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Kenya Launches National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism (NBCM) to Enhance Conservation Efforts

Kenya boasts a remarkable diversity of flora and fauna, featuring iconic species such as elephants, rhinos, and lions, as well as unique plants found nowhere else on the planet. However, the country is confronted with serious threats to its biodiversity. The Kenya National Bureau of Statistics reports that more than 50% of wildlife habitats are under significant pressure from agriculture, urbanization, and climate change. Therefore, the launch of the National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism (NBCM) is timely, as it aims to implement proactive measures to address these challenges.

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Festus Ng'eno, Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change

In a significant stride towards safeguarding its rich natural heritage, Kenya this August 2024  launched the National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism (NBCM). This initiative aims to enhance the country’s conservation efforts and streamline the management of biodiversity resources across various sectors. As one of the most biodiverse nations in the world, Kenya recognizes that its wildlife and ecosystems are not only vital for environmental health but also crucial for the economy, tourism, and the livelihoods of millions of Kenyans.

Understanding the NBCM

The NBCM serves as a comprehensive framework to integrate biodiversity considerations into national policies and strategies. The mechanism will facilitate collaboration among government agencies, local communities, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and other stakeholders to ensure a coordinated approach to biodiversity management. By creating a centralized system for monitoring and reporting on biodiversity-related activities, the NBCM is expected to improve the effectiveness of conservation initiatives while addressing the challenges posed by climate change, habitat destruction, and human-wildlife conflict.

During the launch, Festus Ng’eno, Principal Secretary at the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change, and Forestry, highlighted the crucial role of the National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism in ensuring the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity for current and future generations.

“This mechanism is essential for supporting the implementation of our national and international commitments,” Ng’eno stated. “It aligns Kenya’s efforts with the goals of the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, which emphasizes the urgent need for action to address biodiversity threats and promote sustainable resource use by 2030.”

The new mechanism seeks to harmonize biodiversity conservation goals, policies, and practices across national, county, and community levels, ensuring a cohesive approach to safeguarding Kenya’s abundant natural resources. It will also serve as a vital tool for aligning the country’s strategies with key global conventions, including the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES), the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

Dr. Erustus Kanga, Director-General of the Kenya Wildlife Service, emphasized the urgent need to tackle the unprecedented challenges currently threatening the country’s biodiversity.

“Climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, and the over-exploitation of natural resources pose significant threats to our biodiversity. This mechanism provides a strategic path for collaboration on solutions that will help mitigate these challenges and strengthen our conservation efforts,” Kanga stated.

The launch of the National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism signifies a crucial step in Kenya’s dedication to biodiversity conservation. This platform fosters enhanced collaboration, strategic planning, and collective action aimed at safeguarding the country’s rich ecological heritage.

With this mechanism now operational, Kenya is well-positioned to make substantial progress toward the objectives outlined in the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework. It ensures the sustainable management of natural resources while balancing environmental protection with the needs of its people.

The Context of Biodiversity in Kenya

Kenya is home to an astounding variety of flora and fauna, including iconic species such as elephants, rhinos, and lions, alongside unique plants found nowhere else on Earth. However, the country faces significant threats to its biodiversity. According to the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics, over 50% of wildlife habitats are under pressure from agriculture, urbanization, and climate change. As such, the NBCM comes at a crucial time when proactive measures are needed to combat these pressures.

The launch of the NBCM is timely, coinciding with the United Nations’ Decade on Ecosystem Restoration (2021-2030), which emphasizes the urgent need to restore and protect ecosystems worldwide. Kenya’s commitment to these global efforts signals its determination to play a leading role in biodiversity conservation on the continent and beyond.

Community Involvement and Local Knowledge

One of the cornerstones of the NBCM is the recognition of the vital role local communities play in biodiversity conservation. Traditional knowledge and practices are crucial in managing natural resources sustainably. The NBCM will promote community engagement and empower local stakeholders, enabling them to participate actively in conservation efforts and decision-making processes.

“We cannot achieve our conservation goals without the involvement of local communities,” said Dr. Francis Karanja, the Director of the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). “Their knowledge, experience, and stewardship of the land are invaluable to our efforts.”

Challenges Ahead

While the NBCM represents a promising step forward, several challenges remain. Ensuring adequate funding, enforcing conservation laws, and addressing the underlying drivers of biodiversity loss, such as poverty and land-use change, will require sustained effort and collaboration. The Kenyan government, along with its partners, will need to advocate for more significant investments in conservation and sustainable development practices to turn the ambitions of the NBCM into tangible results.

