Environment and Climate Change Principal Secretary Festus Ng’eno has called for stronger protection of the environment, saying it is key to the growth of Kenya’s blue economy.
Speaking during the Engineering Partnerships Convention 2026, Ng’eno said the country’s plans to expand its maritime and aquatic sectors will only succeed if environmental conservation is taken seriously.
He noted that Kenya is making efforts to grow sectors linked to the ocean and water resources, but warned that such growth must be done in a careful and sustainable way.
“Our blue economy can only grow if we protect the environment,” he said.
Ng’eno pointed out that natural resources such as oceans, wetlands, mangroves and coastal areas are not just there for beauty, but support jobs, food and the economy.
He urged engineers, planners and investors to think about the environment from the start when putting up projects. According to him, issues like pollution control, proper planning and restoring damaged ecosystems should be given priority.
“Such environmental issues cannot be ignored if we are to achieve sustainable development,” Ng’eno stated.
The PS stressed that Kenya is well-positioned to lead by example if various stakeholders, including the government, the private sector, and local communities, collaborate with each other.
“Environmental conservation does not mean stifling development, but ensuring that our development benefits today’s and tomorrow’s generations,” Ng’eno said.