As part of their state visit to Kenya, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands attended the Water, Peace, and Climate Security Conference in Naivasha on Wednesday, March 19, 2025.
The conference brought together key stakeholders to discuss the critical links between water security, peacebuilding, and climate change. It aimed to highlight the challenges of water scarcity, pollution, and mismanagement—factors that often contribute to conflicts and hinder sustainable development.
During the event, the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) showcased their Environmental Soldier Program, which positions soldiers at the forefront of environmental security efforts. A key component of the program is tree planting, aligning with Kenya’s National Tree Planting Campaign, which targets the planting of 15 billion trees by 2032.
Also featured was the oil jiko, an innovative and eco-friendly cooking solution developed by the Kenya Army Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (KACEME). By using oil as a fuel source, the jiko reduces reliance on traditional firewood and charcoal, helping to combat deforestation and improve air quality.
Additionally, the Ministry of Defence (MOD) highlighted its role in disaster response in collaboration with other ministries, departments, and agencies. This aligns with Kenya’s Multi-Agency Approach to addressing human security challenges caused by climate-related disasters, such as floods and urban search and rescue operations led by the Disaster Response Battalion (DRB).
Among those in attendance were Kenya’s National Security Advisor, Amb. (Dr.) Monica Juma, the Netherlands’ Defence Minister, Mr. Ruben Brekelmans, and senior officials from both Kenya and the Netherlands.
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