Looking Forward

The establishment of the NBCM marks a watershed moment in Kenya’s conservation journey. As the country strives to balance development with ecological integrity, the NBCM could serve as a model for other nations facing similar challenges. By prioritizing biodiversity in national planning and fostering collaboration across sectors, Kenya has the potential to not only preserve its natural treasures but also enhance its resilience to climate change and foster sustainable livelihoods for its people.

“This is just the beginning,” concluded Ngeno. “We are committed to working together, with every stakeholder involved, to ensure that our biodiversity is preserved, protected, and celebrated.”

As Kenya embarks on this vital journey, the world watches with anticipation, hopeful that the NBCM will yield positive outcomes for its diverse ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.

Keywords:Kenya Biodiversity Conservation: National Biodiversity Coordination Mechanism: Ecosystem Management: Sustainable Resource Use: Community Engagement in Conservation

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Safaricom Expands M-PESA Global to Ethiopia, Promoting Cross-Border Financial Inclusion

M-PESA Global enables customers to easily send mobile money from Kenya to Ethiopia, providing a convenient and efficient solution for cross-border fund transfers. This expansion aligns with Safaricom’s larger strategy to boost mobile money adoption and expand its presence in Ethiopia by leveraging its expertise in digital financial services.

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Esther Waititu, Safaricom's Chief Financial Services Officer, said, "This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering innovative financial solutions that meet the dynamic needs of our customers. By enhancing access to cross-border transfers, we are empowering individuals and businesses across the region."

:Safaricom expands M-PESA Global to Ethiopia, enabling seamless cross-border mobile money transactions between Kenya and Ethiopia. This move promotes financial inclusion, fosters economic growth, and facilitates regional trade by offering convenient and efficient fund transfers. Safaricom aims to boost mobile money penetration in Ethiopia, empowering businesses and individuals while supporting Ethiopia’s development goals. With its strong digital expertise, Safaricom continues to drive innovation in East Africa’s financial landscape.

By Charles Wachira
Safaricom, Kenya’s leading telecommunications provider, has launched its M-PESA Global service in Ethiopia, marking a significant step towards enhancing cross-border financial transactions between the two East African nations.

 This move is expected to foster economic growth, facilitate trade, and improve financial inclusion across the region.

M-PESA Global allows customers to make mobile money transactions seamlessly from Kenya to Ethiopia, offering a convenient and efficient way to transfer funds across borders.

 This expansion is part of Safaricom’s broader strategy to increase mobile money use and penetration in Ethiopia, leveraging its expertise in digital financial services.

Esther Waititu, Safaricom’s Chief Financial Services Officer, emphasized the strategic importance of this collaboration, stating, “This partnership underscores our commitment to delivering innovative financial solutions that meet the dynamic needs of our customers. By enhancing access to cross-border transfers, we are empowering individuals and businesses across the region.”

Benefits for Ethiopia:

The introduction of M-PESA Global in Ethiopia is expected to have several positive impacts:

  1. Enhanced Financial Inclusion: It will enable more Ethiopians to access formal financial services, promoting financial inclusion and reducing reliance on cash transactions.
  2. Economic Growth: Facilitating easier and more affordable cross-border transactions will stimulate economic activity, benefiting local businesses and contributing to overall economic growth.
  3. Trade Facilitation: Simplifying cross-border payments will facilitate trade between Kenya and Ethiopia, supporting importers, exporters, and small businesses engaged in regional commerce.

Opportunities for Individuals and Businesses:

For individuals, the availability of M-PESA Global means easier remittances and financial support from family members abroad. Businesses can leverage the service for payments, improving efficiency and reducing transaction costs associated with cross-border trade.

Safaricom’s expansion into Ethiopia with M-PESA Global reflects a strategic alignment with Ethiopia’s economic development goals and underscores the company’s commitment to driving digital transformation across the region.

About Safaricom:

Safaricom PLC is Kenya’s leading telecommunications company and pioneer in mobile money services through its widely recognized M-PESA platform. With over 50 million customers and a robust network infrastructure, Safaricom continues to innovate and expand its services to meet the evolving needs of consumers and businesses in East Africa.

