By John Kariuki
The National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) Director General Dr. Mamo B. Mamo has called for stronger collaboration among governments, scientists, and policymakers to address the growing link between environmental degradation, climate change, and public health in Africa.
Speaking during the opening session of the Pan African Environment, Climate Change and Health Conference at Ole Sereni Hotel in Nairobi, Dr. Mamo described the triple planetary crises of climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss as urgent threats to human survival and sustainable development.
The conference, themed “Harnessing Science, Policy and Partnerships for Environmental Sustainability and Climate Health Resilience,” brought together Cabinet Secretaries, international delegates, scientists, and experts from across the continent to explore the intersection between environmental management and human health.
“It is evident from science that we are living in unprecedented times, characterized by rapid environmental changes linked to climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss,” Dr. Mamo said. “These crises are already affecting our economy, agriculture, and most significantly, public health.”
Citing scientific evidence, Dr. Mamo explained that shifting environmental conditions have increased the risks of both communicable and non-communicable diseases. He noted that climate change accelerates mosquito breeding, expanding malaria transmission to high altitude regions that were previously too cold for mosquito survival.
He also referenced studies around Lake Victoria showing that degraded ecosystems, such as disturbed fishing villages, host more snail populations responsible for bilharzia transmission compared to conserved environments, a clear illustration of how environmental degradation amplifies disease risks.
Dr. Mamo highlighted that the growing body of research linking environment, climate, and health provides critical lessons that should guide policy and community action. He emphasized the need for targeted research, stronger partnerships between environment and health sectors, and increased funding to support data driven interventions.
“Most of these challenges are caused by human activities, underscoring the need for behavioral and attitudinal change toward environmental stewardship,” he said. “Public awareness and education remain vital in promoting community participation in conservation and in mitigating the health impacts of climate change.”
Reaffirming NEMA’s role as the country’s lead agency on environmental coordination, Dr. Mamo said the Authority continues to champion sustainable management under its guiding slogan “Our Environment, Our Life, Our Responsibility.”
“This approach has proven effective in rallying the public behind environmental and climate action initiatives, ensuring that no one is left behind in the journey toward sustainable development,” he noted.
The Director General commended the conference organizers for their meticulous planning and the diverse representation of participants, noting that this inaugural Pan African platform marks a significant milestone in continental dialogue on environment and health.
He assured delegates of NEMA’s continued partnership and support for future conferences, adding that the Authority stands ready to integrate actionable recommendations into its national strategies and programs.
“As we begin these three important days of dialogue and knowledge sharing, I urge participants to help translate science into simple, actionable messages that communities can understand and adopt,” he said. “The time to act is now.”