Bungoma County Climate Change Finance Policy 2020

Abstract

This Policy is an important part of accelerating county’s development aspirations. The county’s high dependence on climate-sensitive natural resources for livelihoods increases its vulnerability. to climate change. The county has not been left out as evidenced with increasing temperatures, irregular and unpredictable rainfall patterns resulting in drought, landslides and floods. The negative impacts of these changing climatic patterns include: reduced agricultural production leading to increased food insecurity, loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services, damage to infrastructure, increased health costs, and declines in the quality and quantity of water resources. The cost of managing climate change impacts is increasing. Recent climate variability has had significant social and economic costs. Frequent floods and droughts have led to loss of life and damaged property, and exerted pressure on public finances – all of which can slow down growth prospects. The cost of insurance where available is increasing, and the County has to divert financial resources to cover the additional costs of adapting to climate change impacts, thereby reducing more productive sector investments. Similarly, the County government is forced to spend public resources on new or improved infrastructure, on efforts to seek alternative sources of food and water, and on relocation of communities and recovery operations from natural disasters.