Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry

Today, I joined fellow Principal Secretaries for the third monthly meeting of PSs chaired by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service Mr. @koske_felix, at the Kenyatta International Convention Centre. The meeting provided a valuable platform for stock-taking on government programmes and strengthening inter-agency coordination as guided by the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA). Preparations are in top gear as Kenya gets ready to host the global observance of Desertification and Drought Day in partnership with the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification under the theme “Rangelands: Recognize. Respect. Restore.” At the same time, preparations are also underway for the 11th Our #OceanConference to be held in Mombasa County and Kilifi County, focusing on advancing a sustainable blue economy, strengthening marine protection, and addressing climate change under the theme “Our Ocean, Our Heritage, Our Future.” The engagement further strengthened collaboration across sectors to ensure that environmental sustainability remains central to Kenya’s development pathway under BETA. #DeliveringThePlan #ServiceDelivery #ClimateAction

Beyond distribution, the Ministry is investing in enhanced seedling production and climate-smart farming practices. In partnership with the Kenya Forest Service, farmers will also... Read more 👇🏽 👇🏽 facebook.com/share/1NPWWFdb… #TreeGrowingCampaign #15BillionTrees #ClimateActionKE

The initiative reflects the Government’s commitment to empowering farmers while advancing environmental restoration. More than 157,000 seedlings have already been distributed to over 15,000 farmers through 32 cooperative societies, improving household incomes.

Government’s renewed effort to promote sustainable agriculture and strengthen rural livelihoods gained momentum today as the CS for @Environment_Ke, Dr. @DeboraBarasa, E.G.H., flagged off the distribution of coffee and avocado seedlings.

In Pictures: At Gacharage Block, the tree-growing exercise is actively underway, with teams on the ground carrying out marking and pitting in preparation for planting. This critical step lays the foundation for successful tree establishment, reinforcing ongoing efforts towards ecosystem restoration and sustainable landscape management. The activity is being implemented under the Tree Establishment and Livelihood Improvement Scheme (TELIS), which integrates environmental restoration with community empowerment. Through TELIS, local communities are actively engaged in tree establishment activities while benefiting from livelihood support, including income opportunities and capacity building. The scheme under the @MauForest_iclip patronized by @EnviClimateC_Ke Principal Secretary @Eng_F_Ngeno not only accelerates forest recovery but also enhances household resilience, making conservation a shared and sustainable endeavor. #LindaMauBoreshaMaisha #MFC_ICLIP #JazaMiti #15BillionTreesBy2032

Eldoret–Iten Water Fund Records Major Gains as Kenya Eyes Long-Term Sustainability The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience as the Eldoret–Iten Water Fund enters a critical transition phase toward becoming an independent trust. Speaking during the 4th Project Steering Committee hybrid meeting, Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ngeno, said the Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded project has recorded significant progress three years into implementation. The PS noted that the initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, is now focused on establishing strong governance and legal structures, alongside mobilizing a USD 3 million endowment fund to ensure long-term sustainability. “The Eldoret-Iten Water Fund is transitioning into a fully-fledged Water Fund Trust that will guarantee continuity and impact for generations.” The project recently received a one-year no-cost extension through the International Fund for Agricultural Development on behalf of the GEF, allowing stakeholders to consolidate gains and strengthen institutional frameworks. Dr. Ngeno highlighted several milestones achieved under the programme, including the planting of 1.7 million trees with an 80 percent survival rate across forests, riparian zones, wetlands, and farms. The project has also supported clean energy adoption through the installation of over 500 improved cookstoves, helping reduce pressure on forest resources. In addition, youth empowerment and livelihood diversification have been central to the initiative. Over 800 modern beehives have been produced by trained youth, while others have embraced drone technology for watershed monitoring across Kenya and the wider East African region. “These achievements reflect innovation, community ownership, and measurable impact in watershed restoration,” he said. The Principal Secretary noted that the Water Fund model is gaining traction as a scalable solution for ecosystem restoration across Africa. He cited the success of the Upper Tana–Nairobi Water Fund, established under GEF 6, which covers the Aberdare and Mount Kenya ecosystems, and the ongoing Eldoret–Iten Water Fund under GEF 7, which focuses on the Cherangany, Elgeyo, and North Mau landscapes. Plans are also underway to launch a new Water Fund under GEF 8 targeting the Yala and Nyando river basins. Dr. Ngeno commended partners including The Nature Conservancy and IFAD for advancing the model, noting that collaboration between public and private sectors has been key to its success. As the project moves into its next phase, the government is prioritizing the expansion of restoration efforts and farmer support. Currently, over 43,000 farmers have developed farm-specific action plans, while 500 kilometres of riparian land and 536 hectares of wetlands are under restoration. The government aims to double riparian restoration to 1,000 kilometres and expand wetland rehabilitation across the entire project area. Dr. Ngeno also lauded county governments for exceeding their co-financing target of USD 15 million and called on partners to continue contributing resources to sustain the Fund. The Water Fund initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader environmental agenda, including the ambitious plan to grow 15 billion trees by 2032 under President William Ruto. The PS emphasized that strong partnerships between government, communities, and the private sector are critical to achieving long-term water security and climate resilience. He further commended the integration of Indigenous communities through Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) processes, noting that inclusive approaches have led to lasting and impactful outcomes. Click on the link for more facebook.com/share/p/1BfYT1…

