AGP Executive Report

El Niño Preparedness: Kenya is bracing for above-normal rains with a UN El Niño emergency fund that could unlock up to $100m (Sh13bn) for resilience, while KALRO warns failed rains and pests could trigger a looming food shortage. Flood Risk Planning: The government is also moving to launch a Nairobi flash flood early warning system, backed by a Netherlands-funded scoping study, to cut deaths and damage during heavy downpours. Food Security on the Ground: A countywide digital maize damage assessment is underway after failed rains, with Trans Nzoia reporting massive maize destruction. Coastal Protection: Kilifi tourism stakeholders are urging action against illegal high-rise building on beaches inside protected areas after a deadly collapse at Watamu. Biosafety at Ports: Kenya’s National Biosafety Authority has issued guidance to ports to clear only NBA-approved GM products, tightening controls on imports. Health & Safety Concerns: A systematic review flags pesticide residues in infant formula, including findings from studies that included Kenya. Trade & Regional Integration: Kenya aims to double exports to Tanzania after Dar es Salaam scrapped an industrial development levy on EAC goods.

Pollution Enforcement Under Fire: Senators grilled Environment CS Deborah Barasa over weak enforcement of pollution laws, citing industrial emissions, hazardous waste, e-waste and water contamination—blaming gaps in NEMA implementation. Dangote Refinery Push Meets Climate Backlash: Campaigners renewed calls to stop Dangote’s planned 700,000-barrel/day Lamu refinery, warning it could lock Kenya into risky oil dependence and threaten fragile coastal ecosystems. Animal Feed Cost Plan: Government unveiled a Ksh 465bn National Feed Strategy to cut livestock feed costs, boost local feed and fodder production, and reduce Kenya’s raw-material deficit. Ol Kalou By-election Tensions: KHRC warned of escalating violence, voter intimidation and bribery ahead of the July 16 poll, saying it could undermine confidence in the process. Health Deal With US: Kenya and the US signed a five-year, Sh206bn health cooperation framework to support KEMSA, malaria, HIV and TB, digital health and progress toward UHC. Agroecology in Action: Farmers across counties are testing on-farm organic fertilisers and drought-tolerant crops under community-led agroecology research in Makueni. Biotech Data Access: A new continental digital portal (Biotech Africa Database) aims to centralise biotech approval and biosafety requirements to speed decisions and reduce cross-border uncertainty.

El Niño Watch: A strengthening El Niño is raising fears of worse flooding, disease and food insecurity across East Africa and parts of Asia, with Kenya among the countries activating disaster preparations. Food Security: Drought-linked poor maize performance is already worrying farmers, and Kenya could face a maize shortage if rains fail. Water Storage: Germany’s drought warnings are a reminder that groundwater is being depleted faster than it can recharge, pushing the need for better rainwater and groundwater storage. Blue Economy: Mombasa BMU leaders received training to strengthen fisheries governance and sustainable marine resource management. Fisheries Reform: Kenya urged evidence-based fisheries governance across Africa to tackle climate pressure and illegal fishing. Plastic Pollution Talks: UN member states are progressing toward an international legally binding plastic pollution instrument, with Kenya hosting key negotiating sessions in the past. Wildlife Conservation: Raabia Hawa is gaining global acclaim for wildlife and marine conservation work along Kenya’s coast. Clean Water Policy: Kenya ended excise duty on bottled water, a move aimed at making clean water more affordable. Governance & Civic Space: Activists and human rights defenders warn of intimidation ahead of the 2027 election, while police deployments around Ol Kalou by-election face fresh allegations.

