Keriako Tobiko, Cabinet Secretary for Environment and Forestry, has stated that if the Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) Amendment bill currently before parliament passes, the National Environment Management Authority will have more powers to prosecute environmental crimes.
The CS made the remarks today at Michuki Memorial Park in Nairobi, during an award ceremony for NEMA and the National Environment Tribunal.
The CS praised the NEMA board and management for their efforts to provide services to Kenyans in the face of adversity. He also thanked the support staff for their efforts, which go unnoticed but contribute to the delivery of services.
“NEMA’s selection as Africa’s Continental Environmental Regulator of the Year 2022 is evidence of the good work being done in the environmental sector across the country, which is being recognized globally.”
The event was also attended by Ann Asugah, Registrar of the Environment Tribunal, who was representing Hon. Chief Justice Martha Koome. She urged participants to consider various ways to improve the environment.
NEMA Ag. Chair, Dr. Lul Abdiwahid enumerated some of the achievements that the Authority has made in the last two years such as;
1. Reviewed the Controlled Substances Regulations, 2007.
2. 2357 Cases relating to environmental offences prosecuted.
3. Finalized the Lake Olbolassat, Ewuaso Narok, Sio Siteko Wetland Management Plans.
4. Engaged the council of governors and county governments where 45 Committees have been gazetted.
5. Secured adaptation funds to support 11 Entities in climate adaptation activities in 14 Counties.
6. Mobilized Kshs. 807Million from the World Bank to address issues of e-waste.
7. Planted 293,000 seedlings towards the achievement of the 10% tree cover.
8. Public education and awareness on environment management.
9. Established an environmental licensing centre and online licencing platform.
10. Gazetted 106 environment inspectors from NEMA and the Counties.
Speaking at the event, NEMA Director-General Mamo B Mamo stated that the Authority, as the primary supervisor and coordinator of environmental matters in Kenya, has strived to provide customer-focused service delivery in its processes, ensuring efficiency and ease of doing business.
The Authority operates in all forty-seven (47) counties across Kenya to ensure the provision of environmental services to all Kenyans.
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