Honoured to have joined the Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, Mr. Felix Koskei, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa and my colleague PS for Forestry Gitonga Mugambi today at Kaimosi Agricultural Training Centre in Nandi County, where we were graciously hosted by H.E. Governor Stephen Sang, for the handing over of Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) grants to farmer producer organizations. This initiative is a strong testament to the power of partnerships in advancing climate-smart agriculture, empowering communities, and strengthening livelihoods at the grassroots. As the State Department, we remain committed to supporting farmer-led enterprises, promoting sustainable land use, and accelerating the restoration of our landscapes under the 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme. I urge all beneficiary organizations to utilize these grants with accountability and innovation to drive value addition, enhance productivity, and contribute to climate resilience. Together, we are building a greener, more resilient, and economically empowered Kenya. #ClimateAction #SustainableAgriculture #BETA #15BillionTrees

Climate Action at the Grassroots: Koskei Presides Over FAO Grants in Nandi The Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, @koske_felix, today led the handing over of Forest and Farm Facility (FFF) grants to farmer producer organizations in Nandi County, in a ceremony that underscored Kenya’s push for climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and grassroots economic transformation. The event, held at Kaimosi Agricultural Training Centre, brought together senior government officials, including Cabinet Secretary Dr. @DeboraBarasa, Nandi Governor, H.E. Stephen Sang, Principal Secretaries Dr. Eng. @Eng_F_Ngeno (Environment and Climate Change) and @GMugambi_CBS (Forestry), KFS @CCF_Kenya Alex Lemarkoko, @FAOKenya Country Representative, @ZimudziFarayi alongside development partners, and local farmers. Speaking during the Event Hon. Koskei emphasized the need for urgent and disciplined action in transforming Kenya’s economy, noting that the country has the resources and human capital required to achieve its development ambitions under Vision 2030. “Kenya has everything it takes to succeed. What remains is not potential, it is execution,” Koskei said, urging stakeholders to move with “urgency, discipline, and unity of purpose” in implementing development programmes. He described the FAO-supported grants as a strategic investment in grassroots enterprises, warning beneficiaries against misuse of funds and calling for accountability at all levels. “These grants are not gifts, but an investment in your future and that of the country. You must ensure transparency and deliver results,” he said, while cautioning against corruption and mismanagement. Koskei also linked the initiative to the government’s flagship 15 Billion Tree Growing Programme, describing it as central to restoring degraded landscapes, creating green jobs, and combating climate change. In her remarks Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa said the grants would empower farmer organizations to expand climate-smart agri-business, invest in value addition, and integrate tree growing into their production systems. “This investment is a vote of confidence in farmers as drivers of economic growth and custodians of natural resources,” she said. CS Barasa noted that the programme aligns with national efforts to restore degraded ecosystems and achieve the target of growing 15 billion trees by 2032. She added that Kenya has already planted approximately 1.4 billion trees, with plans to scale up planting during the current long rainy season. PS Dr. Ng'eno reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening climate resilience through community-led initiatives while PS Gitonga highlighted the importance of partnerships in driving sustainable forest management and rural development. The ceremony included tree planting and the official handover of grant cheques to seven Forest and Farmer Producer Organizations. The FAO grants are expected to boost livelihoods in Nandi County while contributing to national climate goals through enhanced landscape restoration and sustainable land use practices.

Happening Now: @EnviClimateC_Ke PrincipalSecretary, @Eng_F_Ngeno is participating in the handover of Forest Farm Facility (FFF) grants presided over by Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service, @koske_felix at Kaimosi Agricultural Training Centre in Nandi County. The the Hand over ceremony is attended by @Environment_Ke Cabinet Secretary, @DeboraBarasa, Forestry, Principal Secretary Mr. @GMugambi_CBS, @KeForestService CCF Mr. Alex Lemarkoko and representatives from the @FAOKenya, led by Mr. @ZimudziFarayi. The delegation was received by the county leadership, led by @Nandicountygov Governor H.E. Stephen Sang.

