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Category: ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE

  • Tea Agency announces a record Kes. 1.04B Dividend Payout

    The dividends are payable to farmers through their factories, which are the 54 Corporate Shareholders of KTDA Holdings Ltd.

    The dividends are derived from the profits made by KTDA Holdings and its subsidiaries, which include KTDA MS, KTDA Power, Majani Insurance Brokers, Greenland Fedha, Chai Trading Company, TEMEC, Chai Logistics, and Ketepa.

    This financial year also marked the highest amount of money paid to the tea farmers under KTDA management, as they earned a whopping Ksh. 89.21 billion compared to Ksh. 68.22 billion last year.

    While declaring the dividend, KTDA Holdings National Chairman Enos Njeru said: “Our focus is to ensure that every decision and strategy we adopt directly benefits our farmers by increasing their earnings, reducing costs, and improving overall efficiency in the tea value chain where the farmers have invested.”

    On his part, KTDA Group CEO Wilson Muthaura added that KTDA will continue to invest in new technologies and innovations to enhance operational efficiency.

    “As management, we are working with factories to increase efficiency and diversify our products. In the wake of climate change, we are also looking to introduce high-yielding teas to ensure that tea production remains sustainable.”

    The National Chairman applauded continued government support, especially on fertilizer subsidy, which saw farmers this year save Ksh. 900 per bag of 50 kilograms.

  • Regional tourism stakeholders to take lead in environment conservation

    Tourism stakeholders have vowed to take the lead in championing environmentally sustainable initiatives for a thriving tourism business and other economic activities.

    In a two-day-long third edition of the Uganda-Kenya Coast Tourism Conference that ended on Friday in Entebbe, Uganda, players in the tourism sector drawn from Kenya and Uganda underscored the importance of a direct relationship between environment conservation and tourism business.

    Uganda’s Foreign Affairs Minister John Mulimba told the gathering of tourism players that they had a responsibility to protect the environment by adopting practices that not only preserve natural beauty but also enhance the cultural integrity of the communities.

    “Let us remember that our collaboration is not solely about enhancing our tourism sectors; it is about creating jobs that uplift our communities. When we invest in tourism, we invest in the livelihoods of countless individuals’ entrepreneurs, artisans, service providers, and families who depend on this critical industry.” Said the Minister.

    The resolution comes hot on the heels of the Kenya Tourism Board’s (KTB) campaign, One Tourist, One Tree, launched two months ago to rally visitors and Kenyans to plant trees as one of the initiatives toward environmental sustainability.

    The initiative supported by the industry players is a call to travelers to leave a positive legacy by planting a tree, helping to combat climate change, and conserving landscapes, and every tree planted through is a symbol of shared responsibility in the protection of the planet.

    During his address, the Ugandan Minister said there was an urgent need for players in the sector to ensure that as they integrate sustainability into tourism strategies, the same does not come at the expense of ecosystems and cultural heritage

    According to the minister, an inclusive economy through sharing resources for economic livelihoods from tourism proceeds was one of the ways of sustaining the sector.

    The conference also heard that human-wildlife conflict and poverty’s exclusive approach to tourism by overdepending on foreign tourism was a major threat to sustainability and therefore a re-defined strategy to grow the domestic market for the survival of tourism.

    Kenya’s High Commissioner to Uganda, Joash Maangi, expressed his optimism that the Ugandan market for Kenya is going to increase tremendously with elaborate initiatives for a complementary approach in marketing tourism experiences between the two countries.

    In 2023, Kenya received 201,623 visitors from Uganda, improving from 151,121 recorded in 2022, with the High Commissioner disclosing that the expected increase of Kenya Airways flight frequency from Entebbe to Nairobi from four to five times in the immediate future is a clear indication of the traveler growth to Kenya.

    The Movement by road using a national identity card as a travel document, added the High Commissioner, is also a major contributor to the increasing number of Ugandan travelers into Kenya, making it a second-performing market after the USA

    He at the same time called on players in the tourism industry to offer more budget-friendly travel packages to promote regional growth of domestic tourism.

