This archive report was first published on 3 October 2021.
On the first Monday of October every year, the world comes together to observe World Habitat Day, a day to reflect on the state of habitats and the basic right to adequate shelter. This year, Kenya will join the global celebration with a focus on accelerating urban action for a carbon-free world.
According to the United Nations, cities are responsible for around 70 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions, primarily due to transport, buildings, energy, and waste management. To combat this, the day will amplify the global race to zero campaign and UN-Habitat’s ClimateAction4 cities, motivating local governments to develop actionable zero-carbon plans.
Kenya will celebrate World Habitat Day at the Olkaria Geothermal SPA in Naivasha, Nakuru County, which was recently reopened to the public after a year of closure. This event marks a significant step towards promoting sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions in the country.
First observed in 1986 under the theme ‘Shelter is my right’, World Habitat Day has been hosted in Nairobi, Kenya, in the past. This year’s celebration is a reminder that the world has the power and responsibility to shape the future of all cities and towns.
