The Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry has reaffirmed its commitment to environmental governance, sustainability, and the public’s right to a clean and healthy environment.This follows the appearance of Principal Secretary Dr. Eng. Festus Ng’eno before the National Assembly’s Committee on Delegated Legislation, chaired by Hon. Samuel Chepkonga, to present ten key regulations under the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA), Cap. 387.
According to an official statement, the regulations—submitted between March and April 2025—seek to establish stronger legal frameworks for environmental protection across the country. They are backed by explanatory memoranda, regulatory impact assessments, compliance certificates, and records of public participation.
Among the key proposals is the Controlled Substances Regulations, 2025, designed to eliminate ozone-depleting chemicals; the Deposit Bonds Regulations, 2025, which require polluting projects to deposit funds with NEMA to cover potential environmental damage; and the Access to Biological Resources and Benefit Sharing Regulations, 2025, which focus on fair use of Kenya’s natural biodiversity and protection of traditional knowledge.
The Ministry clarified that the Strategic and Integrated Environmental Assessment and Environmental Audits Regulations, 2025 (L.N. No. 71) have been temporarily withdrawn to allow for broader stakeholder consultation.
“These proposed regulations will contribute significantly to sustainable resource use, improved public health, and Kenya’s global climate obligations,” read the Ministry’s statement.
The PS was accompanied by key officials including NEMA Director General Dr. Mamo B. Mamo, Legal Services Head Mr. Erastus Gitonga, Ms. Linah Meeme from the Ministry’s legal unit, Principal State Counsel Ms. Fatma Ali, and Parliamentary Liaison Officer Mr. Omari Rodney.
The Ministry urged the Committee to support the regulations, stating that their implementation would represent a major step toward realizing Kenya’s green development vision.
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