Kenya and UN Partner to Restore Forests and Wildlife

Kenya is doubling down on protecting its natural treasures with an expanded partnership that brings hope to vulnerable communities and endangered ecosystems.

The country's Environment and Climate Change department met with UN Development Programme representatives this week to strengthen collaboration on climate action and wildlife conservation. Principal Secretary Festus Ngeno and UNDP Resident Representative Jean-Luc Stalon outlined plans to restore forests, protect biodiversity, and help communities adapt to climate challenges.

One standout project, the IMKA Gold initiative, is already making progress across four Kenyan counties. Running through May 2026, the program focuses on building climate resilience in Kakamega, Vihiga, Narok, and Migori, with project sites preparing for official commissioning next year.

The partnership goes beyond conservation to tackle climate damage directly. UNDP has deployed trained data collectors to climate-vulnerable areas, gathering crucial information that will help Kenya access international funds for communities already suffering from climate impacts. This data will shape Kenya's first official report on climate losses, building on earlier work from 2020.

The Ripple Effect

The collaboration is sparking action across Kenya's calendar. The Mau Conservation Marathon, scheduled for July 3 in Nakuru County, will rally public support and raise funds to restore the vital Mau Forest ecosystem. Registration opens in May, giving runners a chance to literally run for their forest.

Kenya is also hosting major environmental events throughout 2026. The BIOFIN Conference in April will bring together officials and experts to implement global biodiversity goals and secure funding for nature protection. In May, Elgeyo Marakwet will celebrate International Biodiversity Day with the launch of the CHERISH Restoration Programme.

Coastal communities get their moment too. The World Day to Combat Desertification comes to Kilifi County in June, while Mombasa hosts the Oceans Conference the same month, putting marine conservation in the spotlight.

Behind the scenes, Kenya is updating its National Biodiversity Strategies and Action Plans to align with international frameworks. The updates will help mainstream biodiversity protection across sectors like agriculture, ensuring environmental protection becomes part of everyday economic planning rather than an afterthought.

Both parties described the meeting as strengthening an already solid partnership built on shared commitment to sustainability and resilience.