Kenya Wins Bid to Host Green Climate Fund Regional Office for Eastern and Southern Africa #Echobox=1774766195-2" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">capitalfm.co.ke/news/2026/03/k…

This afternoon, I joined family and friends in Kiptemo, Kericho County, to pay our final respects to Mama Recho Cherono Siele. Mama Recho, the beloved mother of Dr. Edna Chepkwony, was an industrious woman, a devoted Christian, and a passionate champion of education whose life touched many and left a lasting legacy. May God grant her family comfort, strength, and grace during this difficult time of mourning. May her legacy continue to inspire generations to come, and may her soul rest in eternal peace.

Kenya has secured the bid to host the Eastern and Southern Africa regional office of the Green Climate Fund (GCF). The decision was finalised during the 44th GCF Board meeting held in Songdo, South Korea, from March 25 to 28, 2026. #starkenyanews

Kenya Wins Bid to Host Green Climate Fund Regional Office for Eastern and Southern Africa Kenya has emerged as a regional climate leader following its successful bid to host the Eastern and Southern Africa office of the @theGCF, with Nairobi set to serve as the hub. The decision, finalized at the 44th GCF Board meeting in Songdo from 25–28 March 2026, marks the culmination of a rigorous multi-stage process that began with a strategic shift to decentralize the Fund’s operations. Under Decision B.41/10, the Board approved the establishment of regional offices to enhance geographical balance and operational efficiency. This was followed by a subsequent decision that set out the criteria for selecting host countries, with support from the UNFCCC. A global call for proposals attracted interest from 47 developing countries, including 17 from Africa, underscoring the competitiveness of the process. At its 44th meeting, the Board reviewed detailed assessments and selected Kenya alongside other host countries, cementing Nairobi’s position as a strategic hub for climate finance access and coordination. In the same decision, the GCF Board also announced other regional hosts: Côte d’Ivoire for West, Central, and North Africa; Panama City for Latin America and the Caribbean; and Jordan for Eastern Europe, Central Asia, and the Middle East. The Nairobi office is expected to enhance access to climate finance, strengthen regional partnerships, and accelerate climate action across Eastern and Southern Africa. Dr. Pacifica Ogola, Director of Climate Change and a representative of the Africa Group of Negotiators on the GCF Board, was present at the meeting, further reinforcing Kenya’s influence in global climate finance decision-making.

@theGCF Board #GCFB44 selects Nairobi, Kenya 🇰🇪 as the host for the GCF Africa Regional Office covering East and Southern Africa. As the world's climate fund for developing countries, this brings us closer to the countries we serve for more efficient delivery of #ClimateAction.

𝗞𝗲𝗻𝘆𝗮 𝗦𝗵𝗶𝗳𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗹𝘁𝗵 𝗮𝘀 𝗘𝗻𝘃𝗶𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝘀 𝗖𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗮𝘁 𝗞𝗡𝗣𝗛𝗜 𝗟𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗰𝗵 Health Cabinet Secretary Hon. Aden Duale has said there is major shift in Kenya’s health system, placing preparedness and resilience at the centre of national health security following the launch of the two documents. "Kenya is transitioning from reacting to health crises to anticipating and managing them, positioning KNPHI as the backbone of a coordinated national response through integrated surveillance, laboratories, and emergency operations". The CS spoke this morning at the launch of the Kenya National Public Health Institute (KNPHI), National Strategic Plan (2023–2027) and the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS II 2026–2030) at a Nairobi hotel. Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno said the health of Kenya's people is intrinsically linked to the health of its ecosystems. PS Ng’eno highlighted that robust public health starts with clean air, safe water, and stable climates that are fundamental pillars of his Ministry's mandate. PS Ng’eno said climate change is a "present-day health emergency," citing Kenya's record-breaking hot year in 2024 and continued warming trends. He pointed to recent severe flooding as a direct cause of increased cholera, malaria, and dengue fever outbreaks, while prolonged droughts have doubled food insecurity rates. PS Dr. Ng’eno cited the Kenya Long-Term Low Emissions Development Strategy which suggests that the health sector will bear the brunt of socio-economic losses from climate change by 2030, due to decreased labor productivity and increased mortality from heat stress and climate-sensitive diseases. The PS also drew attention to waste management as a critical, yet often overlooked, area connecting environment and health. Clogged drainage systems from poor waste disposal exacerbate flood risks in urban areas, leading to contaminated water and health crises. He outlined his states department's commitment to a circular economy model for waste management, emphasizing segregation at source, recycling, and composting, alongside stringent regulations to treat waste as a resource. Initiatives like the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations and efforts to upgrade waste facilities to withstand extreme weather underscore this commitment. "The strategic documents launched today, rightly place the "One Health" approach at the forefront of Kenya's health security agenda. This approach recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health". He further cited Rift Valley Fever outbreaks linked to rainfall, cholera following floods, and malaria's spread due to rising temperatures, illustrate how environmentally driven and climate-sensitive health threats necessitate integrated, multisectoral solutions. The PS pledged the State Department readiness to work closely with KNPHI and all stakeholders to advance the One Health agenda and strengthen Kenya’s health security. The launch was attended by Mary Muthoni, Principal Secretary for Public Health and Professional Standards; Neema Kimambo, WHO Acting Country Representative; Paul Kariuki, Chairperson, Kenya National Public Health Institute Board; Kamene Kimenye, Acting Director-General, Kenya National Public Health Institute; alongside representatives from Africa CDC, development partners, and stakeholders from national and county governments.

