The plan focuses on four key areas, including enhancing early warning capabilities and adaptation measures, promoting a sustainable low-carbon and circular economy, implementing ecosystem restoration through cross-border initiatives, and strengthening governance and institutional frameworks, as outlined in the announcement.,,The East African Community (EAC) has launched a comprehensive ten-year climate strategy to mitigate climate hazards, build regional resilience, and foster sustainable economic development, according to an official statement issued on Friday.,,At the commencement of a four-day regional gathering, EAC Acting Director of Productive Sectors Simon Kiarie explained that the strategy will implement the climate change policy by converting its framework into concrete programs and funding opportunities, facilitating better access to climate financing through viable regional initiatives.,,The plan focuses on four key areas, including enhancing early warning capabilities and adaptation measures, promoting a sustainable low-carbon and circular economy, implementing ecosystem restoration through cross-border initiatives, and strengthening governance and institutional frameworks, as outlined in the announcement.,,Based on the World Meteorological Organization’s 2023 Africa Climate Status report, African nations experience economic losses ranging from 2 to 5 percent of their GDP yearly due to climate disasters, with as much as 9 percent of national budgets allocated to emergency response efforts.,,In East Africa, economic impacts are estimated to range from 2 to 4 percent of GDP annually by 2040.,,The United Nations Climate Change Convention reports that 4.7 million individuals across EAC member countries confront ongoing climate-related challenges, a number anticipated to increase following the potential admission of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Somalia to the community.,,,,,,,,