Food Security Under Strain: A dry spell has devastated Kenya’s maize crop, with officials warning of up to 60% failure in key producing counties like Uasin Gishu and Trans Nzoia, threatening an acute shortage of maize and ugali later this year. Coastal Ecosystem at Risk: Greenpeace Africa is urging Kenya to halt Aliko Dangote’s planned 700,000-barrel-per-day mega oil refinery at Lamu, warning of habitat destruction, marine damage, oil spill risk and dangerous air pollution without a full independent environmental and social impact assessment. Toxic Exposure Concerns: A new scientific review reports pesticide residues in infant formula, with studies including Kenya finding multiple contaminant classes such as organochlorines, organophosphates, pyrethroids and neonicotinoids—raising health concerns for infants. Climate Extremes Warning: The IRC warns that a strengthening El Niño could trigger severe floods, disease outbreaks and drought across vulnerable East African and Asian communities, with Kenya flagged among the highest-risk countries. Community-Led Conservation: Kenya’s Loisaba Conservancy highlights integrated conservation that protects wildlife and habitat while supporting sustainable livestock and local livelihoods. Wildlife Leadership: Dr Robert Aruho’s appointment as Co-Chair of IUCN’s Antelope Specialist Group boosts Kenya’s role in global antelope recovery efforts. Waste & Environmental Justice: Nubian activist Malasen Hamida pushes waste management, smart farming and land rights through her Mazingira Women Initiative, linking women’s leadership to long-term environmental outcomes. Water & Sanitation Accountability: A South C MCA aspirant, Rashid Biliki, was arrested after alleged discharge of raw sewage onto a public road, drawing public health concerns and calls for criminal action.

El Niño Watch: The International Rescue Committee warns a rapidly strengthening El Niño could trigger severe flooding, disease and food insecurity across Kenya, Uganda and Somalia, with peak conditions likely between October and December. Election Risk: The Kofi Annan Foundation’s Electoral Vulnerability Index flags Kenya’s 2027 vote as highly prone to violence, citing a history of unrest and the political shock after Raila Odinga’s death. Wildlife Under Heat: In Samburu, two elephants were seen cooling in a shared mud bath, a reminder that extreme temperatures are reshaping animal survival and behaviour. Public Health & Toxins: A systematic review reports multiple pesticide residues in infant formula, with Kenya among the sampled countries, raising concerns about long- and short-term exposure. Clean Cooking Push: The IEA says $900m in new clean-cooking commitments will help Africa cut deaths linked to polluting fuels. Water & Climate Resilience: Vodafone highlights connectivity as a lifeline for climate resilience, supporting early warnings and emergency response. Conservation in Action: Kirinyaga maps snakebite hotspots to guide antivenom planning, while Laikipia’s invasive cactus is being tackled with a biological control insect.

Clean Cooking Push: The IEA says 850,000 people in Africa die each year from pollution from polluting cooking fuels, and it has launched a new clean-cooking initiative with $900m in fresh commitments to help countries strengthen supply chains and reach 1 billion people. Water Security: Habitat for Humanity Kenya drilled a 250-metre borehole in Kyuasini, Masinga, ending decades of long treks for safe water and supporting domestic use and irrigation. Drought Resilience Fundraising: NDMA unveiled a Sh130.8m athletics road-race campaign for climate resilience and water projects in Isiolo, Samburu, Laikipia and Meru. Wildlife Governance Clash: President Ruto intervened as Amboseli National Park transfer tensions escalated; the High Court temporarily blocked Kajiado County from taking over management pending a hearing. Pollution & Health Risk: A systematic review found multiple pesticide residues in infant formula, with studies reporting organochlorines, organophosphates, pyrethroids and neonicotinoids, raising concerns for infant health. Agricultural Plastics: FAO highlights efforts to cut plastic pollution in farming, pointing to Kenya’s FARM project for better lifecycle management of agricultural plastic waste. Capital Markets & ESG: Kenya’s Capital Markets Authority approved new corporate governance rules and opened an ESG code for consultation, pushing sustainability into financial oversight. Livestock Markets: A first Africa Pastoral Markets Forum in Addis Ababa calls for transforming pastoral livestock into a growth engine through investment and stronger market systems.

Food Safety & Health: A systematic review in Environmental Toxicology and Pharmacology finds pesticide residues in infant formula across 22 of 26 studies, with multiple chemical classes reported—including organochlorines, organophosphates, pyrethroids and neonicotinoids—raising concerns for long- and short-term infant health. Plastic Pollution & Jobs: In Syokimau, an entrepreneur is turning collected plastic waste into durable fencing poles, aiming to cut pollution while creating income for waste collectors and manufacturers. Water-Energy-Food Governance: Kenya joined Ghana and Burkina Faso stakeholders in Accra under the EU-funded EPIC Africa project to discuss sustainable governance of the Volta Basin, linking water security, energy generation and food production. Climate & Health Risk: A study on heatwaves estimates over 2,700 heat-related deaths in England and Wales, with a large share linked to human-caused warming—another warning for vulnerable populations. Agriculture & Pesticides: Kenya-focused reporting highlights rising pesticide concerns and pushes agroecology as a safer route to food security. Governance & Environment: Kenya’s NBA urged strict biosafety compliance for GMO confined field trials to protect people, animals and the environment.

