REPUBLIC OF KENYA

FINAL

DRAFT (Revised)

SESSIONAL PAPER

ON

NATIONAL WETLANDS CONSERVATION AND MANAGEMENT

April 2008
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Foreword 4

Introduction 6

Background 6
Types and distribution of wetlands 6
Existing policies and legislation 6
Wetlands policy formulation process 6

Principles, Goals and Objectives 9

Principles 9
Goal 9
Objectives 9

1.0 Importance, Significance and Values of wetlands 11

1.1 Wetlands Functions and Services 11

1.2 Wetland Products 13

2.0 Challenges and Strategies in Wetlands Conservation and Management 14

2.1 Challenges and threats 14

2.1.1 Reclamation and Conversion of wetlands 15

2.1.2 Overexploitation of goods and services 15
2.1.3 Pollution, Eutrophication and Salinisation of wetlands 16
2.1.4 Alien Invasive Species 16

2.2 Conservation and management 16

2.2.1 Ownership of wetlands 17

2.2.2 Establishment of wetland conservation areas 17
2.2.3 Wetlands of International importance 18
2.2.4 Restoration and Rehabilitation of wetlands 18
2.2.5 Artificial Wetlands 18
2.2.6 Trans- boundary wetlands 18

2.3 Research awareness and education 18

2.3.1 Inventorying, Monitoring and Information Systems 18

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2.3.2 Capacity and Human Resource Development 18
2.3.3 Education and Public Awareness 18
2.3.4 Wetlands, User rights and livelihoods 19
3.0 Legal and Institutional Arrangements 20
3.1 Legal and legislative reforms 20
3.2 Institutional arangements 20
3.3 Resource Mobilization 21

4.0 Sector linkages at National and international levels 22

4.1 Coordination with related policies 22

4.2 Promoting International Cooperation, obligations and Actions
4.3 Gender and youth issues 23
4.4 Non-State Actors 23
4.5 HIV/AIDS 23

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FOREWORD
Wetlands are highly productive ecosystems being only second to the tropical rainforests. They
perform many functions that maintain the ecological integrity of the systems and also provide many
goods and services. The functions and benefits provided by wetlands are especially important for
the general public as they support agriculture, tourism, industry, biodiversity conservation, social
economic and cultural activities.

Kenya has a variety of wetlands that stretch from coastal and marine wetlands to inland freshwater
lakes, rivers, dams and swamps as well as the saline lakes of the rift valley system, constructed
wetlands in irrigation schemes and sewerage treatment systems and the mountain bogs, peat and
glacier lakes. Some of these wetlands are recognized as important conservation areas like
National parks, National reserves, Ramsar sites, Important Bird Areas and World Heritage Sites.
Apart from being biodiversity hotspots, the wetland resources are equally crucial for income
generation, livelihood and well being of the communities

However, due to lack of effective management mechanisms and proper appreciation of their true
worth, wetlands have continued to be degraded through unsustainable activities, conversion and
overexploitation of their resources. The pressures to wetlands have been exercabated by
catchment degradation and pollution leading to proliferation of invasive species.

The Kenya government has recognized the importance of wetlands and their contribution to her
gross domestic product. Kenya ratified the Ramsar convention (Ramsar, 1971) in 1990 and has
since embarked on comprehensive reforms to address sustainable utilization of wetland resources.

In the past, Kenya pursued a sectoral approach to conservation and development, which has not
addressed the cross cutting environmental and conservation issues. This has led to intersectoral
inconsistencies leading to further loss of the country's natural resources including wetlands. The
integrity of wetland ecosystems is very much dependent on the conservation of catchment areas
which have suffered immensely as a result of encroachment and massive deforestation.

In recognition of the need to involve more actors to ensure an integrated and harmonized conservation
and management by the government as well as the other affected players, the government has seen the
need for a national policy framework. The Policy seeks to ensure that the plans and activities of the
government and wetland stakeholders promote conservation and sustainable/ wise use of
wetlands. It provides a framework for actions to improve institutional and organizational
arrangements, address legislation and government policies, increase knowledge and awareness of
wetlands and their values, review the status of and identify priorities for wetlands in a national
context, and address problems at particular wetland sites.

The development of this Policy is in cognizance of the importance of wetlands nationally and
Kenya’s obligation under the Ramsar Convention. The policy takes into consideration the broader
national environmental frameworks, particularly the Environment Management and Coordination
Act (EMCA) 1999, the country’s premier framework environmental law, the Water Act 2002, the
Water Policy and the Forest Policy 2007.

