Climate Change

Samsung Electronics East Africa quietly pledged in 2017 to plant and care for 10,000 indigenous trees in Nairobi’s Karura Forest.

Today, this promise has grown into a thriving green canopy known as the ‘Samsung Forest.’

At the time, Kenya’s forest cover stood at a concerning 7%, falling short of the national target of 10%.

In collaboration with Friends of Karura Forest, Samsung not only planted the trees but also committed to nurturing them, ensuring their growth and longevity.

Now, in 2025, the once-sparse area has transformed into a flourishing green space that attracts thousands of visitors each month, offering a serene escape for joggers, bird-watchers, and families.

Samsung’s contribution extended beyond tree planting, with the installation of 200 benches and picnic tables, creating inviting spaces for the public.

This transformation aligns with Samsung’s broader sustainability objectives, including reducing carbon emissions, promoting a circular economy, and ensuring sustainable practices across its supply chain.

Nyawira Muraguri, Corporate Marketing Manager at Samsung Electronics East Africa, emphasized the importance of long-term commitment.

“True value lies in nurturing these projects over the long term. Sustainability isn’t a one-time effort; it demands consistent dedication every step of the way.”

Samsung’s continued involvement in monitoring and ensuring the project’s success has fostered trust within the local community, showcasing the effectiveness of focused, long-term environmental efforts.

This initiative serves as a model for local impact, contrasting with broader global campaigns by highlighting the power of concentrated initiatives.

African livestock producers have a unique opportunity to improve the production of meat, milk and eggs through modern breeding technologies and innovations being tested in Africa.

According to a recent study published in Nature Genetics. With the right support, these advancements can enhance not only productivity but also climate resilience and sustainability.

Through strategic investment and collaboration, African livestock systems can harness tools such as genomic technologies and breeding programs to drive genetic gains.

Supported by the African Animal Breeding Network (AABNet)—a platform of genetics experts, animal breeders, and professionals providing training, advice, and support—these efforts could lead to more resilient, efficient, and sustainable livestock production, strengthening food security and rural livelihoods across the continent, researchers say.

‘In the past, genetic improvement efforts have largely focused on maximizing productivity, often overlooking environmental and climate considerations. Africa has a unique opportunity to take a different approach—one that balances productivity with sustainability, while ensuring interventions are farmer appropriate and support livelihoods,’ said Professor Appolinaire Djikeng, lead author of the study and Director General for the International Livestock Research Institute.

‘If we design breeding programs with climate adaptation and mitigation in mind, farmers get access to hardier, more productive livestock—and we build livestock systems that work for both people and the planet.’

Currently, around 85% of the world’s livestock keepers are in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), yet they produce only 2.8% of global meat and milk outputs. This productivity gap highlights a significant opportunity to enhance efficiency and climate resilience through improved genetics.

Additionally, a rapidly growing and urbanizing population is set to increase demand for livestock products. In West Africa alone, which has the largest share of the continent’s livestock, demand for meat, milk, and eggs is projected to rise by 50% by 2050.

An international team of researchers, led by the Centre for Tropical Livestock Genetics and Health (CTLGH), conducted the study titled The African Animal Breeding Network as a pathway towards genetic improvement of livestock, which explores the potential for genetic gains in African livestock and how AABNet could contribute to transforming livestock production systems.

The network enables and facilitates a system of genetic evaluation across multiple African countries, collecting, storing, and sharing livestock data to support the development of higher-quality, more productive animals. It also plays a key role in professional development, educational partnerships, training events, and entrepreneurship, promoting strategic collaborations to accelerate progress.

“This represents a timely opportunity, with support from AABNet, to improve agriculture and food systems at a time of population growth and changing climate, towards the United Nations’ and Africa Union’s vision for the continent,” said Professor Mizeck Chagunda, Director of CTLGH.

In addition, AABNet connects animal breeders across Africa, enabling them to share information, evaluation systems, and tools to improve productivity and genetic advancements.

The study highlights the power of collaborative thinking in harnessing advances in genomic technology, digital tools and information and communications technology to establish a foundation for sustainable livestock improvement programs in Africa, researchers say.

In a historic announcement, 2024 has been confirmed as the hottest year on record, eclipsing the previous high set in 2023.

This unprecedented milestone has been corroborated by major climate research institutions, including the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and NASA, who synchronized their temperature data releases to underscore the urgency of the climate crisis.

1985–2024 global average surface temperature categorized by years with a significant La Niña cooling influence (blue), El Niño warming influence (red), neutral conditions (black), and those with a cooling influence from a recent large volcanic eruption (orange triangles). (Data: NASA. Graphic: Dana Nuccitelli.)

