Kenya to Review Public Comments on the Draft National Environment Policy 2026

The State Department for Environment and Climate Change will convene a review of public comments on the Draft National Environment Policy 2026 from 2 to 7 November 2026 in Naivasha, Nakuru County, in a key step towards developing a responsive, inclusive and future-ready framework for environmental management in Kenya.

The six-day exercise will bring together the Technical Working Group (TWG) and relevant stakeholders to examine, consolidate and incorporate feedback received during the public participation process undertaken in October 2026. The review marks a critical stage in updating the National Environment Policy 2013 to reflect emerging environmental challenges, developments in environmental law, devolved governance and Kenya’s national and international commitments.

The draft policy addresses key environmental priorities, including climate change, biodiversity conservation, pollution control, sustainable waste management, circular economy, carbon markets and environmental governance. It also considers emerging issues that require new approaches to environmental management and decision-making. The review seeks to align the policy with the Constitution of Kenya, particularly Article 42, which guarantees the right to a clean and healthy environment, and Articles 69 and 70, which provide for environmental obligations and the enforcement of environmental rights.

The Technical Working Group will assess the submissions received, identify areas requiring further consideration and refine the draft policy to ensure that the recommendations are adequately addressed before the document proceeds to national validation. An updated policy framework is expected to strengthen coordination between national and county governments, improve environmental management and guide the sustainable use of natural resources in response to the country’s evolving environmental and climate realities.

Following the review, the revised draft is expected to proceed to a national validation conference in November 2026, where stakeholders will consider its provisions and work towards building consensus. The overall review process is targeting completion by 12 December 2026.

The revised National Environment Policy will provide strategic direction for environmental management in Kenya, supporting sustainable development and the protection of the environment for present and future generations.