    “There is a need to demystify the myth that tourism is a reserve for foreigners or the rich. Make travel costs affordable to more people. This, however, should not compromise the quality of service,” said the High Commissioner.

    He particularly singled out sporting and cultural events in both countries, such as the recently concluded Elgon Championship Rugby Cup 2024, the WRC Safari Rally, and the upcoming AFCON 2027, as opportunities for affordable packages offered to the Ugandan traveler.

    Kilifi County Deputy Governor Flora Mbetsa Chibule said the county has undertaken efforts towards enhancing eco-tourism offerings, preserving cultural heritage, and improving infrastructure to ensure visitors enjoy seamless and memorable experiences.

    She cited the designation of Gedi Ruins in Malindi as Kenya’s 8th World Heritage Site as a major step towards the sustainability of African culture and heritage. “We are soon going to unveil the newest kid in the block for not only East Africa but the whole of Sub-Saharan Africa! The First Ever Blue Tourism product of its Kind: an underwater museum at Ngomeni, Kilifi County,” disclosed the Deputy Governor 

    She continued, “Our two regions are uniquely complementary. Kilifi County’s pristine beaches, historical landmarks, and world-class resorts align seamlessly with Uganda’s adventure tourism, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural richness. Together, we can create travel packages that allow visitors to experience the best of both worlds coastline serenity and inland adventure.”

  • Airasia X Makes Historic Direct Flight from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi

    The maiden AirAsia X flight receives a water salute upon landing at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), Nairobi on Friday evening.

    Kenya’s efforts to attract tourists from Malaysia and the larger Asian market have been greatly boosted after low-cost carrier AirAsia X (AAX) inaugural flight to Kenya touched down at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA).

    The flight from Kuala Lumpur landed Friday evening with 377 travelers signifying a significant milestone in Kenya’s quest to diversify its tourist source markets.

    This development is also expected to strengthen ties between the two countries, boost cultural exchange, and enhance economic collaboration through increased tourism and trade.

    While receiving the flight, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano said that the direct air link affirms Kenya’s growing significance in the global tourism and travel landscape.

    “Kenya is now firmly established as a regional hub and a widely recognized leader in air transport across the continent. We are delighted to have AirAsia X consider Kenya as a partner for its expansion into the African continent. This will greatly contribute to the target that we have of increasing our numbers to 5 million by 2027.

    As a country that prides itself on warm hospitality, Kenya looks forward to welcoming more visitors through this connection and harnessing new opportunities for trade, investment, and tourism cooperation between our two nations,” Miano said.

    She noted that the launch aligns well with Kenya’s commitment to expanding air connectivity, which she identified as vital for attracting global visitors.

    “On this flight, we have received visitors from China, Japan, the Philippines, Singapore, and Australia. This route opens the whole of Pacific Asia, and we are grateful for this. We are actively engaging with more carriers and collaborating with the Ministry of Transport to address bottlenecks that may hinder airlines from launching more routes to Kenya. AirAsia X’s direct flight is a crucial catalyst in this strategy, allowing us to tap into key source markets with more competitive pricing,” the CS stated.

    The airline will operate four weekly flights between the two capital cities, providing a convenient and affordable option for travel between Southeast Asia and East Africa.

    Apart from facilitating travel, the Kuala Lumpur-Nairobi connection will also enable AirAsia X to offer convenient fly-thru options to over 130 destinations in Asia Pacific and Australia. This expanded network will drive traffic and trade between Southeast Asia and East Africa.

    High Commissioner of Malaysia to Kenya, Ruzaimi Mohamad, expressed his excitement about AirAsia X’s inaugural direct flight from Kuala Lumpur to Nairobi. “This new route is a significant milestone in our relations,” he stated. “We are thrilled to witness this direct connection, which will undoubtedly boost the number of tourists, business travelers, and students between our two countries. Strengthening these ties will foster greater understanding and collaboration, driving mutual economic growth.”

    He added, “Malaysia and Kenya share many opportunities for cooperation, and this direct link opens new avenues for partnerships in trade, education, and tourism. I am confident this route will deepen the friendship between our nations and help showcase the unique beauty and culture each has to offer.”