This expansion into Ethiopia represents a significant milestone in Safaricom’s regional strategy and reinforces its position as a key player in driving digital and financial inclusion initiatives across East Africa

Keywords:M-PESA Global Ethiopia:Safaricom expansion:Cross-border transactions:Financial inclusion:Mobile money East Africa

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Kenya Secures UN Human Rights Council Seat Amid Domestic Concerns

The result of this bid has the potential to either spark meaningful change or exacerbate tensions between the government and civil society. Should Kenya effectively utilize its position to tackle its internal challenges, it could realize its goal of becoming a leader in global human rights advocacy. On the other hand, if it falls short, doubts may arise regarding the sincerity of its commitment to human rights, both within the country and on the international stage.

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Kenya's successful bid for a seat on the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) aligns with a wider strategy to bolster its international influence and leadership in advocating for human rights, especially in the East African region. Nevertheless, civil society groups in Kenya have voiced their concerns, contending that the country's human rights record raises significant doubts about its appropriateness for this role.

: Kenya’s recent election to the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2025-2027 term has sparked significant debate, with civil society organizations expressing strong opposition due to the country’s troubling human rights record. While the Kenyan government sees the council seat as an opportunity to enhance its global influence and advocate for African interests, critics argue that its internal challenges, including police brutality and shrinking civic space, undermine its credibility in human rights advocacy. This development raises critical questions about the balance between Kenya’s international ambitions and the urgent need for domestic reforms.

By Charles Wachira

On October 9, 2024, Kenya was elected as one of the 18 members of the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for the 2025-2027 term, a decision welcomed by the government but met with significant skepticism from civil society organizations. This move highlights a complex interplay between Kenya’s aspirations on the global stage and the serious human rights challenges it faces domestically.

Aspirations Versus Reality

Kenya’s successful bid to join the UNHRC is part of a broader strategy to enhance its international influence and leadership in promoting human rights, particularly in the East African region. However, civil society groups in Kenya have expressed their discontent, arguing that the nation’s track record on human rights raises serious questions about its suitability for such a role.

Critics point to ongoing issues like police brutality, extrajudicial killings, and the repression of dissenting voices, which have marred Kenya’s human rights landscape. Reports from reputable watch dogs such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have highlighted these concerns, asserting that the Kenyan government has failed to hold security forces accountable for their actions during political unrest.

The Case Against Kenya’s Bid

Civil society organizations have vehemently opposed Kenya’s UNHRC seat bid, arguing that the country’s human rights record disqualifies it from taking a leading role in global human rights advocacy. Key concerns include:

  1. Freedom of Expression: There has been a noted crackdown on dissent and freedom of expression in Kenya. Activists have documented cases of harassment, intimidation, and arbitrary arrests of journalists and human rights defenders. This environment contradicts the principles of open discourse and accountability that the UNHRC is supposed to uphold.
  2. Shrinking Civic Space: The Kenyan government has increasingly restricted the operations of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and civil society groups. These restrictions, perceived as government efforts to stifle criticism, have raised alarms about the viability of civil society in holding the government accountable.
  3. Gender Equality and Minority Rights: Despite some progress, issues surrounding gender equality and the rights of marginalized communities remain pressing concerns. The failure to implement the two-thirds gender rule and ongoing discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals highlight the gaps in Kenya’s human rights commitments.
  4. Corruption: Widespread corruption within the government undermines the protection of citizens’ rights and erodes trust in government institutions. Activists argue that until corruption is addressed, Kenya lacks the credibility to advocate for human rights internationally.

The Benefits of UNHRC Membership

Despite the criticism, the Kenyan government views its election to the UNHRC as a significant achievement with various potential benefits:

  1. Enhanced Diplomatic Influence: Being part of the UNHRC provides Kenya with a platform to shape global human rights policies, particularly those affecting Africa. This could enhance its standing as a key diplomatic player on the continent.
  2. Advancing African Interests: A seat on the council allows Kenya to represent and advocate for human rights issues pertinent to Africa, such as post-conflict reconstruction and justice for victims of war crimes.
  3. Reinforcing Global Commitments: Holding a seat showcases Kenya’s commitment to multilateralism and global governance. It presents an opportunity to engage with the international community on human rights issues.
  4. Economic and Developmental Partnerships: Aligning with global human rights standards can attract development aid and investments from international partners who prioritize governance in their foreign policy.
  5. Incentivizing Domestic Reforms: Some advocates suggest that international scrutiny from UNHRC membership could pressure the Kenyan government to address its domestic human rights challenges, potentially leading to significant reforms.

Looking Ahead: A Path to Reconciliation?

Kenya’s election to the UNHRC has ignited a vital discussion about the country’s human rights challenges versus its global aspirations. As the government prepares to assume its responsibilities, the significant opposition from civil society cannot be overlooked.