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The policy spells out clearly eight objectives to achieve its aim. These are;

i. Establish an effective and effecient institutional and legal framework for integrated
management and wise use of wetlands which will provide an enabling environment for the
participation of all stakeholders.

ii. Enhance and maintain functions and values derived from wetlands, protect biological
diversity and improve essential processes and life-support systems of wetlands.

iii. Promote communication, education and public awareness among stakeholders to enhance
their participation in wetland conservation.

iv. Carry out demand driven research and monitoring on wetlands to improve scientific
information and knowledge base.

v. Enhance capacity building within relevant institutions and for personnel involved in
conservation and management of wetlands.

vi. Establish a national wetlands information management system and database including tools
and packages to targeted groups.

vii. Promote innovative planning and integrated management approaches towards wetlands
conservation and management in Kenya

viii. Promote partnership and cooperation at regional and international levels for the
management of transboundary wetlands and migratory species.

The Government is committed to the implementation of this Policy, and acknowledges that
development of implementation plan(s) and mechanisms for cross-sectoral coordination will be
critical in ensuring the usefulness of the policy in wetland conservation and management.

Honourable John Michuki EGH MP

Minister for Environment and Mineral Resources.

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INTRODUCTION
Wetlands Policy formulation process
Wetlands are areas permanently or seasonally flooded by water where plants and animals have
become adapted and include swamps, marshes, bogs, shallow lakes, ox-bow lakes, dams, river
meanders and floodplains, as well as riverbanks, lakeshores and seashore where wetland plants
grow. It also includes marine and intertidal wetlands such as deltas, estuaries, mud flats,
mangroves, salt marshes, sea grass beds and shallow reefs.

Globally, wetlands occupy about 6% of the earth’s surface. Kenya's wetlands occupy about 3% to
4%, which is approximately 14,000 km2 of the land surface and fluctuates up to 6% in the rainy
seasons. They provide many ecological and socio-economic goods and services. These include
water supply, food production, construction materials, and products for the cottage industry,
tourism and recreation. The ecological services comprise flood control, water recharge and
discharge, water filtration, nutrient storage and re-cycling and wildlife habitats.

The process of developing a National Wetland Conservation and Management Policy in Kenya has
taken over ten years (1997- 2008). The need and obligation to have a National policy on wetlands
conservation has been felt since 1990 when Kenya ratified the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands.
The policy was required to mitigate the impacts of high human population increase, escalating
pressure on land and natural resources and to provide a vision to mitigate the diverse challenges
that affect wetlands conservation and wise use.

The principle of broad consultation with and participation of all key stakeholders guided the policy
formulation process. The process took into account the stakeholders’ contributions and
recommendations on all pertinent issues touching on the management of wetlands in Kenya.

The policy development process involved gathering of scientific knowledge on wetlands

conservation and wise use. Technical and professional capacity which was provided at the initial
stages of the policy by a secretariat, a national steering committee, hired consultants and other
resource persons who were engaged to steer the process. At a later stage a national task force
was constituted under the supervision and guidance of National Environment Management
Authority (NEMA). At the initial stages financial resources and related logistics were availed by
various donors to enable the team to visit the provinces and wetland sites to collect information and
for consultations with stakeholders. The policy was finalized by a National Task Force coordinated
by NEMA which falls under the Ministry of Environment and Mineral Resources.

In order to mitigate the loss and degradation of wetlands and to give prominence to wetland values
and functions in decision-making, this national policy for conservation and management of
wetlands is a priority. The policy aims at enhancing conservation and wise use of wetlands as well
as promoting recognition of wetlands as an integral component of the environment. Furthermore,
the policy ensures that wetlands contribute to sustainable development and improvement of
livelihoods at local and national levels.

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The national wetlands conservation and management policy complements the other sectoral
policies on environment and development. Adoption of the policy also fulfills Kenya’s obligations
under the Ramsar Convention and other relevant Multilateral Environmental Agreements and
Protocols.

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Background
Types and distribution of wetlands
Kenya has a variety of wetlands that stretch from coastal and marine wetlands to inland freshwater
lakes, rivers, dams and swamps as well as the saline lakes of the Rift Valley system, constructed
wetlands in the irrigation schemes, sewerage treatment systems and the mountain bogs, peat and
glacier lakes. Some of these wetlands are recognized as important conservation areas such as
National parks, National reserves, Ramsar sites, Important Bird Areas and World Heritage Sites.
Apart from being biodiversity hotspots, the wetland resources are equally crucial for income
generation and a source of livelihood and well-being of the communities

The distribution of Kenyan wetlands depends largely on the amount of rainfall and to some extent
on the landform. The area covered by each type of wetland has not been worked out at the
national level. Kenya also shares several drainage basins and wetlands with neighboring countries.
These trans-boundary wetlands and water catchment areas present unique challenges in the
sustainable management of wetland resources

Existing policies and legislation

There are more than 77 sectoral pieces of legislation on wetlands inscribed under various Acts all
relevant to wetlands conservation and management. This had resulted into duplications and
conflicts. The existence of all these frameworks however has not created the desired impact thus
the need for a national wetland policy to be in place. Further the development of this National
Wetlnds Policy is expected to guide the various aspects relating to wetland use and development.

PRINCIPLES, GOAL, AND OBJECTIVES

The challenges affecting wetlands are impacting negatively on their ability to function optimally,
thereby impeding their sustainable use and contribution to socio-economic development. In order
to address the challenges, the National Wetlands Conservation and Management Policy is guided
by the following principles .

