Civil Society Vows to Guard Climate Funds in Uasin Gishu and Baringo
Chengule revealed that he has already taken matters into his own hands by starting a massive tree planting project in Turbo.
Civil society groups from Uasin Gishu and Baringo counties pledge to monitor climate change funds to ensure transparency and proper use. Phoo/UG County.
By Jessica Nyaboke
Civil society groups from Uasin Gishu and Baringo counties have vowed to keep a close eye on climate change funds to ensure the money is used transparently and for its intended purpose.
Speaking during a climate accountability forum held in Baringo, Philip Tumno, a civil society leader from the county, emphasized the importance of public participation and transparency in climate financing, particularly under the Financing Locally Led Climate Action (FLLoCA) initiative.
“Social accountability is key. We’ve seen too many cases where public funds are misused, and no one is held responsible. This time, we will not sit back and watch,” said Tumno.
Tumno’s sentiments were echoed by another outspoken activist, Ole Chengule, a climate champion from Kapsaos Ward in Uasin Gishu. He stressed that climate change funds should be directed towards practical and impactful projects like afforestation.
“We all have a role to play. Funds meant for climate change should not end up in people’s pockets. They should go into planting trees, conserving water, and protecting our environment. Right now, we’re already feeling the heat of global warming because we destroyed our forests,” said Chengule.
Chengule revealed that he has already taken matters into his own hands by starting a massive tree planting project in Turbo. So far, he has planted more than 500,000 fruit trees, part of his grassroots initiative to help restore degraded ecosystems and combat the effects of climate change.
“Our environment is our future. By planting trees, we’re not just fighting climate change, we’re also creating food security and restoring livelihoods,” he said.
The forum brought together community leaders, environmentalists, and county officials to discuss how funds under the FLLoCA programme – a government-backed initiative supported by development partners – can be better monitored and used to address the real needs on the ground.
With Kenya facing increasing threats from droughts, floods, and erratic weather patterns, civil society groups are pushing for stronger oversight to ensure that climate funds make a tangible impact.
“These funds belong to the people, and they must work for the people. Every tree planted, every water source protected – it must be traceable and accountable,” Tumno emphasized.
The call for accountability comes at a time when concerns about corruption and mismanagement of public resources remain high. But with growing community involvement, local climate champions believe they can make a difference.
“We must act now. Climate change is not waiting for anyone,” said Chengule.
The two counties are among those receiving funds through the FLLoCA program aimed at building climate resilience at the grassroots. Civil society members say they will remain vigilant to ensure the money brings real change to the communities who need it most.
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