The outcome of this bid could serve as a catalyst for positive change or deepen the rift between the government and civil society. If Kenya can leverage its position to address its internal issues, it may fulfill its ambition of becoming a leader in global human rights advocacy. Conversely, failure to do so may raise questions about the credibility of its commitment to human rights, both domestically and internationally.

Ultimately, the journey ahead will require balancing national interests with the urgent need for reforms that align with the principles of human rights that Kenya is now expected to champion on the global stage. As Kenya embarks on this new chapter, the hopes of its civil society for meaningful change hang in the balance.

Keywords:Kenya:UN Human Rights Council:Civil Society:Human Rights Record:Global Advocacy

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Rural Survival:Guardians of Mother Earth,Saving Mau,Revitalizing Native Lands   

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: Between 2001 and 2002, the Mau Forest deforestation resulted in loss of about  533 square kilometres of tree cover. Now, a group of women, under the aegis of the Paran Women Group, are preparing to plant 100,000 saplings this rainy season to restore the forest.  

By Joyce Chimbi

Between 2001 and 2022, the Mau Forest’s deforestation resulted in the loss of about 533 square kilometers of tree cover. Now, a group of women, under the aegis of the Paran Women Group, are preparing to plant 100,000 saplings this rainy season in an effort to restore the forest.

Paran Women Group's executive director, Naiyan Kiplagat, is working in the forest. The group are passionate guardians of the environment and promoters of gender equality. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

Paran Women Group’s executive director, Naiyan Kiplagat, is working in the forest. The group are passionate guardians of the environment and promoters of gender equality. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

The Great Rift Valley is part of an intra-continental ridge system that runs through Kenya from north to south. A breathtaking, diverse mix of natural beauty that includes dramatic escarpments, highland mountains, cliffs and gorges, lakes and savannas. It is also home to one of Africa’s greatest wildlife reserves—the Maasai Mara National Reserve.

give life to this wondrous natural phenomenon. Located about 170 kilometres northwest of Nairobi, this is the largest indigenous montane forest in East Africa. It is also the largest of the country’s five watersheds and a catchment area for 12 rivers that flow into five major lakes.

More than 10 million people depend on its rivers. Its magnificent portfolio of rare plants and animal species is unfortunately a magnet for illegal activities. Forest monitoring groups say a staggering 25 percent of the forest was lost between 1984 and 2020 and that overall, Mau Forest lost 19 percent of its tree cover—around 533 square kilometres—between 2001 and 2022.

“Paran Women Group is committed to restoring the Mau Forest. To stop the pace and severity of its destruction and degradation, we approached the government through the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and were allowed access to 200 acres of the Maasai Mau Forest block, which is one of the 22 blocks that make the entire Mau Forest Complex. There are 280 water catchments inside the complex,” Naiyan Kiplagat, the executive director of the Paran Women Group told IPS.

“In January this year, we began our restoration efforts and have already covered 100 acres. At the moment, we have prepared 70,000 seedlings and intend to collect another 30,000 from women groups to reach our target of 100,000 tree seedlings, which will be planted once the rainy season begins to cover the remaining 100 acres.”

In Maa, a language spoken by the Maasai community, Paran means ‘come together to assist each other’. Paran Women Group is an organization comprised of women from the Maasai and Ogiek communities who are indigenous, minority ethnic groups.

Forest rangers working for the Kenya Forest Service are responsible for protecting Kenya's forests. Paran Women Group are in a partnership with KFS to restore Maasai Mau Forest block. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

Forest rangers working for the Kenya Forest Service are responsible for protecting Kenya’s forests. Paran Women Group are in a partnership with KFS to restore Maasai Mau Forest block. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

There are 280 water catchments inside the expansive Mau Forest Complex. These feed 12 rivers, which in turn feed five major lakes. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

There are 280 water catchments inside the expansive Mau Forest Complex. These feed 12 rivers, which in turn feed five major lakes. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

The organization comprises 64 women groups and 3,718 members. United against dual marginalization and patriarchy, the group started small, in 2005 and continues to grow and expand their base and conservation activities.

Carrying the wisdom of their ancestors, they rely on indigenous knowledge and innovation in their conservation, afforestation, reforestation and all other land restoration efforts while promoting gender equality. Paran Women Resource centre is located in Eor Ewuaso, a remote rural village in the Ololunga location of Narok South sub-county, Narok County, in the Rift Valley.

