Kenya is calling for stronger global collaboration to tackle pressing environmental challenges, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, Dr Deborah Barasa, said on Monday during the opening of the 7th United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) in Nairobi.
“Kenya is ready to partner with governments, civil society, the private sector, academia, and local actors. Because today, partnership is not optional, it is absolutely essential,” Dr. Barasa said, stressing the critical role of joint action to address global crises.
Speaking to delegates from across the globe, Dr. Barasa emphasised that incremental measures are no longer sufficient.
“The time for small, cautious steps has passed; what we need now is bold, integrated, and inclusive action,” she said, calling for transformative policies that combine innovation, justice, and practical solutions.
Dr. Barasa underlined that a resilient planet requires more than protecting ecosystems.
“It means using our resources wisely, building just and inclusive societies, ensuring that economic growth respects the boundaries of our planet, and embracing innovation to foresee and prevent harm before it happens,” she said.
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She noted that the environmental crises the world faces are interconnected and cannot be addressed in isolation.
These include climate change, loss of biodiversity, land degradation, toxic pollution, and unsustainable consumption, all compounded by factors such as political instability.
CS Barasa on steps taken by Kenya
Kenya, she said, is taking proactive steps by sponsoring three resolutions and co-sponsoring two more at UNEA-7, focusing on sustainable solutions, resilience, and inclusive governance.
We must champion inclusive environmental governance, making sure women and youth, indigenous peoples, local communities, and marginalised groups have a voice and real power.
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“Our solutions must be fair, just, practical, and leave no one behind,” Dr. Barasa added.
Highlighting Kenya’s commitment to the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, Dr Barasa emphasised the need to mobilise finance for nature-based and circular economy solutions, strengthen institutions, and promote knowledge sharing to link local action with global ambition.
“Let us resolve that UNEA-7 will not just talk about the future, it will help create it. Let us embrace the boldness, collaboration, and urgency this moment demands.
Guided by science, grounded in fairness, let us forge a resilient planet for our generation and for those who will follow,” she concluded.
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