The University of Nairobi (UoN) hosted the first-ever Nairobi Environmental Diplomacy Symposium and the launch of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' legacy publication, *"Celebrating 60 Years of Environmental Diplomacy,"* at UoN Towers.

During her welcoming remarks, Professor Leonidah Kerubo, Dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology, representing the Vice Chancellor of UoN, stated, "As we gather here today in this auditorium, we need to reflect on the words of the great daughter of Kenya, the 2014 Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wangari Maathai, who said: 'Nature is kind, but it could be unforgiving if abused. Let us not be part of those who participate in the abuse.'"

Musalia W. Mudavadi, the Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign & Diaspora Affairs, delivered the keynote speech. He emphasized the need to harness this strong institutional presence to provide global leadership on environmental issues. He also underscored the Government's commitment to ensuring a pollution-free country by raising public awareness and promoting discussions on sustainability.

Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng'eno, Principal Secretary, State Department for Environment & Climate Change at the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change & Forestry, delivered a speech on behalf of the Cabinet Secretary. 

Various speakers from different sectors emphasized the need to strengthen the bond between science and policy to protect and sustain the environment, as well as the right to a safe environment. Challenges related to environmental resource mobilization were also discussed, citing the alarming loss of 73% of wildlife over the past 70 years. This underscores the need to invest in nature, with an estimated $200 billion USD required annually to address the issue. 

The "30 by 30 nature goal," aimed at conserving 30% of the environment by 2030, was also discussed.

Kenya will proudly host UNEA-7 later this year, further demonstrating the government's commitment to environmental sustainability.