    On her part, Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO June Chepkemei highlighted the flight’s strategic timing, ahead of the peak festive season. She noted that the Asia Pacific region delivered over 320,000 visitors to Kenya in 2023, with Malaysia being one of the fastest-growing source markets.

    “AirAsia X’s entry into Kenya has been a long-awaited development that we have eagerly anticipated. The fact that they have chosen Nairobi as their first destination in Africa, speaks of Kenya’s potential not just as a safari destination, but also a business and investment hub,” Chepkemei said.

    “Recently, KTB and AirAsia X signed a collaborative agreement on enhancing connectivity between Asia and Africa to drive tourism in both regions. This direct flight is the first step in that journey and takes us closer to realizing the full potential of this partnership. We look forward to welcoming travelers on this route to experience Kenya’s diverse and authentic attractions,” she added.

    The partnership between AirAsia X and KTB includes joint promotional activities, coordinated marketing campaigns, and collaborative efforts to enhance travel experiences, leveraging the strengths of both organizations to attract more tourists and stimulate economic growth.

  • Conversations on Climate Adaptation and Resilience Ahead of Landmark Conference

    Conversations on Climate Adaptation and Resilience Ahead of Landmark Conference

    L-R: Kennedy Ouma, Faith Ngige, Sellah Bogonko, Co-Founder and CEO Jacob’s Ladder Africa Dr. Jeremiah Rogito, Specialist Food and Land Use, Anne Kamonjo, Dr. Jackson Koimbori

    Jacob’s Ladder Africa with Civil society key partners in collaboration with the Government of Kenya, through the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry hosted its first series of thematic pre-convening events in the build-up to Africa Climate Summit focusing on Climate Adaptation and Resilience and Youth and Children Inclusion.

    These convenings underscore Africa’s resolve to fulfill and measure the commitments made during the 2023 Africa Climate Summit in Nairobi, marking a pivotal moment in climate accountability.

    The event brought together leaders, experts, and organizations dedicated to building a sustainable, resilient Africa for the future.

    Sellah Bogonko, Co-Founder and CEO of Jacob’s Ladder Africa stated that the ground-breaking Africa Climate Summit (ACS) represented a new chapter in Africa’s journey of owning and steering the conversation on the unique climate change solutions that Africa can offer to the world.

    It was also an opportunity to set in motion partnerships and solutions that would greatly impact the lives of African youth.

    “If implemented, the outcomes of ACS will significantly change the trajectory of Africa. For this reason, Jacob’s Ladder Africa, in conjunction with partners in the private sector, civil society organizations, and the Government of Kenya, has led the charge to take stock of the progress made since ACS, in February 2025, along with key thematic convening taking place prior,” she further reiterated.

    The Climate Adaptation and Resilience convening addressed urgent needs such as sustainable agriculture, climate-resilient urban infrastructure, and drought preparedness. These topics reflect the challenges identified by African leaders, where rapid urbanization and climate instability exacerbate vulnerabilities.

    The Youth and Children Inclusion in Climate Action convening on November 5 will gather youth leaders and children from across the country.

    The event offers a platform for the younger generation to hold leaders accountable and push for their active involvement in climate policy and action, a commitment emphasized in the Nairobi Declaration.

    As Africa prepares for ACS@ONE in February 2025, these events are a call to action for stakeholders across sectors to sustain the momentum generated at the Africa Climate Summit.

    ACS@ONE will be a landmark moment to reflect on Africa’s strides in climate action and to inspire continuous, tangible progress.

  • This is why Tourism industry should tailor short city tours

    Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Rebecca Miano wants Kenyan travel operators to package short city tours suited for travelers on stopovers with the rollout of transit visas.

    She said the government’s recent introduction of Transit and Long Connection Travelers’ Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is a major boost to short tours applicable to visitors on long layovers.

    Miano spoke during the launch of the Coast Tourism Circuit Tembea Kenya campaigns, in Mombasa, which marked another milestone in Kenya’s ongoing commitment to expand and open up tourist destinations for visitors.

