Kenya is a country in East Africa with a southeastern coastline along the Indian Ocean. Low plateaus run from the coast inland to mountain ranges in the southwest of the country. The coast is typically hot and humid whilst the north and northeast are hot and arid, and the highlands are cooler. The population and agricultural land are mainly concentrated in Kenya’s western, central, and coastal regions. It is highly vulnerable to the effects of climate change and is highly exposed to natural hazards (particularly floods and droughts) (GRID Geneva, n.d.). 

Across all emission scenarios Kenya’s average annual temperature is projected to rise by the end of the century compared to pre-industrial levels (World Bank Group 2021). Precipitation is expected to remain highly variable, with extreme rainfall events increasing frequency, duration, and intensity (ibid.). Climate change will likely increase the risk and intensity of floods and increase the likelihood of drought in some areas (ibid.). Extreme rainfall may lead to increased risk of mudslides and landslides, particularly in mountainous areas (ibid.). Kenya’s majority rain-fed agricultural sector is an essential part of its economy and food security; however, it is particularly vulnerable to climate change (GRID Geneva, n.d.). The high degree of variability in seasonal rainfall already has severe consequences on livelihoods of small-scale farmers and is expected to be exacerbated by climate change (ibid.). Sea level rise threatens the safety and livelihoods of coastal communities, as well as key sectors like fishing, fisheries, shipping, and tourism. The mountain glaciers that supply water for almost 60% of the country’s hydropower and large parts of its agricultural land are expected to disappear in the next 30 years, threatening energy, food, and water security (ibid). 

Despite aiming to increase renewables in its energy generation mix (Republic of Kenya,  2020)  Kenya’s coal usage is expected to increase in the coming years with two new coal powerplants in the proposal stages.