National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism Launched to Enhance Biodiversity Conservation in Kenya

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.