A Year of Unrelenting Heat

The alarming trajectory of 2024’s temperatures began long before the year kicked off. By summer’s end, it was evident that 2024 was on track to shatter heat records. Here’s a brief timeline of the year’s extreme weather:

• June: A staggering 63 countries reported their hottest June ever. From July 2023 to June 2024, 138 countries recorded unprecedented high temperatures.
• July: The two hottest days ever recorded occurred on July 22 and 23.
• August: NOAA declared a 77% likelihood that 2024 would be the hottest year on record, with nearly certain placement in the top five. August became the hottest month in 175 years of NOAA records, with temperatures soaring 2.34°F above the average for August, according to NASA.

This culminated in the hottest summer recorded, surpassing previous averages by about 0.2°F, setting the stage for an unseasonably warm fall.

Despite the forewarnings, the official confirmation of 2024 as the hottest year hits hard. Extreme heat, one of the most lethal consequences of climate change, often goes underreported, leading to approximately 429,000 heat-related deaths globally each year.

Vulnerable populations, particularly the elderly, face heightened risks as heat exacerbates pre-existing health conditions.

The most severe impacts of this heat have disproportionately affected small island nations and developing countries, which often bear the brunt of climate change while receiving minimal attention in global discussions.

Understanding the Record Heat

Several factors contributed to 2024’s record-breaking temperatures, but two primary causes stand out:

1. Fossil Fuel Emissions

Fossil fuels remain the leading cause of global warming. In 2024, greenhouse gas emissions surged, pushing atmospheric carbon dioxide levels to around 422.5 parts per million—over 50% higher than pre-industrial levels. Without immediate action to reduce fossil fuel reliance, these emissions will continue to escalate, driving temperatures higher.

2. El Niño Phenomenon

The El Niño climate pattern significantly influenced global temperatures, particularly early in the year. This natural occurrence raises surface temperatures by warming the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Although El Niño’s effects diminished mid-year, the residual warmth kept temperatures elevated through the autumn months.

Notably, 2024 surpassed the previous record set during the last major El Niño event in 2016 by approximately 0.25°C.

While El Niño played a role in the heat, studies indicate that climate change’s impact is becoming more dominant. Research from World Weather Attribution highlights that the effects of climate change increasingly overshadow natural weather phenomena.

Other Contributing Factors

While fossil fuel emissions and El Niño were the main drivers, other factors—such as variations in cloud cover allowing more solar energy to reach the Earth’s surface—also contributed to rising temperatures. However, these influences pale in comparison to the impact of fossil fuels.

The Human Cost of Rising Temperatures

The implications of rising temperatures extend beyond statistics; they manifest as devastating weather events. The World Meteorological Organization reported that the U.S. faced 41 days of extreme heat in 2024. Additionally, the year saw:

• Hurricanes: Five hurricanes, exacerbated by climate change, resulted in 200 fatalities and widespread devastation.
• Flooding: Record rainfall led to catastrophic floods globally, with 15 out of 16 analyzed events intensified by climate change.
• Tornadoes: The worst tornado season since 2011 struck, causing significant destruction.
• Wildfires: North America experienced ongoing wildfires fueled by dry conditions and soaring temperatures.

The UN reported that climate change intensified 26 out of 29 major weather disasters in 2024, resulting in over 3,700 deaths and displacing millions. It was undoubtedly a challenging year for humanity.

What Lies Ahead in 2025?

With 2024 officially recognized as the hottest year on record, what can we expect in 2025? There’s a possibility of a slight cooling trend, especially if the El Niño phenomenon transitions into its counterpart, La Niña.

However, neutral conditions in the Pacific are more likely, according to recent forecasts.

A minor decrease in annual temperatures does not equate to a resolution of the climate crisis. Without addressing the root cause—greenhouse gas emissions from fossil fuel combustion—we risk repeating or surpassing the record heat of 2024.

At the Russian side event at COP29 in Baku titled “Russia’s Contribution to Strengthening Global Food Security,” Sergey Tverdokhleb, Deputy Chairman of the Committee on Climate Policy and Carbon Regulation of the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs, delivered a compelling argument on how closely the climate crisis is linked with the state of the global food security.

The event brought together key officials and leaders in various industries of Russia, as well as a number of international participants, to discuss some of the world’s most pressing issues.

Tverdokhleb stressed that, on the one hand, climate change affects agricultural productivity and food security. On the other hand, the unintended consequences from emerging climate regulations, in turn, affect food systems across the world.