Principles

I. Wise use: Due to the significant contribution of wetlands to the health and well being of
Kenyans, wetlands should be integrated into national economic planning for sustainable
development, wealth creation and environmental management

II. Precautionary principle: Where information is inadequate for decision making, the
precautionary principle will apply. Lack of full scientific information should not prevent
implementation of measures to minimise/ manage wetland degradation

III. Collaborative and participatory approach: An integrated approach to wetland

conservation and management should involve stakeholders at all levels including;
government, local community, civil society and the private sector.

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 IV. The global dimension: the global dimension of environmental impacts of actions and
policies should be recognised and considered

V. Polluter pays principle: Persons who pollute wetland environments should meet the cost of
cleaning them up, and also meet the cost of the pollution to resource users.

Goal
The goal of the National Wetlands Conservation and Management Policy is to ensure wise use and
sustainable management of wetlands in order to enhance sustenance of their ecological and socio-
economic functions for the present and future generations of Kenya.

Objectives

i. Establish an effective and effecient institutional and legal framework for integrated
management and wise use of wetlands which will provide an enabling environment for the
participation of all stakeholders.
ii. Enhance and maintain functions and values derived from wetlands in order to protect
biological diversity and improve livelihood of Kenyans.
iii. Promote communication, education and public awareness among stakeholders to enhance
their appreciation and participation in wetland conservation.
iv. Carry out demand driven research and monitoring on wetlands to improve scientific
information and knowledge base.
v. Enhance capacity building within relevant institutions and for personnel involved in
conservation and management of wetlands.
vi. Establish a national wetlands information management system and database including tools
and packages to targeted groups.
vii. Promote innovative planning and integrated management approaches towards wetlands
conservation and management in Kenya
viii. Promote partnership and cooperation at regional and international levels for the
management of transboundary wetlands and migratory species.

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1.0 IMPORTANCE, SIGNIFICANCE AND VALUES OF WETLANDS
Wetlands Functions, Products and services
Wetlands are known to perform crucial functions and provide vital products and services essential
for environmental integrity and human well being. Being hugely diverse in their interactions, they
have developed intricate relationships with human livelihood patterns and environmental
phenomena influencing human behavior and environmental characteristics/features wherever they
occur. In more recent times, the quantification of these products and services has revealed
enormous economic value never imagined before.

1.1 Wetland Functions and Services

1.1.1 Flood Control and Soil Erosion Prevention: Wetlands act as sponges, absorbing excess
storm water from heavy rainfall, thereby ensuring flow regulation/ flood control and soil erosion
prevention. Floodwater can be stored in the soils or retained as surface water, thereby reducing
floodwater volumes downstream. In addition, wetland vegetation slows down the flow of floodwater
resulting in silt and sediment retention and riverbank protection. Besides reduction of flooding
events downstream, this process also ensures river flows are maintained for longer periods.
Wetland vegetation also shields the soil from damage by strong waves and wind.

Policy Statement 1: Enforce relevant regulations and laws that promote maintenance of ecological
integrity of wetlands.

Policy Statement 2: Support application of standard procedures and processes for developments
with potential for changing the status of wetlands.

1.1.2 Water Discharge and Recharge: The retention ability of wetland enables them to discharge
and recharge both surface and ground water resources respectively. The impeded drainage allows
the water to stay in one place long enough to maximize infiltration, enhancing recharge of
groundwater and aquifers. Excess water in wetlands and aquifers discharges into springs, rivers
and other water bodies. Aquifers also play a complementary role by recharging wetlands during dry
spells.

Policy Statement 1: Promote measures that ensure protection of water sources

Policy Statement 2: Seek to promote and encourage sustainable use of ground water supply.

1.1.3 Water Purification, Nutrient and Toxic retention: Wetland vegetation absorbs nutrients
and toxic substances from inflowing water thereby improving the quality of water downstream.
Nutrients and toxic substances originate from agricultural, domestic and industrial sources. The
materials eroded in the watershed are filtered by the wetland vegetation resulting in water
purification. The sediment retained in the wetland protects downstream resources, such as dams,
farmlands, rivers and lakes from silting. Sediment retention in the flood plains benefits agriculture
by renewing nutrients and soil.

Policy Statement 1: Institute measures for efficient waste management from point sources.

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Policy Statement 2: Support and promote enforcement of relevant regulations and laws related to
environmental pollution.

1.1.4 Carbon Storage: Wetlands are among the most effective ecosystems for carbon storage.
The wetland vegetation takes up carbon from the atmosphere and converts it into plant biomass
during the process of photosynthesis. In many wetlands, waterlogged soil conditions prevent
decomposition of the plant material thereby retaining carbon in the form of un-decomposed organic
matter (Peat). The long retention of carbon in wetlands prevents excessive amounts of
atmospheric carbon, thereby reducing global warming. The retained carbon is easily released into
the atmosphere wherever peat lands are drained and exposed to fires.

