On 14th March 2025, the Department of Diplomacy and International Studies, in collaboration with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Regional Office (Kenya and Somalia missions), successfully hosted a high-level panel discussion at MLT 402, University Towers. The event was part of the global commemoration of International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme “Accelerated Action” and focused on the intersection of climate change, migration, and gender, emphasizing the need for inclusive policies that empower women affected by climate-induced displacement.

The discussion aimed to raise awareness by increasing understanding of the gendered impacts of climate-induced migration and the need for targeted interventions while also facilitating a dialogue among experts from IOM, the University of Nairobi, policymakers, and civil society on gender-responsive climate policies and migration frameworks. The panel highlighted how climate change disproportionately affects women, particularly in migration and displacement scenarios, and stressed the importance of gender-sensitive policies to address these challenges. Participants also underscored the need for collaboration among governments, international organizations, and academia to develop effective and inclusive policies. The event provided a platform for meaningful discussions, fostering a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities in addressing the gendered dimensions of climate-induced migration.

A representative from the International Organization for Migration (IOM), Eva Nyang’a, shared valuable insights during the panel discussion. She emphasized, "Climate change is not gender-neutral. Women and marginalized groups often bear the brunt of climate-induced displacement, facing unique vulnerabilities that require targeted, inclusive solutions." Her contributions underscored the urgent need for gender-responsive policies to address these challenges effectively.

As we delve into today’s discussions, it is crucial to recognize that climate change acts as a “threat multiplier.” It amplifies existing vulnerabilities, forcing individuals and communities to migrate in search of safety and sustainability. Yet, migration is not merely an environmental phenomenon; it is deeply intertwined with social, economic, and political dynamics.

In his opening remarks, the Chair of the Department, Prof. Patrick Maluki, shared his perspectives on the discussion. He stated, "For women, the consequences of climate-induced migration are particularly severe. When men migrate to urban centers in search of economic opportunities, women are often left behind to manage households under increasingly harsh environmental conditions. This not only increases their labor burden but also exposes them to heightened risks of health crises, food insecurity, and economic precarity."

Faculty Dean Prof. Jack Odhiambo, in his welcoming remarks, noted, “It gives me great pleasure to be here this morning to be part of this important event that is focused on exploring the intersection of climate change, migration, and gender. Climate change is a topic that needs no introduction because of the weight it bears on humanity. We are living in the era of climate change, and there is no nation that has been spared the vagaries of this phenomenon, which has been rightly described as a threat multiplier as well as an existential threat.”

Vice-Chancellor Prof. Margaret Hutchinson, who graced the occasion, emphasized in her speech,“This discussion is not just about highlighting challenges; it is about solutions. It is about ensuring that migration policies are gender-responsive, that women’s voices are central to climate action, and that institutions like ours play an active role in bridging knowledge gaps and shaping policy responses.

Let this panel discussion serve as a catalyst for deeper engagement, new collaborations, and concrete actions. The University of Nairobi remains committed to fostering dialogue, advancing research, and equipping the next generation with the tools to drive impactful change.”

Some of the panelists included Frantz Celestin, Regional Director for IOM East, Horn, and Southern Africa; Sharon Dimanche, IOM Chief of Mission, Kenya; and Wanja Maina, Executive Director of The Hummingbird Grassroots Centre.