- The Environment and Land Court of the Republic of Kenya hosted a significant event on June 4 in Nairobi, marking the guide of the Environment and Planning Division Working Group
- The event brought together legal experts, environmental advocates, government officials, and members of the public.
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The Environment and Land Court of the Republic of Kenya hosted a significant event on June 4, in Nairobi, marking the guide of the Environment and Planning Division Working Group.
While addressing the media Lady Justice Judy Mogeni said the initiative aims to enhance public awareness and engagement on environmental and land issues, calling for more stakeholders to join their quest highlighting the court's commitment to specialised adjudication in these critical areas.
“The environment requires collaborative efforts by everybody to protect our environment,”Omange said.
The event brought together legal experts, environmental advocates, government officials, and members of the public.
It featured discussions on the importance of specialised judicial units in addressing complex environmental and land-related disputes.
Lady Justice Ann Omollo who also graced the occasion, emphasized the importance of the new division.
"The establishment of the Environment and Planning Division Working Group is a pivotal step in ensuring that environmental issues are handled with the expertise and urgency they require," she said.
Many times land disputes override environmental disputes hence most are left behind creating a backlog in environmental cases being solved.
"This specialised unit will streamline our processes and ensure that justice is not only served but seen to be served in matters affecting our environment,” Omange remarked
“This initiative will also focus on educating the public about their rights and responsibilities regarding land use and environmental protection."
The Environment and Land Court, established under the Kenyan Constitution, plays a crucial role in adjudicating disputes relating to the environment and land.
This specialised court will address issues ranging from environmental protection, climate change issues, mining and minerals land use planning and many others to maintain sustainable development climate change adaptation and environment protection.
The launch of the Environment and Planning Division Working Group signifies the court's dedication to refining its focus and expertise in these areas.
Attendees also discussed the integration of public participate to enable change to be effective in environmental matters.
Experts highlighted how digital tools could facilitate better monitoring, reporting, and management of environmental and land issues, fostering transparency and accountability.
As the Environment and Land Court embark on this chapter, the focus will be on building partnerships with various stakeholders, including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and the private sector.
These collaborations are expected to strengthen the capacity of the court and ensure that environmental issues are addressed comprehensively and collaboratively.
The event concluded with a call to action for all Kenyans to participate actively in environmental conservation and responsible land use.
The Environment and Planning division was launched early last year by Chief Justice Martha Koome and started operations on July 1, 2023.
The Environment and Land Court's new division is poised to become a cornerstone in the country's efforts to balance development and environmental sustainability.