“The impact of floods, droughts, and other climate-related disasters directly reduces crop yields in many countries,” he said. “Last month, several southern African countries declared the state of national emergency due to the loss of grain and livestock, leaving over 10 million people in acute hunger.”

At the same time, carbon regulation just like other unilateral trade restrictions is starting to have both direct and indirect effects on the global food security.

“A classic example is the European cross-border ‘carbon tax’, which will increase fertilizer prices and reduce revenues for the budgets of developing countries, making it even harder for them to finance subsidies for farmers and consumers,” Tverdokhleb warned.

This echoes the idea first expressed by Andrey Melnichenko, the chair of the RSPP Committee on climate policy and carbon regulation.

In his 2022 interview to Bloomberg, he recognized that the impact on sanctions on food security is a critical issue that requires immediate attention, adding that “projected fertilizer shipments lost to sanctions over 12 months would grow enough grain to feed more than 200 million people.”

On the bright side, Sergey Tverdokhleb highlighted the huge potential of agricultural climate projects to address both emission reduction and food-security challenges.

“Nature-based projects in agriculture could reduce or offset at least 35–40% of global agricultural emissions. This dual benefit must be a cornerstone of international climate efforts,” he added.

Besides, several speakers emphasized the significant input of Russia’s food and fertilizer exports for the  countries in the Global South.

Its fertilizer exports rose 25% in the past year, enhancing food security for 1.2 billion people. “Russian fertilizers provide 22% of the nutrients used by farmers in these regions, underscoring their critical role,” Tverdokhleb noted.

During Russian Science Day at COP29 in Baku Azerbaijan, the Russian Union of Industrialists and Entrepreneurs Committee on Climate Policy and Carbon Regulation, chaired by Andrey Melnichenko, mentioned the huge potential of nature-based solutions (NbS) in fighting climate change.

Tapping into the intrinsic abilities of forests, grasslands, peatlands and wetlands to capture and store carbon, a country like Russia can be very instrumental in reducing greenhouse gas emissions while maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem health.

NbS has the potential to foster deeper international collaboration through cross-border sharing of project outcomes, a step that could accelerate Russia’s journey to carbon neutrality by 2060.

Science Day at COP28: Showcasing Russian Achievements in Climate Policy

The Science Day featured key figures including Sergey Tverdokhleb, Deputy Chairman of the Russian Committee and others. Tverdokhleb emphasized the strategic importance of developing carbon testing sites within Russia, “The creation of these carbon sites will enable us to develop and test technologies for carbon balance management right here in our own territory.”

Melnichenko has repeatedly underscored that science plays a decisive role in the implementation of nature-based climate solutions, which are essential for meeting both national and international climate goals.

East Africa’s Leadership in Nature-Based Solutions: Advancing Climate and Environmental Goals

There has been an ever-growing proactive step taken by countries in East Africa, in employing NbS towards mitigating the impacts of climate change and enhancing biodiversity for sustainable development within the climate variability contexts in the region. Countries like Kenya are leading from the front in embedding NbS within environmental strategies that restore landscapes and uplift communities.

It is used to implement “Regreening Kenya” project; an initiative aimed at rehabilitating 150,000 hectares of the degraded land and also enhancing the livelihoods of 50,000 farmers through agroforestry. The “Triple Benefit Project-Land to Sea” is focused on coastal resilience by engaging parties like ICEA Lion in strengthening the resilience of coastal ecosystems to impacts of climate change. By 2050, Kenya will have to address annual NbS full implementation cost estimates at around USD 1.2 billion, with 40% of this amount expected from the private sector. Additionally, Kenya is set to recover 300,000 hectares of forest cover every year in its commitment toward climate action toward achieving a reduction in emissions of 32% by 2030.

In the Tigray Region of Ethiopia, large-scale land restoration projects successfully reverted degraded lands into fertile ones. With the implementation of soil and water conservation and community-led reforestation efforts, the region uplifted soil fertility, increased vegetation cover, and eventually raised food security for its populations. These NbS approaches rehabilitated the land and built its resilience against climate stresses.

The Ugandan Rwenzori Mountains Conservation project addresses one of the most unique ecosystems found in East Africa, under siege by deforestation and climate change. These include reforestation, wetland restoration, and the promotion of sustainable agriculture to protect this water source and biodiversity. Wetland restoration, with complemented forested areas, allows Uganda to aid in securing the health of this watery lifeline for both local livelihoods and biodiversity.

