President William Ruto has assented to three key Bills aimed at strengthening disaster response, enhancing forest conservation, and promoting equitable development across the country.
The newly signed laws include the National Disaster Risk Management Bill, the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Equalisation Fund Appropriations Bill, 2025.
The National Disaster Risk Management Act establishes a legal framework for handling disasters more effectively at both the national and county levels. The law seeks to improve preparedness, coordination, and response during emergencies and crises.
Under the Act, the National Disaster Risk Management Authority and County Disaster Risk Management Committees will be established to coordinate disaster response, issue early warning alerts, and ensure timely distribution of resources to affected communities.
President Ruto said the law is critical in strengthening the country’s capacity to avert disasters and respond efficiently whenever they occur.
The Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Act, 2025, is expected to bolster Kenya’s environmental conservation efforts by strengthening the legal and institutional framework governing the forestry sector.
The law promotes sustainable forest management, climate-responsive forestry, conservation, and forestry research. It also strengthens the Kenya Forest Service (KFS) and re-establishes the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI) as the country’s lead forestry research institution.
Meanwhile, the Equalisation Fund Appropriations Act, 2025, seeks to deepen devolution and bridge development gaps in marginalised regions.
The Act ring-fences Sh16.8 billion allocated to 34 counties to support projects in water, roads, health facilities, and electricity.
According to the President, the funds will be channelled directly into special-purpose accounts instead of County Revenue Funds to ensure the money is used strictly for basic services in underserved areas.
Ruto noted that the three laws are part of the government’s broader agenda to strengthen governance, protect natural resources, and ensure inclusive national development.