President William Ruto has assented to three major Bills aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness, enhancing forest conservation and promoting equitable development across the country.
In a statement issued after signing the laws, President Ruto said the new legislation will improve government efficiency in responding to disasters, protecting natural resources and addressing development inequalities in marginalized regions.
Among the newly signed laws is the National Disaster Risk Management Act, which establishes a legal framework for handling disasters at both the national and county levels.
According to the President, the law will improve coordination during emergencies and enhance early warning systems to help avert crises before they escalate.
“The National Disaster Risk Management Bill establishes a legal framework for managing disasters more effectively and efficiently,” Ruto said.
The Act also creates the National Disaster Risk Management Authority and County Disaster Risk Management Committees tasked with coordinating emergency responses and ensuring timely delivery of resources to affected communities.
The President also signed the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Act, 2025, which seeks to strengthen conservation efforts and improve sustainable forest management in the country.
Ruto said the law enhances the legal and institutional framework governing the forestry sector while promoting climate-responsive forestry and research.
The Act further strengthens the Kenya Forest Service and re-establishes the Kenya Forestry Research Institute as the country’s lead forestry research institution.
In addition, the President assented to the Equalisation Fund Appropriations Act, 2025, which allocates Sh16.8 billion to 34 marginalized counties for development projects.
The funds will support construction of roads, water projects, health facilities and electricity infrastructure in underserved areas.
According to the Head of State, the allocation will be channelled through special-purpose accounts to ensure the money is used strictly for basic services and development priorities in marginalized regions.
“The Act ring-fences Sh16.8 billion allocated to 34 counties to fund water, roads, health facilities and electricity,” Ruto stated.