The Gishwati-Mukura Landscape Restoration is an address to deforestation and degradation in areas of the Gishwati and Mukura forests of Rwanda. The activities within this project include the actual reforestation, establishment of buffer zones, and encouraging eco-friendly livelihoods among local communities. These measures comprise the restoration of forest cover, reduction of soil erosion, and sustainable use of resources.

Together, these initiatives reflect East Africa’s robust commitment to integrating Nature-based Solutions into national climate and environmental policies.

Why Russia is vitally important to leverage nature-based solutions

Back to Russia! with its extensive areas, there is no country better equipped than Russia to implement nature-based solutions, which are in a position to make a real difference in terms of climate goals on the global scale.

Right now, Russia’s ecosystems stand capable of absorbing millions of tons of CO₂ annually, though with strategic investment and supportive policies, many more tons could be sequestered.

According to recent reports, natural climate projects across Russia could potentially save up to 500-1,000 million tons of CO₂ each year equivalent to the yearly emissions of Germany.

This potential places Russia among the countries with the highest possible impact using nature-based solutions.

The Power of Forests and Peatlands

Forests cover more than 800 million hectares of Russian territory, which is the largest forested area in the world. Due to these extensive areas, forests naturally absorb and store enormous amounts of CO₂ while serving as a huge carbon sink. By investment in reforestation and preventing deforestation, Russia is in a position to increase this power of carbon capture considerably. For instance it is estimated that reforestation projects and forest protection may save as many as 250 million tons of CO₂ per year in emissions.

Peatlands are another vital ecosystem for carbon storage. When left intact or restored, Russia’s peatlands sequester carbon at an astonishing rate. However, drained or degraded peatlands emit stored carbon back into the atmosphere. Restoring such peatlands through “secondary flooding”-rewetting-might decrease CO₂ emissions by an additional 100 million tons annually.

Tundra and Grasslands: Untapped Carbon Sinks

Tundra-a very particular landscape in the north of Russia-is under threat from permafrost thaw, which may potentially release methane significantly more potent as a greenhouse gas than CO₂. Protection of tundra restoration and the Arctic has the potential to offset this and save up to 50 million tons of CO₂-equivalent annually.

Grasslands are equally promising in this respect. Better management of high-carbon soils in grasslands can help Russia to lock more carbon in the soil. According to different estimates improved grassland management might capture up to 30 million tons of CO₂ yearly.

NbS: A Win-Win for the Planet and Nations

Each climate action through natural climate projects is a win-win, not only for the climates but also for the rich biodiversities of every country.

If all countries, in their own way, gear up and focus on NbS they will be assured not only of achieving their respective climate targets but also of actively contributing in meaningful ways to global efforts against climate change.

Achieving the objectives of the Paris Agreement and drastically reducing net emissions is hard to achieve without the role of natural ecosystems; biodiversity preservation is essential for sustainable development and for reaching many key Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Yet, the potential of natural ecosystems remains underutilized due to the lack of support, comparable to that given to renewable energy sources, additionally NbS face the challenges in developing reliable calculation methods for ecosystem benefits, often, only easily quantifiable actions are prioritized.

These gaps are to be filled through continued efforts in projects of greenhouse gas emission, advancing an international carbon market, gathering high-quality scientific data to help with refinement methodologies of calculations, and using pilot sites as critical tools in ecosystem-based solutions.

Karen Wanjiru Kimani, an eleven-year-old Kenyan, is a force of nature. This remarkable young lady has already planted over 30,000 trees, spearheaded plastic recycling initiatives, and addressed world leaders at the UN Climate Change Conference.

Now, she’s set to inspire a new generation of environmental activists at the upcoming Northern Forum on Sustainable Development in Yakutsk, Russia, where she will share her passion and vision for a greener future.

Karen’s journey began with a simple observation: adults were wreaking havoc on the environment. Witnessing the destruction of trees and the pervasive problem of plastic pollution, she felt compelled to act.

At the age of ten, she founded a tree nursery, hoping to replace lost trees and create a haven for nature enthusiasts to nurture seedlings.

“Trees are important for our environment,” Karen tells SCENES. “I feel happy when I step into my tree nursery, seeing the trees growing and seeing people plant trees.”

Her dedication extends beyond tree planting. On weekends, she leads a plastic recycling club and organizes community clean-ups with her friends.

Her commitment to environmental stewardship has earned her the title of Cabinet Secretary for the Environment at her school and an invitation to the prestigious UN Climate Change Conference, COP27, in Egypt. As the youngest delegate at the conference, Karen had the opportunity to engage with world leaders and share her insights on environmental issues.