Lake Victoria Pollution: Winam Gulf in Kisumu is turning into a “smelly crisis,” with thick odours spreading across Dunga Beach and nearby settlements—another warning that water quality is still failing communities. Climate & Gender: CARE International warns “super El Niño” will hit women hardest, turning the coming weather shock into a women’s health emergency. Coastal Plastic & Mangroves: Malindi’s first Estuary Wetsand Marathon is paired with a community clean-up and mangrove planting to tackle plastic pollution around the Sabaki estuary. Wildlife Under Pressure: Kenya’s Tsavo area is seeing a surge of wild elephants drawn to a desalination lifeline, highlighting how water stress is reshaping wildlife movements. Health Security: MSF is training health workers in Nairobi for Ebola response deployments to DR Congo as cases rise. Governance & Environment: EU’s outgoing envoy says corruption is Kenya’s biggest drag on progress, undermining public trust and delivery—an issue that also affects environmental enforcement. Electricity Trade: Kenya Power and Ethiopia sign a new supply deal at about KSh 20 per kWh, boosting regional energy connectivity.

Clean Cooking Push: Africa secured $900m in new commitments to expand clean cooking tech, aiming to cut reliance on charcoal and firewood that drive premature deaths. Wildlife & Water Security: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust says a desalination plant in northern Tsavo is drawing 150+ wild elephants to safe water, helping reduce human-wildlife conflict. Conservation With Livelihoods: Deputy President Kindiki backed Kaptagat Forest’s 10-year restoration model, highlighting community-led tree recovery, clean energy and income projects. Marine Nutrition Science: A new study finds seagrass meadows can support healthier, more nutrient-rich fish than coral reefs—important for coastal food security. Climate Shocks & Public Trust: Research links climate disasters to lower “tax morale,” showing how floods and droughts can weaken willingness to pay taxes. Health & Pollution Risk: A systematic review reports multiple pesticide residues in infant formula, with findings spanning Kenya and other countries. Governance & Service Delivery: Foreign Service reforms shift Kenya’s diplomacy toward measurable outcomes, while leaders stress peace, security and an accountable public service.

Kaptagat Forest Restoration: Deputy President Kithure Kindiki backed the Kaptagat Integrated Conservation Programme as it marks 10 years of community-led forest recovery that also boosts livelihoods through clean energy and farm initiatives like cocoa. Blue-food science: A new study comparing East Africa’s seagrass meadows and coral reefs finds seagrass habitats support fish that carry key nutrients for human nutrition, strengthening the case for protecting “hidden” coastal ecosystems. Coastal women & ocean resilience: In Malindi, fisherwomen are shifting from fishing-only survival to tourism and conservation-linked businesses as mangrove restoration and healthier marine habitats open new income paths. Water for schools in West Pokot: The Micro Irrigation for Schools Programme commissioned solar boreholes, drip greenhouses and water kiosks to support year-round food production and lower school feeding costs. Clean cooking push: The IEA reports $900m in new clean-cooking commitments for Africa, targeting the near 1 billion people still using polluting fuels. Maritime safety upgrade: Kenya Ports Authority launched a Vessel Traffic Management Information System at Mombasa to improve navigation oversight, coordination and marine safety. Pesticide safety concern: A systematic review found multiple pesticide residues in infant formula, with studies including Kenya among the sources, raising health concerns for babies.

