In a significant step towards addressing the pressing challenges posed by climate change, the Vihiga County Government has formalized its commitment to setting up a Centre of Excellence for Climate Action and Research (CECARE) through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Kaimosi Friends University (KAFU) and University Fund at KAFU. The MOU signing ceremony took place in the Vihiga County Governor’s office on Wednesday 9th August, 2023, with notable attendees including the Vihiga County Governor, Deputy Governor, and several high-ranking county officials. Representing Kaimosi Friends University was the acting Vice Chancellor Prof. Ogodo, M.J. Nandi, Dr. Caroline Mulinya, Director of Linkages and Career Services and Ms. Mayavi, the University's legal officer.
The agreement reflects the growing recognition of the urgent need to tackle climate achange at the local level. With climate-related challenges intensifying and impacting communities across the globe, the partnership between the Vihiga County Government and Kaimosi Friends University marks a proactive effort to pool resources, expertise, and knowledge to effectively address these issues within the region.
Vihiga County Governor Dr. Wilber Ottichilo expressed the county's commitment to fostering sustainable development and resilience in the face of climate change. The Governor highlighted that this collaboration with Kaimosi Friends University signifies a strategic move towards evidence-based decision-making, informed by rigorous research and the implementation of impactful climate action initiatives.
The MOU outlines key areas of cooperation between the County Government and the University, including:
- Research Initiatives: The partnership will facilitate joint research projects focused on assessing the local impact of climate change, identifying vulnerabilities, and developing adaptation and mitigation strategies tailored to Vihiga County.
- Capacity Building: Kaimosi Friends University will play a pivotal role in enhancing the county's capacity to address climate challenges by offering specialized training, workshops, and seminars for county officials, researchers, KAFU students and community stakeholders.
- Policy Development: The collaboration aims to inform evidence-based policy formulation by providing policymakers with up-to-date and region-specific climate data and insights generated through research efforts.
- Community Engagement: Both entities will work closely to raise awareness and engage local communities in sustainable practices and resilience-building activities, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility for environmental stewardship.
During the ceremony, Prof. Nandi, the Vice Chancellor of Kaimosi Friends University, emphasized the institution's dedication to leveraging its academic resources for the betterment of society. The partnership with Vihiga County aligns seamlessly with the university's mission to contribute to sustainable development and create meaningful impacts beyond the campus boundaries.
Dr. Mulinya, Director of Linkages at KAFU, highlighted the potential of cross-disciplinary collaboration to provide holistic solutions to complex climate-related challenges. Ms. Mayavi, the University's legal officer, emphasized the legal framework that underpins the partnership, ensuring its longevity and effectiveness.
The MOU signing event marked a significant milestone in the journey towards a more resilient and sustainable future for Vihiga County. It serves as an inspiring example of how local governments and academic institutions can come together to drive positive change and combat the adverse effects of climate change. The partnership between the Vihiga County Government and Kaimosi Friends University stands as a demonstration to the power of collective action in shaping a more environmentally secure and prosperous tomorrow.