Mithika Mwenda

Dr. Mithika Mwenda is a leading figure in Africa's climate justice movement. As co-founder and executive director of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance, Mwenda has overseen the growth of a network comprising more than 1,000 African organizations dedicated to influencing climate change policies at both national and global levels. The alliance, based in Kenya, includes nongovernmental organizations, grassroots groups, trusts, foundations, indigenous communities, farmers, community-based organizations, and religious organizations.

Prior to establishing the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance, Mwenda served as climate change officer with the All Africa Conference of Churches and Climate Network Africa. He also contributed to various governance, human rights, and democracy organizations in Kenya.

Mwenda holds a degree in education from Moi University, where he was active in student leadership. He earned a Master of Science in public policy analysis from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and pursued doctoral studies at the University of the Witwatersrand, School of Governance. His civic engagement includes serving as co-convener of the National Convention Executive Council, which played a role in Kenya's constitutional reform process.

Under Mwenda's direction, the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance has played a significant role in shaping climate legislation and policy across Africa. Mwenda has facilitated stakeholder consultations among government, private sector, and civil society leaders, contributing to the enactment of Kenya's Climate Change Act by Parliament. The alliance's research, advocacy, and campaigns have influenced policies in several African governments, the Pan African Parliament, and the African Union. Mwenda also contributed to the establishment of the African Coalition for Sustainable Energy and Access, which promotes renewable energy and supports the African Renewable Energy Initiative in delivering clean energy to underserved communities.

Mwenda has received international recognition for his work, including the Sierra Club's Earth Care Award for contributions to environmental protection and conservation. He has been named among the 100 most influential people in climate change policy by Apolitical.co and was included in The Independent's Climate 100 List. Apolitical.co has highlighted his advocacy in encouraging support for environmental initiatives in the global south.

In addition to his policy work, Mwenda is a public speaker and author, frequently addressing audiences at major events such as the Conference on Climate Change and Development in Africa. He has co-authored publications on climate policy, including "Carbon Trading in Africa." Mwenda represents African civil society in the World Bank Forest Carbon Partnership Facility committee and chairs the Collaboration Platform of Climate Research for Development in Africa. His work underscores the intersection of environmental advocacy and social justice, emphasizing the need to address inequalities exacerbated by climate change.