Government Launches Natural Assets Mapping Reports to Boost Climate Resilience in Dry lands
By Samson Kurgat – Nairobi, Kenya
The Government has launched Natural Assets Mapping and Inventory Reports for Samburu, Isiolo and Laikipia counties in a move aimed at strengthening environmental conservation, climate resilience and evidence-based land-use planning. Speaking during the launch in Nairobi, Principal Secretary for Environment and Climate Change Dr. Eng. Festus Ng’eno said the reports will provide critical data to guide sustainable development, protect ecosystems and support informed investment decisions across Kenya’s drylands.
Dr. Ng’eno noted that Kenya’s arid and semi-arid lands occupy nearly 90 percent of the country’s land mass and are home to globally significant wildlife, pastoral livelihoods, tourism and indigenous knowledge. However, he warned that these landscapes face increasing pressure from climate change, land degradation, population growth and competing land uses, making reliable environmental data essential for effective planning.
National Land Commission Chairperson Dr. Abdillahi Saggaf Alawy said the reports identify and map critical natural assets including rivers, wetlands, wildlife corridors, grazing reserves and other ecologically important landscapes. He added that the initiative combines indigenous knowledge with modern geospatial technology to improve land governance, conservation and climate adaptation while ensuring communities remain central to protecting natural resources.
The government said the reports will support county spatial planning, environmental governance, sustainable investments and conflict prevention over natural resources. Dr. Ng’eno emphasized that the reports should serve as practical tools for policymakers, researchers, investors and local communities rather than remaining on shelves, noting that healthy ecosystems are fundamental to economic growth, water security and livelihoods.
The launch brought together national and county government officials, development partners, researchers and community representatives, who were urged to adopt the reports’ recommendations and strengthen partnerships to safeguard Kenya’s natural heritage for future generations.