Policy Statement 1: Promote and support conservation measures to maintain wetland ecosystem
health.
Policy Statement 2: Institute measures to discourage the drainage of peat lands

1.1.5 Wildlife Habitats and Reservoirs/ Centers of Biodiversity: Wetlands are natural habitats
for a variety of plants and animals some of which are of conservation significance including
endemic, endangered and migratory species. Wetlands are also in-situ banks for genetic
resources. Thus, the management of wetlands for biodiversity conservation is critical.

Policy Statement: Promote ecosystem-based approach to management of wetland areas.

1.1.6 Prevention of Saline water Intrusion: Wetlands are essential for maintaining a buffer zone
between freshwater and saline water. The destruction of wetlands due to over-extraction or
drainage reduces the influx of freshwater and hence increases the intrusion of saline water.
Intrusion of saline water deprives people, agriculture, industry, and ecological communities of
valuable freshwater arable land and pasture.

Policy Statement: Put in place measures to regulate developments which may lead to saline
water intrusion.

1.1.7 Energy Production: Wetlands provide energy in various forms, the most important being
hydropower generation and plant biomass. Several hydroelectric power plants have been
constructed especially on the upper reaches of the Tana, Kerio and Sondu Miriu Rivers. Reeds
such as Papyrus sp. and Phragmites sp. are harvested and dried to provide a source of fuel.

Policy statement : Promote use of alternative energy sources in order to reduce the pressure on
wetlands and maintain their ecological integrity.

1.1.8 Research and Education: Many wetlands are important sites for scientific research and
education. They are often used to study long term global environmental status and trends.
Research areas within wetlands include ecology, archaelogy, ornithology, hydrology, geology,
pollution control, medicine, agriculture, climatology, and paleolimnology.

Policy statement 1: Encourage and promote establishment of wetland education centres

countrywide.

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Policy statement 2: Publish regular education and research materials to provide continuous upto
date information for better management of wetlands.

1.1.9 Transport and Communication: In many wetland areas, water transport is a common
medium of conveying goods and people. It is efficient and cost effective compared to other modes
of transportation.

Policy statement 1: Promote measures to encourage use of effecient and sustainable water
transport.
Policy statement 2: Encourage the use of environmentally friendly technology to minimize
pollution

1.1.10 Religious and Cultural Significance: Wetlands are important historical sites that comprise
important components of Kenya’s cultural heritage. Local communities have strong attachments to
the sites because of their social, cultural and spiritual importance. The communities also promote
indigenous knowledge and practices on environmental functions and values that are essential for
their survival.

Policy statement 1: Promote recognition and application of traditional indigenous knowledge in

wetland management.
Policy Statement 2: Encourage community parcitipation through establishment of local
management institutions and structures.
Policy Statement 3: Promote the conservation of wetlands of religious and cultural significance

1.2 Wetland products

1.2.1 Fish and other food products:Wetlands sustain commercial and subsistence/ artisanal
fisheries in many areas. Their importance as fish nursery grounds and for replenishing natural
stocks is recognised for over 70% of fish species globally. Fish farming within wetland areas is
increasingly becoming an important alternative to natural production.

Policy Statement 1: Promote efficient techniques and technologies for harvesting and processing
fish and other food products within wetlands
Policy Statement 2: Promote conservation measures that protect fish nurseries and breeding
grounds.

1.2.2 Soil and Minerals:Wetlands are major sources of clay and sand products such as bricks and
ceramics. They are also essential sources of minerals such as sand and salt.

Policy statement 1: Regulate production and extraction of mineral products.

Policy Statement 2: Encourage rehabilitation and restoration of degraded mining sites

1.2.3 Wildlife and plant products: Wetlands provide a number of wildlife resources and products.
These include reptile skins and ornamental (aquarium) fish. Many communities are increasingly
harvesting these resources to enhance and improve their livelihoods. Wetland plants are also

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harvested to provide materials for construction and thatching, the cottage industry, canoes, fishing
baskets and traps. Wetland plants are also used for medicinal purposes and as a food source.

Policy statement 1: Promote sustainable extraction and utilization of products derived from
wetlands.
Policy Statement 2: Develop appropriate marketing infrastructure for wetland products for
maximum benefits to the community.

1.2.4 Tourism and Recreation: The nature and serenity of wetlands makes them important
ecotourism and recreation centres. The presence of a wide range of wildlife species as well as their
aesthetic value makes them a unique attraction for tourism, which is an important foreign exchange
earner at the national level and source of livelihood for local communities.

Policy Statement: Promote development and establishment of recreation and eco-tourism

facilities.

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2.0 CHALLENGES AND STRATEGIES IN WETLAND CONSERVATION AND
MANAGEMENT

While wetlands have the potential of contributing significantly to the socio-economic development
of Kenya, they face diverse and severe threats. These threats include among others inappropriate
human activities within the catchments and in the wetlands, lack of coordinated and holistic policy
guidelines, and climate change. The threats have induced changes that have eroded the ecological
and socio-economic values and services derived from wetlands. The underlying threat remains
lack of recognition of the importance of wetlands and the roles they play in both the national
economy and community livelihoods.

