Kenya has thrown its full support behind the development and approval of a new global environmental blueprint as the 7th Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA-7) opened in Nairobi on Monday.
Addressing ministers, diplomats, and delegates gathered at the UN headquarters in Gigiri, Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Dr. Deborah Barasa said the Assembly is expected to shape the course of international environmental governance for years to come through the consideration of a new Medium-Term Strategy (MTS) and Programme of Work.
“This session of UNEA-7 is also expected to consider and approve the Medium-Term Strategy (MTS) and Programme of Work, a key document that will shape UNEP’s strategic direction and collective environmental action for the years ahead,” Dr. Barasa said.
She emphasised that Kenya is keen to ensure the strategy reflects the priorities of developing nations and the urgency of global environmental crises.
“Kenya looks forward to constructively contributing to its finalisation, ensuring that the MTP reflects ambition, science-based policy, equity, and opportunities for innovation, especially for developing countries,” she added.
The MTS, which outlines UNEP’s global mandate for the next planning cycle, is central to efforts to tackle escalating challenges including climate change, biodiversity loss, land degradation, pollution and unsustainable consumption patterns, issues Dr. Barasa described as “unique and deeply intertwined.”
The Cabinet Secretary also expressed optimism that the Assembly will deliver a unifying political outcome.
“I am optimistic that this UNEA will culminate in a strong Ministerial Declaration,” she said, noting that both the declaration and the decision on the dates for UNEA-8 will be “key to advancing our shared global environmental goals with clear commitments and actionable steps.”
Kenya, as the host nation and a long-standing UNEP partner, is sponsoring three resolutions and co-sponsoring two others, all aimed at driving innovation, resilience, and inclusive environmental governance.
Dr. Barasa said this approach reflects the spirit of “constructive multilateralism” needed to confront global environmental threats.
She affirmed that Kenya will continue aligning national development with the 2030 Agenda, mobilising finance for circular economy and nature-based solutions, and strengthening institutions to support implementation.
As the world meets in what she described as “the world’s environmental home,” Dr. Barasa called on nations to embrace boldness and collaboration. In closing, she urged delegates: “Let us resolve that UNEA-7 will not just talk about the future, it will help create it.”