The women hold a title deed to the expansive piece of land. A notable achievement in a minority community where women have little autonomy and land is owned and controlled by men. They have another seven satellite resource centres within the expansive counties geared towards giving women access to productive resources.

These centres are a hub of knowledge and activities to promote conservation and livelihood activities such as sustainable agriculture, beekeeping, beadwork and briquettes for energy-saving cooking to release pressure from the embattled Mau Forest. More than 617 households are already using efficient, energy-saving stoves.

“We are conservationists with a passion for gender equality. Gender-based violence is prevalent in indigenous communities, such as the outlawed Female Genital Mutilation and forced marriages. The most recent incidence was of a nine-year-old girl. We are marginalized as a community in general and worse, our culture has few rights for women and girls. We help children stay in school by paying school fees from our income-generating activities,” she says.

Patrick Lemanyan, a resident of Ololunga, says Paran women “rear and sell chicken and foods such as pumpkin, vegetables and sorghum. They also sell beadwork. Maasai beadwork is unique, beautiful and very marketable. In Nairobi, there is even the popular Maasai market for such beadwork and other Maasai items, such as sandals. The women here face no resistance from the community. We have suffered for many years from failed rainfall and we know that saving the forest is also about saving us as a community.”

Paran Women Resource Centre is located in Eor Ewuaso, a remote rural village in the Ololunga location of Narok Sout sub-county, Narok County, in Rift Valley. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

Paran Women Resource Centre is located in Eor Ewuaso, a remote rural village in the Ololunga location of Narok South sub-county, Narok County, in Rift Valley. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

Some of the jewellery that the women at the Paran Women Group made. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

Some of the jewelry that the women at the Paran Women Group make. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

Naiyan says indigenous communities depend on natural resources such as forests, rivers and their biodiversity for their survival. The ongoing climate and biodiversity crises affect them the most as a community. Women have no assets and are therefore worse off.

“The Maasai’s are pastoralists. During prolonged dry seasons, a man will take all the livestock with him and move from place to place for even three years, leaving behind his wives and children. The family is left behind with nothing because women own nothing,” she says.

Naiyan, an Ogiek married to a Maasai, says the Ogiek have not faired any better. As hunters and gathers in an ecosystem that has been destroyed by human activity and climate change, they too are in a life-and-death situation and, are learning to pursue livelihood options outside of their indigenous lifestyle by keeping poultry for sale and farming. Men do not keep or concern themselves with poultry as it is considered beneath them. They keep large livestock such as cows and goats.

Originally pastoralists and hunters and gatherers, the Maasai and Ogiek have turned to sustainable agriculture as a climate adaptation mechanism. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

Originally pastoralists and hunters and gatherers, the Maasai and Ogiek have turned to sustainable agriculture as a climate adaptation mechanism. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

These are manyattas, Maasai traditional homes. Women from the Maasai and Ogiek communities have joined forces to save their native lands. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

These are manyattas, Maasai traditional homes. Women from the Maasai and Ogiek communities have joined forces to save their native lands. Credit: Joyce Chimbi/IPS

“The role of indigenous groups and more so women, in environmental protection cannot be overemphasized. More so as women are able to combine conservation efforts with income-generating activities. They educate and support each other, and their children grow to school, breaking the debilitating cycle of poverty associated with minority groups due to historical injustices and inequalities,” says Vesca Ikenya, an educator in Gender and Natural Resources.

Stressing that “indigenous people and local communities bring on board indigenous knowledge and leadership that only they possess as custodians of their own lands and waters and have had intimate interactions with their ecosystems since time immemorial. Each generation preserves and passes on this knowledge to the next. When indigenous and local communities take lead in conservation efforts, they never get it wrong. They understand which species grew where and when.”

The Paran Women Group tree nursery is home to 27 indigenous species, including croton macrostacyus, syzygium cuminii, prunus African and Olea Africans. Of the 150,000 tree seedlings already planted this year, 112,500 have survived and are thriving.

According to 2021 International Work Group for Indigenous Affairs and International Labour Organization joint report, indigenous peoples were responsible for protecting an estimated 22 percent of the planet’s surface and 80 percent of biodiversity.

The Paran Women Group has not gone unnoticed and has won a series of international awards. In 2018, they received an award on rural survival from the World Women Foundation Summit; in 2020, they received the International Leadership Award from the International Indigenous Women’s Forum; last year, during the COP28 in the UAE, they received the Gender Justice Climate Solutions and are preparing to receive yet another international award in October 2024.

This feature is published with the support of Open Society Foundations.

IPS UN Bureau Report

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