    She further disclosed overwhelming requests for digital nomad permits especially from expatriates that allow those who wish to live and work remotely in the country.

    “As we continue to unveil various tourism circuits to open up new travel opportunities, I encourage our partners to tap into the opportunities provided by the government to spur travel.” stated the CS.

    While underscoring the government’s commitment to reinvigorate the tourism sector, the CS announced a collaborative approach with other arms of government besides the private sector.

    She disclosed that already her ministry with that of Internal Security is in collaboration to beef up the Tourist Police Unit for adequate security at tourism sites, especially in the upcoming festive season.

    “Am already in discussion with the Attorney General to find ways of addressing issues that have slowed wedding events in the country by the foreigners,” said the CS 

    To further boost Kenya’s tourism experiences by hospitality facilities, the CS while calling on the need to engage trained personnel to work in the hotel industry, announced plans to make operational the Ronald Ngala Utalii College in Kilifi County.

    She said her ministry was keen on working closely with the private sector to address emerging issues that have an impact on the tourism business calling on the need for quarterly meetings towards this end.

    The Coast Tourism Circuit launch marks the third circuit under the Tembea Kenya campaign to be launched, following the successful unveiling of the Western Circuit in Kisumu during Tourism Week and the North Rift Circuit in Eldoret. This campaign aims to promote domestic and international tourism by showcasing Kenya’s diverse attractions and experiences.

    Kenya Tourism Board (KTB) CEO, June Chepkemei, underscored the importance of events, festivals, and sports in increasing visitation to the destinations.

    “Events have increasingly become key pullers of visitors who are now more interested in getting immersed in experiences. This is the trend we are keen on tapping into,” said the CEO.

    The growing demand for weddings, said the CEO points to the potential to position Kenya as a wedding destination.

    “We are positioning Kenya’s coast as an ideal wedding destination to meet growing demand. We want to leverage weddings, adventure, and water sports to drive traffic to the coast, complementing our offerings of festivals, events, and sports. Through Tembea Kenya, we’re calling on Kenyans and our international visitors to explore and discover the exceptional diversity within our borders.” Said Chepkemei In 2020.

    Kenya Tourism Board in partnership with tourism stakeholders in the Kenyan Coast unveiled the ‘Magical Kenya’ sub-brands targeting the Coast region. The seven unique sub-brands are themed around different areas on the Coast, including Mombasa, Malindi, Lamu, Tana River, Diani, Watamu, and Tsavo. This introduction was seen as a boost to the Coast economy which relies largely on tourism

  • Fay Bistro in Kilimani, indefinite shut down due to Noise Violation Complaints

    Fay Bistro in Kilimani, indefinite shut down due to Noise Violation Complaints

    EnvironmentCS, Aden Duale announced the club’s closure after accusations of rampant noise.

    In a statement seen by Kenyaleo.co.ke, Duale directed the National Environment Management Agency(NEMA) Director General and the agency’s police officers to visit the club and enforce the ban.

    ‘’I have ordered the immediate closure of Fay’s Bistro club in Kilimani, Nairobi, for noise violations.  The NEMA Director General, accompanied by the NEMA Police unit, is on-site to enforce the closure,’’ Duale stated.

    NEMA DG, Mamo Mamo voiced his concern, ‘’The authority draws your attention to the numerous improvement notices served to you including the improvement notices dated 19th, June 2024 and 14th August 2024 and inspection by NEMA environment inspectors following numerous complaints on varied dates reported by the general public regarding noise pollution from the operation of your business hence denying neighboring fraternity the right to a clean and healthy environment as enshrined in Article 42 of the constitution and section 3 of the environment management and coordination act of 1999.’’

    The club became a subject of social media discussions after Nairobi County Environment Chief Officer Geofrey Moisira was blocked in a video seen circulating all over the social media handles by an alleged owner when he went to intervene following an uproar from adjacent residents according to the officer claiming that there have been continuous complaint reports.

    CS Duale has been previously and recently been persistent in sounding warnings to other clubs within residential areas that are notorious for noise disturbances.

    He added that their impunity would not be tolerated.