Clean Cooking Push: The IEA says African nations secured $900m for clean cooking tech, aiming to cut reliance on charcoal and firewood that drive major household air pollution deaths. Wildlife & Conservation: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust reports a rescued baby elephant, Zuri, is now protected by older “nanny” elephants after surviving a septic tank ordeal—showing how social support helps recovery. Green Mobility: UNDP and TAILG signed an MoU to launch “Green Ride Africa,” backing green, low-carbon transport projects and industry incubation. Biodiversity Warning: BirdLife International warns migratory birds are declining fast, flagging habitat loss, pollution and climate pressures that ripple into food and water systems. Health & Environment: A review on infant formula finds pesticide residues in most studies, with multiple chemical classes and other contaminants potentially co-existing. Infrastructure & Land: KeNHA says work is progressing on the Rironi–Mau Summit Highway after inspections of priority corridor sections. Climate Resilience in the Horn: IGAD ICPAC and Action Against Hunger unveiled a $4.5m anticipatory action project to protect about 250,000 people from climate and conflict shocks.

Court & Land Use: A Nairobi court has stopped a planned 12-storey apartment near the KDF headquarters and the Chinese Embassy in Kilimani, ruling the county’s approvals unlawful—another reminder that environmental and land decisions can still be challenged in court. Climate Early Action: IGAD’s ICPAC and Action Against Hunger unveiled a $4.5m, 24-month Horn of Africa initiative to strengthen anticipatory action, aiming to protect about 250,000 people across Ethiopia, Somalia and Djibouti by linking forecasts to timely responses. Food, Oceans & Nutrition: New research finds underwater seagrass meadows along Kenya-to-Mozambique waters can make fish more nutritionally dense than fish from nearby coral reefs—good news for coastal livelihoods and nutrition. Energy & Regional Integration: Kenya Power will buy electricity from Ethiopia under a newly ratified deal at 15.5 US cents per kWh, pushing a more connected East African power grid. Mining Reform (Local Voice): Artisanal miners in Embu and Kirinyaga are demanding stronger inclusion in draft mining policy, explosives rules and mine safety/environment regulations. Wildlife Conservation: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust reports Tsavo’s dry season is bringing rescued orphan elephants back to the Ithumba reintegration unit—now with babies and wild companions. Public Health & Cancer: Africa Cancer Foundation launches an endowment drive targeting Sh15m–Sh30m to build a long-term fund for early detection and patient support in Kenya. Youth & Jobs (NYOTA): NYOTA Phase II disbursements continue nationwide, with thousands of youths receiving funding and county top-ups—while officials urge beneficiaries to invest wisely for long-term independence. Corruption Watch: A Nairobi man impersonating a county enforcement officer has been convicted for extorting bribes over impounded motorcycles, with a one-year jail term looming if fines aren’t paid. Snakebite Prevention: Kirinyaga partners with K-SRIC and KIPRE to map snakebite hotspots and guide antivenom distribution, training community health promoters to improve first aid and referrals.

Clean Cooking Push: President William Ruto urged urgent investment and stronger partnerships to expand clean cooking across Africa, warning nearly one billion people still use polluting fuels and that progress could slip on SDG timelines. Youth Enterprise Support (NYOTA): Kenya released over Sh3bn under NYOTA Tranche II, funding 122,000+ young entrepreneurs with Sh25,000 second tranches and first grants for new beneficiaries, plus a two-year waiver on county business permit fees. Climate Action From Policy to Projects: MPs called for faster climate action and better oversight, pushing for “policy to pipeline” delivery and tech-driven accountability through county plans. Clean Cooking Funding Gap: Ruto said universal clean cooking needs about Sh133bn, linking household air pollution to health, education, forests and climate impacts. Soil Health for Higher Yields: FAO’s Soil Doctors Programme is training farmers and extension officers in western Kenya on diagnosing soil problems and using sustainable practices to restore productivity. Wildlife & Land Use: KWS and partners began relocating 56 hippos from Mukindu dam in Nyandarua to reduce human-wildlife conflict after Lake Ol’ Bolossat dried up. Green Mobility Tech Transfer: UNDP and TAILG signed an MoU to set up Africa’s first Green Mobility Centre of Excellence in Kenya, including EV assembly lab investment and skills training. Kenya–EU Trade Strategy: Kenya and the EU launched a roadmap to double trade value in five years, with EU urging diversification beyond agriculture and value addition. Tax Revenue Snapshot: KRA reported manufacturing led tax collections in 2025/26, followed by energy, financial/insurance and retail—sectors that matter for sustainable growth. Conservation in the Spotlight: Sheldrick Wildlife Trust shared a rare look at orphan elephant feeding routines in Kenya, highlighting hands-on care and individual animal behavior.

