In January 2023, we wish to launch a Community Climate Action Platform (CCAP) to support local community mainstream climate change adaptation and promote positive environmental impact.

Our community depend on River Kibos as the only source of water however, due to improper land use and rapid urbanization, the region has experienced 7.0% decrease in tree cover and 100% of tree cover loss. As a result, there has been drastic reduction of water levels and severe shortage in supply of treated, piped water within the region.

The shortage poses a threat to an estimated 600,000 residents who despite being close to Lake Victoria, are not guaranteed access to clean and safe water. Kisumu City, has majorly 2 water catchment areas: River Kibos and Lake Victoria. The lake experiences periods of pollution caused by human activity and invasion by the water hyacinth, hence its treatment sometimes becomes complicated. The river is then the only available source of water for the city. Residents are thus forced to compliment water supply, by getting water directly from the lake, untreated boreholes, or private vendors. The result: frequent cholera, dysentery and typhoid epidemics.

Role of the platform will be: bring together CSOs/communities for policy advocacy; Community Education on Climate Action, Environmental Conservation, hygiene and sanitation; Promote planting of indigenous trees (reforestation and afforestation); and Generate data on challenges and local solutions.

Women will be targeted as local champions as they are most affected by water issues and the lack of it.