    ‘’Let this serve as a stern warning to all clubs operating in residential areas: any that continue to play loud music will face the same action. This impunity will not be tolerated!’’

    Moisira, in a video clip is seen saying that residents in the surrounding area had lodged complaints with his office over noise pollution that emanated from the club, making it hard for them to sleep at night.

    ‘’These neighbors have been complaining and I decided to come in person to witness for myself. If you check it’s already midnight and the decibels are almost 80, that is too loud,’’ Moisiria insists.

    He adds, ‘’The owner has been saying that we are against them, let’s go tell them to switch off so that the neighbors can sleep.’’

    In the same shared clip, Mosiria arrived with the media contingents to document and record the series of events and when he arrived at the entrance to the club, he was met by a hostile lady who tried to hide her face nor would neither listen to him nor allow him to gain entry, claiming that the County Officer was doing wrong to record his entry.

    The recently transferred Chief officer from the Health sector to the Environment has been caught in push-and-pull wars with the City from Hospitals and now club owners and churches, construction sites, and now especially those within residential areas that play loud music when people are asleep.

    The recent move of Mosiria where he faced a hostile environment is when he pushed into Quiver Lounge Kilimani causing it to completely ban loud music playing in a loud-press release shared the following day.

    Duale’s move to order the shutdown of the club could potentially raise eyebrows over what could likely be interpreted as stepping in on the roles of the county government.

    CS Duale has consistently been sending warnings on the same after the issue escalated which touches his ministry.

  • Majority of Kenyans call for Government Investment in Climate Resilient Infrastructure, Wind and Solar energy,

    Majority of Kenyans call for Government Investment in Climate Resilient Infrastructure, Wind and Solar energy,

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    Majorities of Kenyans support greater investments in climate-resilient infrastructure and wind and solar energy in order to respond to changing weather patterns and environmental degradation.

    The latest Afrobarometer survey reveals.
    More than four in 10 citizens say they have personally adapted to changes in climate by
    changing the crops they plant or the food they eat, the hours they work, and their water consumption patterns.

    A majority of Kenyans say they are familiar with the concept of climate change. Most
    citizens who are aware of the phenomenon blame human activities as its main cause
    and say urgent action is needed from the Kenyan government as well as developed
    countries.

    Key findings
    ▪ Most Kenyans want their government to invest in climate-resilient infrastructure (82%) and solar and wind energy (62%) in response to changing weather patterns and
    environmental degradation.

    Three-fourths (74 percent) say the government should put more pressure on rich countries to provide resources to support Kenya’s response to climatic changes.
    A slimmer majority (54%) support a ban on cutting down trees for firewood or
    charcoal, while fewer than half say the government should require families to
    switch to cookstoves that use cleaner fuels such as electricity or gas (42%) and
    promote the use of taxis and buses that run on electricity (36%).
    ▪ In substantial numbers, Kenyans say they have adapted to changing weather
    patterns by reducing their livestock or changing their grazing patterns (45% of those who keep livestock), reducing their water consumption or changing their water
    source (45%), changing their work hours (43%), or changing the crops they plant or
    the food they eat (42%) (Figure 2).
    ▪ About six in 10 Kenyans (61%) say they have heard of climate change (Figure 3).
    ▪ Among those who have heard of climate change:
    More than four-fifths (82%) believe human activity is the main cause or acontributing factor (Figure 4).
    Strong majorities support measures to limit climate change by the Kenyan government (72%) and rich countries (81%), and most say that wealthy countries have an obligation to help Kenya fund its response to climate change (83%).

    Afrobarometer is a pan-African, non-partisan survey research network that provides reliable data on African experiences and evaluations of democracy, governance, and quality of life. Nine survey rounds in up to 42 countries have been completed since 1999. Round 10 surveys were launched in January 2024. Afrobarometer’s national partners conduct face-to-face interviews in the language of the respondent’s choice.

     

  • National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism Launched to Enhance Biodiversity Conservation in Kenya

    National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism Launched to Enhance Biodiversity Conservation in Kenya

    PS. Festus K. Ng’eno State Department Environment and Climate Change, During the launch of National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism in Serena Hotel Nairobi.

