The International Day for Biological Diversity is observed annually on May 22 to raise global awareness about the importance of protecting the planet’s ecosystems, species, and genetic variety. The 2026 theme was, “Acting locally for global impact”, emphasizes how grassroots action drives global conservation targets.
In Kenya, the national celebrations were held at Kapyego, Tebe Forest block, Marakwet East Sub County, Elgeyo Marakwet County. The day coincided with the launch of the 10-year Cherangany Hills Ecosystem Restoration for Livelihood Improvement, Sustainability and Harmony (CHERISH) Programme.
The initiative was unveiled during a colourful ceremony graced by , marking a significant milestone in efforts to restore and sustainably manage the Cherangany Hills ecosystem for improved livelihoods and long-term environmental resilience.
‎Speaking at the event, the Deputy President said the the Constitution had put emphasis on the protection of the environment as a right for the people noting the country cannot progress without a sustainably conserved environment. He congratulated the Patron of Cherish for establishing the programme that he said will be a game changer in the restoration of the country’s forest ecosystems.
‎The Patron of CHERISH and Cabinet Secretary for Interior and National Administration Government Hon. Onesmus Kipchumba Murkomen said the programme will involve the community in all its activities noting that their empowerment will be a success factor for the project. Mr. Murkomen added that the programme will incorporate other activities including peace building initiatives as well as sports development programmes.
‎On her part, the Cabinet Secretary for Environment, Climate Change and Forestry Dr. Deborah Barasa while noting that the launch coincided with the marking of the International Day of Biodiversity, thanked Hon. Murkomen for the programme which she said will help to restore the great biodiversity of one of the biggest forest ecosystems in the country. She said the government was committed to restoring the biodiversity of the country in order to guarantee development through sustainable conservation of forests which are the anchors of Kenya’s key economic sectors including forestry, wildlife, agriculture and energy among others.
PS Dr. Ng’eno said the success of programmes such as CHERISH depends on strong community participation, community ownership and sustained partnerships among government, development partners, civil society and the private sector. “Environmental conservation can only succeed when local communities are placed at the centre of action and empowered as custodians of our natural heritage”.
Speaking at the event, NEMA Director General, Dr. Mamo B. Mamo, EBS emphasized on this year’s theme “Acting Local for Global Impact” highlighting the importance of environmental conservation by taking deliberate actions like tree planting and keeping the environment clean.
The NEMA Chairman , Emilio Mugo indicated that biodiversity encompasses environmental conservation efforts that support the health ecosystems that are vital infrastructure in driving national development. He further highlighted the importance of maintaining native ecosystem not only through tree planting but also protecting water systems and nurturing the trees.
NEMA is implementing the Access and Benefits Sharing (ABS) Regulations, 2006 that governs conservation of ecosystems, habitats, and species that regulate scientific research on genetic materials and ensuring local communities benefit from indigenous biological resources.
