Climate Smart Agriculture Policy Interventions for Inclusive and Sustainable Development

Jacqueline Njambi Kamau; Justine Magutu; Henry Amadi

Jacqueline Njambi Kamau University of Nairobi http://orcid.org/0000-0002-6950-8713
Justine Magutu University of Nairobi http://orcid.org/0009-0001-6902-5260
Henry Amadi University of Nairobi https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6068-0779

Keywords: Climate-smart agriculture, Gender parity, Just transition, Social inclusion, Sustainable development

Abstract

Climate change poses significant challenges to Kenya, impacting its agricultural sector through erratic weather patterns, including prolonged droughts and increased flooding. Climate Smart Agriculture has emerged as a strategy for adaptation and promotion of environmental sustainability and sustainable development. The Climate Change Act, 2016, National Climate Change Action Plan 2018– 2022, and National Climate Change Framework Policy Sessional Article No. 3 of 2016 are among the policies Kenya's government has put in place to lessen the effects of climate change and encourage economic empowerment. Kenya's government is implementing the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change to advance food security and social inclusion in equitable transition processes. In this article, climate change governance, as outlined in the policies, is evaluated. The article also examines whether gender-based inequality is promoted through policy shortcomings and roadblocks. The article applied desk research, examining available literature, database analysis, and policy article reviews. The study assesses how these policies have affected gender parity in climate-smart agriculture. The results show that, while climate change legislation has supported resilience and a green economy, knowledge of gender-based inequality has not been raised. Since the policies do not support equal opportunities for men and women, climate-smart agriculture has contributed to increased gender-based inequities. The policies strongly emphasize climate-smart agriculture and enhance standards and productivity levels. However, they are insensitive to gender prejudices, and there are no provisions to enhance the working conditions for female laborers who provide their services for planting and harvesting. The study recommends fast-tracking implementation with effective monitoring and evaluation tools. In conclusion, climate change policies should target all actors to build sustainable development and adequate food security.