    National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism Launched to Enhance Biodiversity Conservation in Kenya

    The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry (MoECCF) proudly announces the launch of Kenya’s National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism (NBCM), a vital initiative aimed at bolstering the conservation and sustainable use of the nation’s rich and diverse biological resources.

    The conservation of biodiversity is not only a constitutional mandate, as outlined in Chapter 5, Article 6(1) of the Constitution of Kenya, but also a critical element of Kenya’s Vision 2030, which underscores the importance of sustainable natural resource management for long-term economic growth and livelihood improvement. As a committed party to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and several other international environmental treaties, Kenya has consistently worked towards fulfilling its obligations to conserve biodiversity for people and nature. The National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan (NBSAP) has been central to these efforts, guiding national actions to protect and sustain Kenya’s natural heritage. However, the effective coordination of biodiversity conservation efforts among various stakeholders has been a persistent challenge.

    The newly established NBCM addresses this challenge by providing a robust framework for the coordination and collaboration of state and non-state actors involved in biodiversity conservation across the country. The mechanism will facilitate the alignment of biodiversity conservation goals, policies, and practices at the national, county, and community levels, ensuring a unified approach to protecting Kenya’s natural resources.

    The process of establishing the NBCM has been highly consultative, involving over 60 participants from various sectors, including state and non-state actors, indigenous peoples and local communities, youth, the private sector, academia, and research institutions. This inclusive approach ensured that diverse perspectives and expertise were integrated into the design and structure of the mechanism. This will also be important for the successful implementation of the Kunming Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

    The development of the NBCM was supported by a broad range of partners, including the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), Conservation International, The Nature Conservancy, WWF-Kenya, African Wildlife Foundation, among others. Their contributions were invaluable in shaping a mechanism that is both comprehensive and responsive to the needs of all stakeholders involved in biodiversity conservation in Kenya.

    The NBCM will be governed by a multi-tiered structure, including a National Steering Committee (NSC), Technical Advisory Committee (TAC), and Thematic Working Groups (TWGs). The NSC, composed of Principal Secretaries, key development partners, and representatives from various sectors, will provide strategic guidance and oversight. The TAC will offer technical advice, while the TWGs will focus on implementing specific biodiversity targets aligned with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework.

    A Secretariat, under the guidance of the MECCF, will coordinate NBCM activities, ensuring effective communication, sustainable resource mobilization, benefits to communities are mainstreamed at household level, effective monitoring and evaluation and the alignment of national biodiversity efforts with international commitments.

    Speaking at the launch, Dr. Eng. Festus Ng’eno, Principal Secretary, State Department for Environment and Climate Change, Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry emphasized the importance of coordinated efforts in biodiversity conservation:

    “The launch of the National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism marks a significant milestone in Kenya’s conservation journey. It is a clear demonstration of the country’s commitment to safeguarding its natural heritage through collaboration and strategic alignment across all sectors. The Ministry is proud to support this initiative, which will undoubtedly strengthen our collective capacity to address the challenges facing biodiversity today.”

    Innocent Kabenga, Kenya Country Representative of the International Union for  Conservation of Nature (IUCN) affirmed the organization’s continued support:

    “As we move forward, IUCN will continue to work closely with the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, as well as with other stakeholders, to ensure that the NBCM is not just a coordination mechanism, but a dynamic and effective platform that drives real change on the ground. We will leverage our expertise, networks, and resources to support the NBCM’s goals towards supporting the implementation of the National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.”

    Nancy Githaiga, African Wildlife Foundation (AWF), Kenya Country Director reiterated AWF’s commitment: “African Wildlife Foundation supports the National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism which is founded on the whole-of-government, whole -of -society approach. By enhancing collaboration with various state and non-state actors and aligning our efforts with global biodiversity targets, we are not only enhancing our strategies but also ensuring that our natural resources are protected for current and future generations”

    Munira Anyonge Bashir HSC, Government Relations and Policy Director at The Nature Conservancy stated: “Kenya’s launch of the National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism is a transformative step in Kenya’s conservation journey, setting a new standard for conservation efforts that benefit both the environment and communities. This achievement aligns with The Nature Conservancy’s dedication to helping nations achieve their biodiversity goals. Our continued support for this coordination enforces our commitment to preserving Kenya’s rich natural heritage for the benefit of all. We are proud to have played a role in this collaborative effort and will continue to support the effective coordination of actions to ensure the enduring protection of our nation’s natural wealth.”

