Nakuru City is pioneering nature based solutions for sustainable future

 KNA by Veronica Bosibori…

 In a move towards a greener and more resilient urban environment, Nakuru City is leading the charge in integrating nature-based strategies into its urban planning. The city’s dedication to sustainable development is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 11 since the goal is to promote sustainable cities and communities. 

Nakuru residents participated in a workshop on using Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) to tackle the pressing urban climate issues. The event, as part of the Second Kenya Urban Support Program (KUSP2) assessment, brought together key stakeholders to explore how cities can implement sustainable solutions to improve infrastructure and combat climate risks.

City Manager Gitau Thabanja highlighted the immense potential of Nbs to transform the city’s urban environment. He stated, “We are exploring practical ways to integrate these solutions to benefit our cities. Additionally, he said the county government leadership was committed to delivering on Governor Susan Kihika’s vision for sustainable development.

The workshop featured in-depth discussions to identify NbS strategies that have not yet been implemented in urban areas. Whereby participants deliberated on innovative solutions such as reducing urban flooding and installing terraces and slopes. These strategies not only address climate change but also contribute to biodiversity conservation and improve the overall quality of life for city residents.

Recognizing the importance of collaboration and resource mobilization, the workshop emphasized the need for partnerships between local governments, private sector players, and community stakeholders. Thabanja added that these partnerships are essential for the successful implementation and maintenance of NBS projects.

The workshop was supported by the Global Centre on Adaptation (GCA) through the World Bank, with consultancy support from SUEZ Consulting and Alpex Consulting Africa Limited (ACAL).

The GCA is preparing an NSB Compilation to offer practical guidance to cities and municipalities on effectively prioritizing and executing NbS projects.

 Moreover, the city Manager noted that NBS has the capacity of helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change, such as extreme weather events and rising temperatures. And, urban areas often experience habitat loss, hence Nbs can assist in the restoration of ecosystems.

The speaker noted that nature-based solutions can improve the livability of cities by introducing green spaces, hence improving air quality, and reducing noise pollution. Adding NBS has the potential to create jobs and generate economic opportunities, particularly in sectors such as green infrastructure and sustainable tourism.

Moreover, underlining the significance of social equity, Thabanja said NBS can contribute to green spaces even in informal settlement areas and improve the health and well-being of all residents.

Lastly, by embracing nature-based solutions, Nakuru City is setting an example for other local cities, demonstrating the importance of sustainable urban development and its contribution to a more resilient and equitable future.