From International Policy to Domestic Practice: Challenges in implementing the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) in Kenya

Abstract

Concern for the well being of the environment is a phenomenon whose history is as old as the history of man himself, and efforts to conserve and preserve various aspects of the environment have been undertaken at various stages of human development. These efforts have crystallized into a body of norms, principles, and regulations, embodied in international environmental conventions to govern the use of our natural resources. States that agree to be bound by these norms, principles and regulations, agree to do fulfill their obligations to ensure that the objectives of these conventions are met. However, the loss of our natural resources is increasing, and this sharply marks a gap between commitment and implementation. This research project examines the reasons behind this gap in Kenya in relation to the Convention on Biological Diversity, and how practitioners would close it. Using information drawn from policy experts, and implementers in the country, the study explores the constraints that contribute to this gap and suggests possible solutions. While these constraints are not germane to the CBD, the findings from this case study can be used to give useful pointers to other regimes since the analytical framework adopted is broad enough to permit linkages. The study concludes that policy formulation should take into account lessons from past related policies. Kenya needs to draw up a compliance action plan to address the issues of inadequate funds, low capacity, lack of coordination mechanisms for implementation of the CBD, and. awareness, so that these constraints do not appear like a 'cut and paste' exercise in every national reporting for the CBD. Until these issues are taken seriously, a gulf will always exist between what the country aims to do and what it actually achieves.