The following issues have been identified as critical in addressing the challenges of wetland
conservation and management.

2.1 Challenges and Threats

2.1.1 Reclamation and Conversion of wetlands

Drainage and reclamation of wetlands for agricultural development, human settlement and
industrial development is one of the biggest threats to wetland conservation and management. In
the past, wetlands have been regarded as “wastelands”, which harbour disease vectors. This has
led to large-scale drainage and conversion for alternative uses without regard to ecological and
socio-economic values.

Policy Statement 1: Drainage and reclamation of wetlands will not be allowed unless a greater
public interest is demonstrated.
Policy Statement 2: Any alteration of a wetland for public interest will be subject to Environmental
Assessment (EA), cost benefit analysis, and wide stakeholder consultations.
Policy Statement 3: Any conversion should be in harmony with the integrity of the wetland, and
maintain the functions of the wetland.
Policy Statement 4: Undesirable plant species that negatively impact the hydrology of the wetland
will be disallowed, and where already introduced, will be replaced with appropriate wetland plants.
Policy Statement 5: Uncontrolled burning of wetland biomass will be prohibited.

2.1.2 Overexploitation of wetland goods and services

Increasing human populations and change from subsistence to commercial exploitation of wetland
resources continue to exert increasing pressures on limited wetland resources, resulting in a
decline of services and quality as well as quantity of products derived from wetlands.

Policy Statement 1: Abstraction of water will be strictly regulated and will require meeting laid
down standards and regulations.
Policy Statement 2: Exploitation of goods and services from wetlands will be regulated to ensure
that the integrity of wetlands is maintained.
Policy Statement 3: Sustainable production capacities of the different goods and services
provided by the wetlands will be established and periodically reviewed.
Policy Statement 4: Safe extraction levels for different resources including water, fish and plant
products, will be based on established capacities and relevant legislation.

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Policy Statement 5: Limits will be set for non-consumptive uses of wetland resources to maintain
the health and functioning of the system.
Policy Statement 6: Priority will be given to subsistence and environmental needs before
considering commercial interests.
Policy Statement 7: Site-specific participatory Management Plans will be developed to guide the
use of wetlands resources with due consideration of existing legislation, traditional practices and
management systems

2.1.3 Pollution, Eutrophication and Salinisation of wetlands

The quality of many water sources in Kenya is declining as a result of municipal, agricultural and
industrial wastes/ discharges. These have negatively impacted water quality and biodiversity
within the wetland ecosystems thereby reducing their values. Increased nutrient loads have led to
eutrophication and episodes of algal blooms in wetlands near major settlements. In certain areas
excessive abstraction of fresh waters, diversions, and catchment degradation, have led to
increased salinity.

Policy Statement.1: Appropriate measures will be taken to protect riverbanks and lakeshores.
Policy Statement 2: Dumping of waste in wetlands will be disallowed and disposal sites close to
wetlands will be subjected to an Environmental Impact Assessment.
Policy Statement 3: Any effluent discharged into wetlands will be regulated and treated to meet
appropriate wastewater standards beforehand.
Policy Statement 4: Environmentally friendly farming techniques that reduce nutrient, silt and
pollutant loading in the wetlands will be promoted.
Policy Statement 5: Public awareness on proper management of waste including reduction, reuse
and recycling will be promoted.
Policy Statement 6: Coordination and enforcement of sectoral laws will be enhanced

2.1.4 Alien Invasive Species

Wetlands are highly vulnerable to alien and potentially invasive species. Many wetlands have in the
past been affected by the introduction of alien invasive species that have altered the biodiversity
characteristics and diminished the services provided by wetlands. For example, the introduction of
Nile perch nearly eliminated the indigenous fish species of Lake Victoria while water hyacinth,
Salvinia sp, and Typha sp. have affected numerous wetlands. Introduced species easily occupy
new niches due to lack of competition and predators.

Policy Statement 1: Introduction of alien and potentially invasive species without due appraisal of
their potential impacts on wetlands will be prohibited.
Policy Statement 2: Conditions that are conducive for the establishment and proliferation of
invasive species will be managed.
Policy Statement 3: Guidelines, regulations and procedures will be developed and enforced to
control introductions of alien and genetically modified organisms.
Policy Statement 4: Public education and awareness campaigns on the dangers of alien species
will be carried out, and stakeholders will be involved in the management of wetlands threatened by
invasive species.
Policy Statement 5: Research on alien species will be conducted to develop strategies and
actions to manage them.

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2.2 Conservation and management

Wetlands fall into the three systems of land tenure in Kenya namely, Government, private (freehold
and leasehold) and trust land. Ownership of un-alienated land is vested in the state as government
land while trust land is held by local authorities in trust for the local communities. Under freehold,
the absolute ownership of that land is vested in the person together with all rights and privileges.