Green Industry & Mobility: TAILG and UNDP signed an MoU to set up Africa’s first Green Mobility Centre of Excellence in Kenya, including EV assembly lab research, training and battery-swapping standards. Trade & Value Addition: The EU urged Kenya to diversify exports beyond agriculture as it launched the 10-year Kenya–EU EPA implementation strategy to unlock duty-free access and boost jobs. Clean Cooking Push: President Ruto said Kenya needs about Sh.133bn to reach universal clean cooking, cutting indoor air pollution and climate damage. Climate Signals: June 2026 was the world’s second-hottest June on record, NOAA reported. Food Security in Drylands: School farms in Kajiado and Isiolo are improving diets through climate-smart production and training, while Kisumu launched a financing plan for agri-food systems to tackle food poverty. Marine & Plastic Monitoring: Africa expanded a phytosanitary and microplastics monitoring drive, with training now reaching 38 countries. Wildlife Protection: KWS arrested a suspected bushmeat poacher in Kajiado, seizing wildlife meat and items linked to the trade. Local Health & Safety: Kirinyaga mapped snakebite hotspots to guide prevention and antivenom development. Conservation & Tourism: JW Marriott opened a wellness-focused safari camp in Solio, and Wilderness Mara unveiled a redesigned camp in the Maasai Mara.

Housing rights & justice reform: A people-centred justice push argues forced evictions can’t end without overhauling how justice systems work—prioritising housing outcomes, meaningful participation, and ending police violence. Youth enterprise & livelihoods: Kenya’s NYOTA programme is expanding support for young entrepreneurs in Tharaka Nithi, with new funding set to boost both first-time and continuing businesses. Conservation & wildlife care: Kenya Wildlife Service and partners continue rescue and rewilding work, including orphaned elephants and hippos—highlighting both the risks animals face and the value of sanctuary support. Protected areas under pressure: Court action and public scrutiny are intensifying around development inside sensitive sites, including Nairobi National Park and proposals linked to Imenti Forest—raising alarms over lawful, timely public participation. Urban climate-friendly transport: Kisumu launched a Sh306m non-motorised transport expansion and opened Baby Pendo Botanical Park on a former dumpsite, aiming for safer walking/cycling and greener public space. Sovereign Wealth Fund controls: Kenya’s Sovereign Wealth Fund Act now bars high-risk investments, with criminal penalties for misuse—aimed at protecting long-term national savings. Weather watch: Kenya Met forecasts mostly dry conditions with light showers in parts of the coast and some counties, plus strong winds in northern and arid areas.

Geospatial Skills Push: Kenya will harmonise training for surveying, geomatics and geospatial engineering to match digital land administration, climate resilience and urban planning needs. Rehab Raid in Kajiado: NACADA and partners rescued eight foreign nationals from an unlicensed rehab centre, citing rights violations and unsafe care ahead of closure. Machakos Cement Clash: Residents in Kyumbi cut short a public forum over a proposed cement factory after rival groups hurled insults; health risks vs jobs were at the centre of the dispute. Imenti Forest Public Participation Row: Civil society says a KFS forum on an Imenti Forest airstrip was illegitimate and exclusionary, with disruption and allegations of a presentation rather than consultation. Construction Safety Crackdown: ODPP and the National Construction Authority will tighten investigations and prosecutions for illegal developments, negligence and even environmental violations linked to building collapses. Plastics Treaty Pressure: CIEL criticises faltering global plastics negotiations in Nairobi, warning trust in multilateralism is slipping. Blue Economy Accountability: Activists urge that ocean “blue economy” plans include coastal communities in decisions, financing and governance. Marine Tech Upgrade: KPA commissioned a Sh1bn vessel traffic system at Mombasa to improve vessel turnaround and visibility. Corruption Warning: EU outgoing envoy Henriette Geiger calls corruption Kenya’s “Achilles heel,” urging a national reset.