As Kenya moves forward in the development of the country’s climate action and environmental protection strategies, the country has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening cooperation with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
During a meeting held on 5/3/2026 in his office, the Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary, Festus K. Ng’eno, hailed UNDP’s assistance in the form of capacity building, financial support, as well as the provision of technical assistance to the country.
The meeting brought to the fore the importance of consultation in the development of strategies in the field of environment and climate change in the country. According to the PS, the government has been able to work effectively with the organization in the development of the country’s strategies in the field of environment and climate change.
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According to Dr. Ng’eno, UNDP Kenya is a partner and key in supporting the government in implementing critical environment and climate programs across the nation. He said that the climate and environment issues are becoming more complex and thus require flexible programming that can adapt to emerging issues while remaining focused on supporting the government priorities. Dr. Ng’eno shared that the State Department’s programs are focused on supporting key climate and environment frameworks in Kenya.
He noted that these frameworks include the Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC), the Long-Term Strategy for Climate Change, and the forthcoming National Climate Change Action Plan IV (NCCAP IV). He highlighted that continued support and collaboration from development partners in implementing these frameworks will be crucial for their success.
The PS stated that ongoing programs in supporting measures to address issues related to water levels in lakes in Rift Valley Province, implementing the National Climate Change Action Plan (NCCAP), and creating carbon markets have been made possible through support from UNDP. Dr. Ng’eno stipulated that reforms in the forestry sector are underway to strengthen forest governance and conservation.
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In carbon markets, the Principal Secretary disclosed that Kenya has already established legal and regulatory frameworks and has developed a national carbon registry. However, he added that further support is needed to operationalize the Designated National Authority, which will help unlock climate finance opportunities for Kenya.
Dr. Ng’eno also pointed out progress in the forestry sector, where the government has embarked on a bold move to implement the 15 Billion Tree Growing Initiative, which seeks to enhance forest cover in Kenya. Other environmental priorities include the promotion of a circular economy, establishment of Material Recovery Facilities, and regeneration of the Nairobi River.
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The ministry is preparing to review the Environmental Management and Coordination Act once the review of the National Environment Policy is completed.In addition, the government aims at eliminating asbestos from public institutions, among other measures to enhance environmental safety and health in Kenya.
The meeting was attended by a delegation from the United Nations Development Programme, led by Jin Zhang (Evaluation Specialist), accompanied by Solomon Alemu and Hugh Gibbon (Consultant), and Deputy Director for Climate Change Michael Okumu and other officials from the State Department.