Due to the different tenure systems, wetlands have been subjected to diverse uses and
management regimes some of which have affected them adversely.

Policy Statement 1: Put in place appropriate regulations and legislation for proper conservation
and management of wetlands.
Policy Statement 2: Natural wetlands under private ownership will be subject to regulations.
Policy Statement 3: All wetlands classified under Ramsar Convention criteria will be declared a
public resource.
Policy Statement 4: Those wetlands in private ownership meeting the criteria set in (2.2.1.3)
above will be the subject of compensation.
Policy Statement 5: Appropriate buffer zones will be delineated within which human activities will
be controlled.
Policy Statement 6: Wetlands under private ownership will be managed subject to guidelines and
rights of user granted by the policy or national law.
Policy Statement 7: Cultural and traditional practices for use of wetland resources will be
permitted.
Policy Statement 8: Any land resulting from receding of natural wetlands shall continue to remain
inalienable state land and be regarded as riparian land and shall not be allocated as private land.
Policy Statement 9: Newly forming wetlands will be protected based on their characteristics and
subject to environmental easement.
Policy Statement 10: Communal ownership of wetlands will be encouraged.
Policy Statement 11: Artificial wetlands will remain under private ownership but will be subject to
(2.2.1.6) above.
Policy Statement 12: Wetlands depend on inflows and catchment integrity, and therefore land use
in the catchment shall take due consideration of the wetland(s) downstream.

2.2.2 Establishment of Wetland Conservation Areas

Many critical wetland areas provide vital services such as biodiversity reservoirs, water sources
and cultural values. The Government has established parks and reserves to ensure that they are
adequately protected. However these are not sufficient to conserve Kenya’s wildlife biodiversity.

Policy Statement 1: Wetlands providing vital biodiversity services and other unique benefits will
be accorded protection and conservation status necessary for the maintenance of their functions.
For such important wetland areas, consumptive uses will be prohibited.
Policy Statement 2: Fragile wetland ecosystems will be identified based on biodiversity
significance, hydrological value, and historical cultural values.
Policy Statement 3: Identified sites will be designated as conservation areas to be protected as
wetland reserves. No consumptive uses will be allowed.
Policy Statement 4: In designating such sites the representative nature of different services of
wetlands will be taken into consideration.
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Policy Statement 5: Appropriate management plans will be developed and implemented through a
consultative process for wetland reserves.

2.2.3 Wetlands of International importance

Kenya is a signatory to the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands and as such is required to identify
critical wetlands based on biodiversity and representativeness. So far five sites have been listed
under these criteria as wetlands of international importance. They include Lakes Nakuru, Naivasha
Baringo, Bogoria and Elementeita. A number of other wetlands e.g. Tana Delta have been
identified and are in the process of being designated. In spite of their designation, Ramsar sites
have continued to face severe threats mainly from anthropogenic activities.

Policy Statement 1: Ensure the domestication and institutionalization of the Ramsar Convention
Policy Statement 2: Identify and list wetlands that fulfill Ramsar criteria as Ramsar Sites
Policy Statement 3: Ensure effective management to maintain the ecological integrity of Ramsar
sites

2.2.4 Restoration and Rehabilitation of Degraded Wetlands

Many wetlands have been degraded through drainage, pollution, sedimentation, introduction of
exotic species, catchment degradation, over exploitation of resources, upstream damming and
diversion among others. The benefits derived from these wetlands have therefore been lost or
reduced.

Policy Statement 1: Restoration and rehabilitation programs will be developed and implemented
for degraded wetlands
Policy Statement 2: In restoring degraded areas the indigenous vegetation and other biodiversity
will be given priority.
Policy Statement 3: Where feasible natural regeneration will be allowed for degraded wetlands as
part of the restoration process.
Policy Statement 4: Locally available appropriate technology and involvement of local
communities will be employed where possible.
Policy Statement 5: Rehabilitated wetlands will be monitored to ensure maintenance of integrity
and functions.
Policy Statement 6: Catchment developments and land uses will be coordinated to ensure
sufficient inflows and reduced pollution and siltation.

2.2.5 Artificial Wetlands

Artificial wetlands have gained prominence worldwide as alternative technologies in wastewater
treatment, food production and aesthetic uses. In Kenya the use of these types of wetlands has
been minimal despite their huge potential for affordable wastewater treatment and other uses.

Policy Statement 1: Promote the use of artificial wetlands in the relevant sectors such as
industries, sources of water for increased agricultural production, municipalities, hotels,
communities among others, as way of reducing pressure on natural wetlands.
Policy Statement 2: Demonstration and training sites will be established to promote the use and
benefits of constructed wetlands.
Policy Statement 3: Establishment of fishponds for food production in local communities will be
promoted as part of the National food security program.
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Policy Statement 4: Resource use in hydro power reservoirs will be diversified.

