MKNF
After reviewing the official public notice and comparing it to constitutional and statutory standards, MKNF flagged the following issues:
1. Inadequate Notice
The County scheduled public participation and the deadline for written submissions on the same day (28th November 2025).
This violates the requirements of adequate notice under the County Governments Act.
2. Simultaneous Ward Meetings
All forums are scheduled at the same time (10:00 AM), denying communities the ability to attend sessions relevant to them.
3. Limited Access to Draft Documents
The drafts were said to be on the County website only, with no alternative formats (hard copies, local languages, summaries). This excludes residents without internet access.
4. No Clear Feedback Mechanism
The notice does not explain how public views will be recorded, published, or incorporated into the final drafts — a violation of transparency and accountability standards.
5. Exclusion of Vulnerable Groups
There are no provisions for participation by persons with disabilities, youth, pastoralists, women’s groups, or remote-area communities.
6. Insufficient Time for Technical Deliberation
Climate legislation is complex and cannot be meaningfully discussed through a one-day countywide exercise.
Recommendations by MKNF
To safeguard legitimacy and compliance, MKNF proposes the following corrective steps:
A. Extend the Participation Timeline
Provide 21–30 days for communities to review and respond to the documents.
B. Make Documents Accessible
- Hard copies in all wards and sub-county offices
- Executive summaries in Kiswahili and local languages
- Formats for persons with disabilities (Braille/audio)
C. Use Multiple Communication Channels
Community radio, SMS alerts, churches, barazas, online sessions, and ward notice boards.
D. Stagger Public Forums
Hold meetings across 7–14 days instead of simultaneous sessions.
E. Provide Technical Briefings
Break down legal, financial, and environmental implications to help residents make informed contributions.
F. Establish a Transparent Feedback System
Publish submissions and a County Response Matrix to show how each concern shaped (or did not shape) the final policy.
What MKNF Is Requesting From Laikipia County
MKNF has requested:
- A formal acknowledgment of the letter
- A revised schedule with adequate notice
- Release of accessible-format documents and technical briefs
- Assurance of adherence to constitutional and Paris Agreement requirements
MKNF remains committed to supporting Laikipia County in developing a climate governance framework that is lawful, people-centered, and inclusive.