I met the president of Kenya, I told him about me, and we discussed the environment.

Karen’s passion and achievements have garnered international attention, making her a rising star in the global environmental movement.

She is the Founder & General Director of the Karen Forte Environmental Conservation Foundation, an organization dedicated to promoting tree planting and environmental mentorship through initiatives like “Trees for Birthday” and the “Virtual Forest Program.”

Her impressive work has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Green Kids Award in Kenya, the UK’s MTM Environmental Excellence Award, and the Spain Eco Project award.

She has also been acknowledged for her “Eco-Project” in the Little Mister and Miss Kenya, Little Prince and Princess of Africa, and Mini Miss United World contests, and serves as a Brand Ambassador for Justdiggit, a Netherlands-based organization committed to re-greening degraded landscapes.

Now, Karen is preparing to share her inspiring story and vision at the Northern Forum on Sustainable Development, where she will be a featured speaker at the “Sister Ecosystems: New Generation Environmental Initiatives” session on September 25th.

This session, organized by the Andrey Melnichenko Charity Foundation, aims to showcase the work of young environmental activists from around the world and foster collaboration in addressing climate change and its impact on permafrost thaw.

The Melnichenko Foundation, dedicated to promoting zero hunger, quality education, and climate action, recognizes the importance of empowering young voices and promoting nature-based solutions within the global climate agenda.

Karen’s participation exemplifies the Foundation’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of environmental leaders.

Karen’s ambition extends beyond her current projects. She dreams of opening a plastic recycling factory one day, further contributing to a greener future for Kenya and the world.

“I would like to do more for the environment,” she says. “It makes me feel so happy and the environment happy.”

Karen Wanjiru Kimani’s initiatives demonstrate that even the tiniest seed, when nurtured with passion and determination, can grow into a powerful force for positive change.

As she takes the stage at the Northern Forum on Sustainable Development, Karen’s inspiring journey is fosters hope and inspiring action for a more sustainable future.

The 2024 Africa Shared Value and ESG Summit is set to convene in Nairobi, Kenya, on October 24th and 25th, gathering business leaders from across the continent to tackle critical issues essential for a sustainable future in Africa.

Building on the legacy of the Africa Shared Value Leadership Summit, established in 2017, this year’s event emphasizes the urgent need for social and business transformation, positioning itself as a catalyst for impactful change and empowering leaders to actively shape the continent’s future.

A Platform for Transformation

Organized by Shift Impact Africa and hosted by Shared Value Africa and ESG Africa, the summit will champion the Shared Value business management concept, illustrating the synergy between business success and societal advancement.

As a vital platform for collaboration and growth, the summit will facilitate knowledge exchange and inspire innovative thinking among industry leaders. Participants will be encouraged to challenge traditional approaches, gain new insights, and develop bold ideas that can drive meaningful change across Africa.

Focusing on Key Areas for Progress

Under the theme “Empowering Africa’s Future,” the summit will concentrate on five critical areas: economic growth, climate action, inclusive health, gender equality, and technology as a tool for progress. This gathering aims to forge essential connections and encourage the sharing of expertise across various sectors.

Over two days, attendees will engage in impactful discussions, sharing best practices and lessons learned to better navigate the evolving business and societal landscapes.

Engaging and Informative Sessions

The summit’s agenda features a diverse range of activities, including keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, fireside chats, and masterclasses—all designed to highlight the scalable impact of value creation. Sponsorship opportunities are available for organizations looking to enhance their brand visibility and position themselves as leaders in thought and action within the Shared Value community.

Seize the Moment

As the event approaches, early bird sponsorship rates are being offered, providing extended marketing exposure and engagement opportunities leading up to the summit.

Partnerships for Impact

The collaboration with Safaricom exemplifies the summit’s commitment to societal transformation in East Africa. Peter Ndegwa, CEO of Safaricom, stated, “Our ongoing partnership with SVA underscores our dedication to making a meaningful impact on the ‘Africa we want.’ We are excited to contribute our transformative agenda to this prestigious event.”

Returning to the Radisson Blu in Nairobi, with Kenya Airways as the official travel partner, the 2024 Summit promises to be a pivotal event where leaders will define the path toward inclusive business prosperity.

Tiekie Barnard, CEO of Shift Impact Africa, emphasized the significance of the summit, stating, “This event will unite organizations and thought leaders to share invaluable insights, showcasing the vital link between value creation, ESG, and long-term sustainability.”