Waste management is no longer just a public service; it is fast becoming a strategic investment frontier and a critical pillar of the circular economy. At the Waste Management & Circular Economy Side Event, the Kenya Development Corporation (KDC) at the KIICO forum underscored the growing role of innovative financing and smart circular solutions in unlocking sustainable value from waste. Through the panel on “Innovative Financing and Smart Circular Solutions: Leveraging Global Best Practices for Sustainable Waste Management,” KDC highlighted the urgent need to scale investment into integrated waste systems; particularly waste-to-energy solutions that not only address environmental challenges but also generate clean, reliable power. As urbanization accelerates and regulatory frameworks strengthen, the sector presents a compelling case for: •Structured private sector participation •Scalable, bankable projects •Climate-aligned infrastructure investment KDC remains committed to catalyzing partnerships that transform waste into economic opportunity; driving sustainable enterprise growth while advancing Kenya’s green transition. Ultimately, the shift towards a circular economy is a strategic pathway to resilience, innovation and inclusive development. #KIICO #CircularEconomy #WasteManagement #SustainableFinance #GreenGrowth #WasteToEnergy #ClimateAction #KDC #InvestInKenya @KPMG @KenyaCIC @InvestKenya_ @MITIKenya @KeTreasury @Environment_Ke @EnviClimateC_Ke @UNFCCC @WBG_ClimateEnv

Dr. Barasa outlined that Kenya is actively unlocking investment opportunities to support inclusive and resilient economic growth. The conference convened policymakers, investors.. Read more 👇🏽 👇🏽 facebook.com/share/1D9FF5W8… #KIICO2026 #CircularEconomy #SustainableDevelopment

At the conference, the DP noted that the Government is strengthening policy clarity & regulatory certainty to attract investment. He emphasized that closer collaboration btwn the public & private sectors will enhance Kenya’s competitiveness within evolving global economic trends

Kenya has reaffirmed its ambition to become a leading destination for green investment and sustainable industrial growth following the successful 4th Edition of KIICO. The conference was presided over by DP Kithure Kindiki & attended by CS for @Environment_Ke @DeboraBarasa.

Honoured to speak at the launch of the Kenya National Public Health Institute National Strategic Plan (2023–2027) and the National Action Plan for Health Security (NAPHS II 2026–2030), presided over by @MOH_Kenya Cabinet Secretary @HonAdenDuale. Together with my colleague, PS for Public Health and Professional Standards @psmuthoni, partners, and stakeholders, we witnessed the launch of these strategic instruments, signalling a renewed national focus on strengthening health security, prevention, and early detection of public health threats. Public health and environmental sustainability are inseparable. Climate change is no longer a distant threat; it is a present day health emergency, impacting livelihoods through floods, droughts, and rising disease outbreaks. Through initiatives such as the National Climate Change Action Plan III and strengthened sustainable waste management policies, we are advancing a resilient, climate-smart health system that protects communities and ecosystems alike. We continue to champion the One Health Approach, recognizing the critical link between human, animal, and environmental health, and the need for co-ordinated action across sectors. As we move forward, our focus remains on science-driven solutions, innovation, and strong partnerships to safeguard Kenya’s health security and build a more sustainable future for all.