ASSESSING THE INFLUENCE OF SUSTAINABLE URBAN TRANSPORT LOGISTICS ON CLIMATE CHANGE MITIGATION IN KIBRA, NAIROBI: THE MODERATING ROLE OF THE NATIONAL URBAN DEVELOPMENT POLICY
Brian Ombwori Onchiro - Masters Student in Purchasing and Logistics Management, School of Business and Economics, Department of Management Science, Kisii University, Kenya
Fridah Chepleting (PhD) - Lecturer, Department of Management Science, Kisii University, Kenya
Enock Musau (PhD) - Senior Lecturer, Department of Management Science, Kisii University, Kenya
ABSTRACT
Urban transport in informal settlements like Kibra, Nairobi, is often characterized by high reliance on polluting vehicles, inadequate infrastructure, and limited policy coordination, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions and worsening climate change. The main purpose of this study therefore was to assess the influence of sustainable urban transport logistics on climate change mitigation in Kibra, with a focus on the moderating role of the National Urban Development Policy (NUDP). It was guided by four theoretical frameworks: Sustainable Livelihood Framework (SLF), Urban Political Ecology Theory (UPE), Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and Ecological Modernization Theory (EMT). A mixed-methods research design was utilized. Quantitative data was gathered through standardized questionnaires distributed to 86 participants, comprising key institutional stakeholders that engage in sustainable urban transport and climate change mitigation efforts within Kibra and the broader Nairobi metropolitan area. The study was guided by one general objective and four specific objectives, focusing on evaluating effects of environmental, social, and economic sustainability aspects in transport, as well as examining the role of NUDP in enhancing these effects. The findings revealed that environmental sustainability practices, including the promotion of clean energy vehicles, non-motorized transport, and emission monitoring, significantly contribute to climate change mitigation. Socially sustainable transport, through inclusiveness, safety, and community engagement, and economically sustainable transport, through affordability, employment creation, and access to markets, also positively influence climate change mitigation. Additionally, the National Urban Development Policy was found to strengthen the impact of sustainable transport practices on climate change mitigation. The study recommended the adoption of integrated sustainable transport practices that are environmentally friendly, socially inclusive, and economically empowering, supported by robust policy frameworks. Authorities and transport operators should prioritize green transport solutions, inclusive planning, and innovative economic interventions, while ensuring full operationalization of NUDP to guide sustainable urban mobility.