Nairobi: The government is advancing the development of an Integrated Natural Resource Management Policy as part of Kenya Kwanza's environmental conservation initiative. This policy aims to improve the country's forest cover and contribute to the broader goal of mitigating climate change effects.
According to Kenya News Agency, an inter-ministerial committee is currently working on the proposed policy. This effort follows a Presidential Directive emphasizing the conservation and protection of forests, water towers, rangelands, marine ecosystems, and other critical resources for sustainable development.
During the committee's initial deliberations at Harambee House, Deputy Head of the Public Service, Amos Gathecha, stressed the need for a coherent policy to tackle challenges posed by climate change, population growth, and unsustainable resource exploitation due to competing land use interests. Gathecha emphasized the necessity of integrating key sectors such as agriculture, water, energy, environment, and mining, while acknowledging local communities as primary custodians of natural resources. He highlighted the importance of embedding sustainability and resilience through climate adaptation, green growth, and circular economy principles.
Gathecha stated, "This committee has the unique opportunity to shape a transformative policy that secures our natural heritage, strengthens national resilience, and positions Kenya as a leader in sustainable natural resource management."
Principal Secretary for Wildlife in Kenya, Silvia Museiya, also attended the meeting and supported the initiative. She highlighted the strong connection between healthy ecosystems and the tourism sector's growth. Museiya noted that globally recognized integrated resource management practices would help balance conservation efforts with economic growth. "Tourism thrives on healthy ecosystems and biodiversity. A coherent framework will safeguard habitats while promoting sustainable livelihoods for our people," she remarked.
The committee's deliberations aim to produce a comprehensive Integrated Ecosystem-Based Natural Resource Management Policy that aligns with national priorities, international commitments, and incorporates input from all stakeholders.