Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to a globally binding treaty to address plastic pollution, advocating for a science-based, well-funded framework during the Second Informal Heads of Delegation Meeting of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC) in Bangkok, Thailand. The East African nation urged member states to resolve lingering disagreements and build consensus toward an effective instrument aligned with UN Environment Assembly Resolution 5/14, which aims to end plastic pollution. Evelyne Ong’ayo, Director in charge of Climate Change at Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, highlighted the importance of addressing plastic pollution across its entire life cycle, stressing the need for
Kenya’s position underscores the necessity of robust financing mechanisms, technical support, and a transparent implementation framework. The country reiterated its call for the treaty’s Secretariat to be hosted at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquarters in Nairobi, a move consistent with efforts to strengthen UNEP’s role. Ong’ayo emphasized that the Bangkok meeting represents a critical opportunity to advance negotiations, building on prior discussions held in Nairobi under the 'Pamoja Umoja' initiative. The Kenyan delegation, led by William Melau of the Directorate of Multilateral Environmental Agreements and Dr. Ayub Macharia of the National Environment Management Authority, is actively engaged in shaping the treaty’s provisions.
The negotiations, taking place at the United Nations Conference Centre in Bangkok, focus on resolving outstanding issues to ensure a legally binding instrument that addresses plastic pollution, including its impact on marine ecosystems. Kenya’s advocacy reflects its broader environmental priorities, as the nation grapples with plastic waste challenges while promoting international collaboration. The proposed treaty aims to establish measurable targets, accountability mechanisms, and support systems to reduce plastic production, enhance recycling, and mitigate environmental harm.
Kenya’s leadership in the talks aligns with its domestic efforts to combat pollution, including policies to curb single-use plastics and promote sustainable waste management. The country’s push for a globally coordinated approach highlights the urgency of addressing plastic pollution as a transboundary issue requiring collective action. As the INC continues its work, Kenya’s emphasis on science, finance, and institutional support underscores the complexity of crafting a treaty that balances environmental imperatives with economic and developmental considerations.