The impacts of climate-related disasters have become a global challenge causing significant economic and social consequences. Climate disasters such as floods, droughts, and landslides have become more frequent, cyclic and severe in Kenya, resulting in the loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of populations. The cost of responding to disasters and the subsequent recovery efforts has also strained the country’s resources. The effects of climate-related disasters in Kenya have highlighted the urgent need for measures to mitigate and adapt to the changing climate patterns. This policy brief outlines the importance of anticipatory action in disaster risk reduction and response and highlights the government and stakeholders’ role in enhancing anticipatory action. This brief also acknowledges the various legislations developed by the government of Kenya for Disaster Management but also takes note of the existing gaps in the implementation of these legislations. The brief, therefore, proposes measures to enhance anticipatory action, including review, development and implementation of key disaster management legislations, the need for interagency cooperation and collaboration between government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and community groups to implement effective anticipatory action strategies with the importance of public awareness campaigns in promoting community resilience and preparedness, the development of early warning systems, establishing contingency plans, providing financial resources for disaster preparedness, and adopting innovative technologies.
