Explainer: New Laws to Strengthen Disaster Response, Forest Protection and Support Marginalised Counties

Kenya, 29 May 2026 - Kenya's response to disasters, protection of forests and funding for underserved regions received a major boost on Friday after President William Ruto signed three new laws at State House, Nairobi.

The legislation, which includes the National Disaster Risk Management Bill, 2023, the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Equalisation Fund Appropriations Bill, 2025, is expected to improve how the country handles emergencies, conserves natural resources and supports development in marginalised areas.

The most significant change comes through the National Disaster Risk Management Act, which creates a formal structure for responding to emergencies such as floods, droughts, fires and other disasters.

“It establishes a comprehensive legal and institutional framework for disaster risk management through the creation of the National Disaster Risk Management Authority and county disaster risk management committees,” Deputy Chief of Staff Josphat Nanok said during the signing ceremony.

The new law also gives the President legal authority to declare a national disaster and coordinate large-scale emergency interventions, including evacuation efforts and mobilisation of resources.

At a time when Kenya has faced repeated climate-related disasters in recent years, officials say the legislation will help improve preparedness and speed up response efforts.

The President also signed amendments to the Forest Conservation and Management Act, introducing tougher oversight measures aimed at protecting the country's forests.

“A seminal development introduced by the bill is the establishment of the Directorate of Forest Regulation,” Nanok said.

“The Directorate will be responsible for enforcing compliance with the Act, licensing forest professionals, and promoting adherence to national forest standards.”