Slovenian President calls on Kenyans to spearhead global climate action
President Musar stressed the critical need for united efforts in addressing climate change, noting that no nation is spared from its effects.
Slovenian President Nataša Pirc Musar has urged Kenyans to take a frontline role in environmental conservation, highlighting the worsening global climate crisis and its severe impacts.
During her visit to Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) on June 2, 2025, as part of her state visit to Kenya, President Musar stressed the critical need for united efforts in addressing climate change, noting that no nation is spared from its effects.
"Climate change respects no borders. We are now seeing hurricanes and tornadoes hit places like Germany, countries that have never faced such extreme weather before. Just a year and a half ago, Slovenia experienced devastating floods that impacted nearly two-thirds of our land. It was unprecedented," President Musar said.
She cautioned that the time to act is running out fast and called on the global community to embrace environmental protection as a collective duty.
"There is only one Earth. We must safeguard it not only for ourselves but for generations to come," she emphasized.
Pointing out the uneven distribution of global emissions, Musar highlighted that G20 countries are responsible for over 80% of the world’s carbon dioxide output, with Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Italy among the top emitters.
In comparison, Africa contributes just 6%, and smaller countries like Slovenia have even smaller carbon footprints.
"No nation is too small to make a difference. Climate action must be global, inclusive, and urgent," President Musar emphasized.
She was joined by JKUAT Vice Chancellor Prof. Victoria Wambui Ngumi, Kiambu Governor Kimani Wamatangi, and Kiambu Woman Representative Anne Wamuratha, who all reinforced the need for stronger, data-driven, and climate-resilient solutions.
Dr. Stephen Jackson, the UN Resident Coordinator in Kenya, also commended academic institutions like JKUAT for their vital role in crafting long-term, locally led climate strategies.
He highlighted ongoing partnerships between the UN and Kenyan universities aimed at boosting climate research, innovation, and policy development.
These remarks come amid growing calls for universities to lead innovation and sustainability efforts.
At Zetech University’s 7th Research and Innovation Week, themed "Education for Sustainable Prosperity: Empowering Lives Through Innovation," Deputy Vice Chancellor Prof.
Alice Njuguna urged higher learning institutions to champion the climate change agenda by integrating innovative solutions and research.
Prof. Njuguna stressed the urgency of adopting advanced technologies and creative approaches to tackle the severe impacts of climate change, such as hunger, loss of life, and unpredictable rainfall patterns that threaten agriculture and water security.
