Kenya Strengthens Charcoal Regulations and Protection of Threatened Species

On 17th February 2026, Forestry Principal Secretary Mr. Gitonga Mugambi chaired a high-level meeting with representatives from the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to advance key policy reforms on sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation in Kenya.
Discussions focused on the Charcoal Regulations, which have completed public participation, and the next step requiring a Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA) to evaluate social, economic, and environmental implications before approval. The meeting also addressed the conservation of threatened species, including CITES-listed plants, and the development of guidelines to protect endangered flora such as Osyris lanceolata and Boswellia neglecta.
The engagement highlighted Kenya’s commitment to evidence-based policymaking, strategic partnerships, and balancing environmental protection with sustainable livelihoods. Senior State Department officials, led by Forest Development Secretary Mr. George Tarus, were also present.
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