    The NBCM is a significant step forward in Kenya’s journey towards sustainable development, ensuring that the country’s rich biodiversity is conserved for current and future generations. By bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, including government ministries, county governments, civil society, the private sector, academia, local communities, and development partners, the NBCM will play a critical role in safeguarding Kenya’s natural capital.

    The MECCF invites all stakeholders to actively participate in the NBCM, contributing to a concerted national effort to protect and sustainably manage Kenya’s invaluable biodiversity.

  • National Syndemic Diseases Control Council’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Highlighted

    National Syndemic Diseases Control Council’s Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion Highlighted

    The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) Director Dr Ruth Masha.Image: COURTESY
    The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC) Director Dr Ruth Laibon Masha.

    The National Syndemic Diseases Control Council (NSDCC), a state corporation under the State Corporations Act through the National AIDS Control Council Order, appeared before the Senate Committee on National Cohesion, Equal Opportunity, and Regional Integration, chaired by Senator Mohammed Chute of Marsabit. The NSDCC informed the committee that as of June 30, 2024, it has an in-post staff complement of 143 employees from diverse backgrounds.

    The report highlighted that 56% (80) of the employees are male, while 44% (63) are female.

    Gender Composition

    The report emphasized that the NSDCC strives for gender parity, integrating both perspectives in decision-making processes and program implementations. “NSDCC is committed to providing equal opportunities for persons living with disabilities and persons living with HIV, ensuring their needs are integrated into the organization’s daily operations,” part of the statement read.

    The Chief Executive Officer, Ruth Masha, noted that there have been no new recruitments due to government austerity measures over the past five years. Additionally, three persons living with disabilities retired during this period, resulting in a decline in their representation within the workforce. Masha stated, “The NSDCC has prioritized and reserved positions in the approved establishment, subject to the lifting of the recruitment freeze, to ensure that the NSDCC recruits a minimum of three persons with disabilities, aligning with the expectations and guidelines for persons living with disabilities in Kenya.”

    Age Diversity

    The report detailed the age distribution of NSDCC employees aged 27 to 59 years old. It noted that five employees are aged 30 years and below, 37 are between 30-40 years, 67 are between 40-50 years, and 34 are between 51-59 years. “This age diversity ensures a blend of youthful energy and experienced insights, fostering a dynamic and innovative work culture,” Masha said.

    The report also indicated that the NSDCC maintains a balance in community representation and takes affirmative action where necessary to ensure constitutional compliance. Strategies have been implemented to ensure the inclusion and representation of women, persons living with disabilities, and minority groups. “NSDCC adopts inclusive hiring practices to attract a diverse pool of candidates. Whenever vacancies are declared, the NSDCC posts these opportunities in every Regional Office to ensure that Kenyans in devolved structures are aware of and have access to these opportunities,” the report reads.

    The report stated, “The council has ensured that all facilities are accessible to persons living with disabilities. We have developed policies promoting gender equality, non-discrimination, and support for persons living with disabilities. Regular training programs are conducted to raise awareness about inclusivity and diversity.”

    Senator Mohammed Chute urged the department to ensure equitable distribution of funds to enable the organization to run its activities smoothly.

  • Breaking the Silence: Kenya’s Fight for Whistleblower Protection Legislation

    Breaking the Silence: Kenya’s Fight for Whistleblower Protection Legislation

    Participants during the People's Anti-Corruption Summit 2024
    Participants during the People’s Anti-Corruption Summit 2024

    By Melisa Mongina

    Kenya has made little progress in enacting a whistleblower protection law despite numerous attempts from Transparency International-Kenya.

