Stakeholders from various sectors gathered in Kano to validate the state’s Climate Change Policy, a collaborative effort led by the Kano State Watershed, Erosion and Climate Change Management Agency, UNICEF, and the Partnership for Agile Governance and Climate Engagement (PACE). The meeting, held on November 7, 2024, aimed to finalize the policy that addresses the pressing challenges of climate change in the region.
Key Takeaways
- The validation meeting was attended by government officials, NGOs, civil society, and academics.
- The Commissioner of Environment emphasized the government’s commitment to tackling climate change.
- The policy development process began in February 2024, with multiple stakeholder engagements.
- UNICEF and PACE reaffirmed their support for the Kano government in implementing the policy.
Overview of the Meeting
The one-day meeting was a culmination of months of collaborative efforts to develop a comprehensive climate change policy for Kano State. The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from government ministries, non-governmental organizations, civil society, and the media, all focused on addressing the impacts of climate change.
Government Commitment
Alhaji Nasiru Sule Garo, the Commissioner of Environment, spoke about the state government’s ongoing efforts to combat climate change. He acknowledged the contributions of development partners and stakeholders, assuring them that their inputs would be valued in the final policy document.
Stakeholder Engagement Process
Dr. Muhammad S. Khalid, Executive Secretary of the Kano State Watershed, Erosion and Climate Change Management Agency, outlined the extensive engagement process that began in February 2024. Key milestones included:
- Initial Stakeholder Engagement (February 2024): Gathering inputs from various sectors.
- First Draft Review (July 2024): A technical session to refine the policy document.
- Second Draft Review (October 2024): Further revisions in Dutse, Jigawa State.
- Validation Meeting (November 2024): Finalizing the policy for presentation to the governor.
Contributions from Partners
Malam Auwalu Hamza from PACE highlighted the importance of the validation stage in strengthening the policy document. He emphasized the need for comprehensive data and expert advice to ensure the policy’s effectiveness.
Stella Terver, UNICEF WASH Programme Officer, reiterated the agency’s commitment to supporting the Kano government. She noted that the validation process would incorporate expert inputs to create a globally recognized policy that addresses climate change effectively.
Positive Impact on Kano
The stakeholders expressed optimism that the validated climate change policy would lead to significant positive outcomes for the people of Kano. By addressing climate change challenges, the policy aims to enhance resilience and promote sustainable development in the region.
In conclusion, the validation of Kano State’s Climate Change Policy marks a significant step towards a coordinated response to climate challenges, with the active involvement of various stakeholders committed to creating a sustainable future for the state.