2.2.6 Trans- boundary wetlands

A number of transboundary wetlands are shared between Kenya and its neighbours. These include
Lakes Victoria, Turkana, Jipe and various rivers such as Ewaso Ngiro South, Sio, Malakisi, and
Mara. These wetlands face various conservation and management challenges and there is need
for collaborative measures on their management.

Policy Statement 1: Develop harmonized regional approach for sustainable management of

transboundary wetlands including development of harmonized policies.
Policy Statement 2: Promote partnership and cooperation at regional levels for the management,
sustainable use and sharing of benefits from transboundary wetlands

2.3 Research education and awareness

2.3.1 Inventorying, Monitoring and Information Systems

Currently a comprehensive monitoring system for wetlands is virtually non-existent and as a result
decisions affecting wetlands are based on inadequate information. The data necessary for
informed decision-making is unavailable, incomplete or unreliable and most often presented in an
unusable format.

Policy Statement 1: Wetland conservation and management must be based on sound scientific
principles.
Policy Statement 2: A full inventory of all wetlands in Kenya will be carried out to determine their
location, type, status, values and threats. The information acquired must be made available to the
wetland managers and local communities in a form that they can utilize.
Policy Statement 3: Monitoring protocols and data management will be standardized
Policy Statement 4: An accessible central wetlands information center will be set up.
Policy Statement 5: Indigenous knowledge will be documented and incorporated in decision-
making.

2.3.2 Capacity and Human Resource Development

One of the reasons for the degradation of wetlands has been the inadequate human capacity to
manage, understand and give appropriate guidance on wetland management. There are
inadequacies in the number of personnel knowledgeable in the effective management of wetland
resources.

Policy Statement 1: Measures will be implemented to enhance the capacity for sustainable
management through infrastructure and human resource development, communication and
information provision.
Policy Statement 2: Empowerment and training of local communities will be promoted as cost
effective and efficient method of inventorying and monitoring.
Policy Statement 3: A framework to build capacities for wetlands conservation and management
at the local and national level in all sectors that have a bearing on wetlands management will be
developed.
Policy Statement 4: Capacity for carrying out Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) on
proposed wetland development projects will be strengthened.
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Policy Statement 5: Promote adoption of wetland conservation and management in formal
curricula at all levels.
Policy Statement 6: Infrastructure for inventorying, monitoring and management of wetlands will
be improved.

2.3.3 Education and Public Awareness

Wetlands are often degraded because the public is either not fully aware of or does not appreciate
the diversity of their functions and values. Education and public awareness is essential to create
commitment and positive attitudes towards conservation and sustainable utilization of wetland
resources.

Policy Statement 1: Promote education and public awareness on wetland resources to encourage
understanding and participation of the public, private sector, local authorities, NGOs and other
interested parties through all appropriate means.
Policy Statement 2: Incorporate wetland conservation and management issues into the national
environmental education strategy and other available and relevant systems
Policy Statement 3: Develop wetland demonstration projects to give local communities,
government officials and students a better understanding of sustainable wetland conservation
issues and their importance.
Policy Statement 4: Monitor public response on the need to conserve wetlands in Kenya.

2.3.4 Wetland user rights and livelihoods

The government recognizes the important role that these benefits play in the livelihoods of wetland
adjacent communities. People living adjacent to wetlands have been deriving benefits from them
for many years. These benefits may include trees products, reeds, water supply, fishing and
grazing. Any change of use of a wetland must allow those traditional uses to continue without loss
or hindrance of any other user. However, it’s important to note that wetland benefits are not limited
to wetland adjacent communities only. In order to improve the livelihoods of all communities who
depend on wetlands, the government will;

Policy Statement 1: Encourage sustainable use of wetland resources by communities.

Policy Statement 2: Protect the traditional interest of local communities customarily resident within
or around a wetland.
Policy Statement 3: Respect and promote cultural practices that are compatible with sustainable
wetland management.

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3.0 LEGAL AND INSTITUTIONAL ARRANGEMENTS
3.1 Legal Legislative Reforms
The Kenyan Government has undertaken reforms aimed at conservation of environmental
resources including wetlands. This includes enactment of legislations related to conservation and
management of wetlands in the country. The relevant laws include the Environment Management
and Coordination Act (EMCA 1999) section 42, the Lakes and Rivers Act cap 409, and the Water
Act (2002) which deals with management, conservation and control of water sources.

The government has also developed strategies for water services development and water
resources management. It has also gazetted subsidiary legislation aimed at protection of wetlands.
These include the Water Resources Management Rules 2007, Environmental Management and
Coordination Water Quality Regulations 2006, that set stringent standards for effluent discharge
into aquatic bodies.

In-spite of the above reforms Kenyan wetlands are still greatly threatened by degradation.