    Speaking in Nairobi on Monday during The People’s Anti-Corruption Summit, Sheila Masinde, Executive Director of Transparency International-Kenya, noted their endless efforts in ensuring that whistleblowers in Kenya get the protection mechanism they deserve.

    “As Transparency International Kenya, we have worked tirelessly in the last 10 or so years to push for a whistleblower protection mechanism in this country and unfortunately we are not yet there. In 2013, we started the process of drafting a whistleblower protection bill. 11 years later, we are yet to see this bill enacted into law. But it is something that we continue to push. Because as we stand now we don’t have an effective mechanism to protect Kenyans who risk life and limb to report cases of corruption or other actual acts of wrongdoing. And this is so critical for us,” stated Sheila.

    She further adds that most whistleblowers, especially those working in the government, are always at risk whenever they report corruption cases and some end up losing their jobs.

    “We have seen the number of corruption cases that we’ve had, and for every case, there’s a whistleblower. Sometimes it doesn’t go well, for many of those whistleblowers. Some of them, especially those in government, end up being demoted. They end up losing their jobs,” added Sheila.

    Sheila emphasized the need to have an institution that can comprehensively protect those whistleblowers who risk their lives when reporting corruption. She also added that the 2022 Ethics and Anti-Corruption Survey shows that many people fear reporting corruption cases due to intimidation.

    “We take this moment to think about the next critical steps towards finally getting in place a whistle-blower protection legislative and also institutional framework because as it is now we don’t even have an institution which can comprehensively protect those who whistle blow cases of corruption. When you look at the last ethics and anti-corruption survey of 2022, many people will not report cases of corruption because they fear acts of reprisal and intimidation. This is what whistleblowers go through and we really need to see how we can change the landscape to make it safe for people to report corruption cases,” emphasised Sheila.

    According to Sheila Roquette, Deputy Mission Director USAID, whistleblowers should be celebrated for their courageous actions in fighting corruption in the country.

    “It is vital to come together to discuss the efforts that can highlight the role of whistleblowing in Kenya to increase awareness on the adverse effects of corruption, the need for reforms and to celebrate the courageous actions of the people who have fought against corruption,” noted Roquette.

    Further, she states the United States consistently supports on strengthening of governance, institutions, and processes in Kenya.

    “The United States has consistently supported the strengthening of governance, institutions, and processes. This includes helping to improve compliance with Kenya’s public financial management laws and supporting reforms to reduce fraud, waste, and abuse at the national and county levels,” stated Roquette.

    Roquette also notes the importance of whistleblower protection legislation in mitigating the risks associated with reporting corruption cases. She adds that such protection and the law of whistleblowers is critical for attracting foreign investment.

    “Lack of whistleblower protection legislation provides a loophole for unscrupulous actors who would pressure subordinates to turn a blind eye or to cover up corrupt acts. The purpose of the legislation is to ensure that whistleblowers don’t face retaliation, harassment, intimidation, or dismissal from employment. In the United States, whistleblower protections have played an important role in rooting out unethical behaviour. It has become part and parcel of the way we operate. And each year I take mandatory whistleblower protection training as a requirement of my job as a civil servant. Enshrining whistleblower protections and laws are also critical to attracting foreign investment,” added Roquette.

    Queenter Mbori, Executive Director of the Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK), highlights the need for press freedom, especially for investigative journalists who endanger lives and work to uncover stories on corruption.

    “The second thing that I would like to highlight is press freedom. There seems to be a direct correlation between press freedom and corruption in this way because as a media, our role is to provide information on public sector corruption particularly where government activities are not very clear. The media, particularly investigative journalists, play a crucial role in exposing corruption,” said Queenter.

    She urges the government and stakeholders to recognise the vital role that whistleblowers play adding that the lack of whistleblowers protection law in Kenya has become a threat to press freedom.

    “I urge all those here present governments and other stakeholders to recognize the very powerful and significant role of whistleblowers by establishing and going by the theme of this year’s day which is a critical tool in the fight against corruption. The lack of a comprehensive whistleblower protection Law in Kenya is a real threat to press freedom and is a matter that we need to collectively address,” emphasised Queenter Mbori.