Environment and Forestry CS Keriako Tobiko, has said Kenya is committed to exploring and establishing international collaborations in the marine and aquaculture sectors to work towards the National Blue Economy strategy plan.
The CS said the oceans agenda continues to remain a vital pillar for states implementation for the achievement of their national economies and materialization of the SDG 14 for delivery of the 2030 Agenda today as he gave the National Statement at the UN Ocean Conference.
“Kenya is currently developing a National Blue Economy strategic plan that is inclusive and multi-stakeholder oriented. In this vein, Kenya commits to further her pursuit in calling for global partnerships in the marine and aquaculture sector in order to enhance capacity building for the actualization of the strategic plan.”
The CS reiterated the Governments’ commitment in curbing threats in conservation of oceans, following the putting in place of multi-sectoral policies, legal, institutional, regulatory frameworks and implementation strategies, all aimed at addressing marine pollution.
The CS said Kenya commits to developing a National Action Plan on Sea Based Marine Plastic litter which will be tailored to address gaps, priorities and needs, to more effectively prevent and reduce marine plastic litter from sea-based resources.
He added that recently, the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) developed a National Marine Litter Management action plan in fulfillment of the recommendation of UNEA 1 and Nairobi Convention Regional Marine Litter Management Action Plan, a clear demonstration of Kenyans commitment in curbing pollution.
CS Tobiko outlined that one important step in restoring the health of the oceans is the prohibition on the production and use of polythene bags as well as the extension of the same ban to single-use plastics in protected areas.
“My Government commits to ensuring the actualization of the establishment of the Legally Binding Instrument by 2024 for complete elimination of marine plastic litter”, He added.
In addition, the National Ocean Fund, says CS Tobiko, will be essential in enhancing strategic partnerships with development partners in various sectors of the ocean management.