Policy Statement 1: Monitor and ensure implementation of the National Wetlands Policy through
development of appropriate legislation
Policy Statement 2: Mechanism for reviewing Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) on
proposed development projects in wetland areas should ensure use of relevant expertise.
Policy Statement 3: Develop wetlands conservation and management guidelines, regulations and
procedures.
Policy Statement 4: Integrate wetland concerns into all sectoral reforms

3.2 Institutional Arrangements

Lack of a holistic institutional framework has affected wetland management in Kenya. Different
aspects of wetland conservation and management are handled by different agencies, such as
KWS, fisheries, water, regional development authorities, agriculture, local authorities, and
communities, without clear legal framework. This has therefore meant that no single agency is in
charge of overall coordination. This status highlights the fact that wetlands have often been
marginalized and regarded as “wastelands” and this neglect has contributed to massive wetland
loss and degradation.

Policy Statement 1: The government will identify a National Institution to spearhead and
coordinate implementation of the policy
Policy Statement 2: Establish a National Wetlands Interministerial Steering Committee to guide
implementation of the policy bearing in mind that wetlands are cross sectoral resources.
Policy Statement 3: Measures to establish site management committees made up of adjacent
communities to conserve and manage wetlands at national level and their respective wetlands at
local level.
Policy Statement 4: Encourage development of stakeholder management plans for wetlands with
clearly defined management regimes centered on local community participation.
Policy statement 5: Promote implementation of water resources strategic management plans

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3.3 Resource Mobilization
Sustainable financial resources have remained the principal impediment to promoting sustainable
development and environmental protection. National budgetary resources have failed to
adequately provide for wetland conservation and management. As a result, the country has faced
constraints in effectively responding to challenges of wetland conservation and management.

Policy Statement 1: Adequate and reliable resources to be mobilized from government,

development partners, private sector and other agencies to support conservation and management
of wetlands.
Policy Statement 2: Wetland communities will be encouraged to forge partnerships with the
private sector to assist in conservation and management of wetlands.
Policy Statement 3: Initiatives that enhance access to multilateral funding aimed at conservation
and management of wetlands shall be supported.

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4.0 SECTOR LINKAGES AT NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL LEVELS
4.1 Coordination with related policies
Pressures and demands imposed on wetland ecosystems and resources are often caused or
influenced by external factors from other sectors. For this reason sectoral policies including those
on water, land, wildlife and agriculture should have a clear linkage to the wetlands policy. There is
need to create synergies between the policies that govern local authorities as well as land use. An
appropriate mechanism for achieving harmonization of the various sectoral policies that touch on
wetlands should be put in place.

Policy Statement 1:Identify appropriate mechanisms to achieve harmonisation of various sector

policies that touch on wetlands .

4.2 Promoting International obligations

A number of International Agreements, Protocols and Conventions impact on wetlands. These
include the Ramsar Convention, The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification, and the
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). Kenya appreciates their positive impacts on sustainable
wetland management and will continue to play an active role in their implementation.

The global implications of wetlands should therefore be considered in accordance with the regional
and international agreements, conventions, protocols and other instruments in which the country
has an interest so as to recognize the multiple roles of wetlands and tap further investment in the
sector from new international agreement.

Policy Statement 1: Mainstream the provisions of relevant conventions and agreements into the
existing institutional and legal frameworks
Policy statement 2: Promote synergy and a coordinated national approach towards domestication
of Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) relevant to weltands

4.3 Gender and youth issues

Traditional gender roles have inhibited the participation of women and youth in wetland
management. Initiatives by women and youth have convincingly demonstrated the necessary and
potential value of their participation in wetland management at the community level. They therefore
need to be involved in wetland management:

Policy Statement 1: Endeavor to deliberately involve women and youth in participatory wetland
management.
Policy Statement 2: Encourage the proportional representation of the youth, women, vulnerable
and marginalized groups in the management of wetlands.

4.4 Non-State Actors

Non state actors, including Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs), Professional Associations,
and the Private Sector have in-depth experience in wetland related matters. Their experiences will
be fully utilized through mechanisms to be jointly developed with the government. Collaboration
between these actors, government agencies, and local authorities will be developed.

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Participatory wetland management will be enhanced, by involving concerned non-state actors and
local communities in planning and implementation of wetland conservation activities. This approach
will be used to plan and implement wetland management plans to bring on board other
stakeholders in wetland management.

Policy Statement 1: The government will encourage non-state actors and local communities to
undertake wetland –related conservation activities.

4.5 HIV/Aids
The HIV/Aids pandemic has had far reaching impacts on wetland management.The pandemic has
caused a shortage of both skilled and unskilled labour throgh illness and death thereby
undermining wetland activities.The fight against HIV/Aids needs to be mainstreamed in all wetland
programmes and projects. This entails an evaluation on how the pandemic will affect the
implementation of this policy, for example through labour and skill shortages.

Policy Statement 1: Wetland programmes and projects will mainstream the fight against HIV/Aids
as one of their core activities.
Policy Statement 2: Encourage sustainable exploitation of wetland plants in treatment of
HIV/AIDS and related infections.
Policy Statement 3: Awareness creation programmes on HIV/AIDS prevention will be initiated
among wetlands users.

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