Kenya's Permanent Representative to UNEP and UN Habitat Amb. Macharia Kamau presents credentials to UNON Direcor General Achim Steiner

Kenya’s Permanent Representative to UNEP and UN-Habitat Ambassador Macharia Kamau on October 1 2009 presented his credentials to Mr. Achim Steiner, UNEP Director General. Mr. Steiner is also the Executive Director to the United Nations Offices in Nairobi (UNON).

Presenting the credentials, H.E Ambassador Kamau said Kenya and the United Nations have cordial relations which go back to independence. He added that Kenya has cooperated, and continues to cooperate with the United Nations in many areas, including security and development. Ambassador Kamau noted that the presence of UNON in Nairobi confirms the confidence of the United Nations of Kenya.

The Ambassador hailed the mutual understanding and close cooperation between Kenya and UNON and hoped that the relationship could be taken to a higher level. He however observed that Kenya is not represented satisfactorily at the UN offices, considering that the UN complex is on Kenyan soil. He further urged the Director General to increase job opportunities for Kenyan professionals at UNON.

Speaking during the occasion, Mr. Steiner said UNON is keen on fostering closer ties with Kenya on various sectors. He reiterated the commitment of UNEP in undertaking joint development projects with Kenya. Currently UNEP has initiated a project to restore Mau complex, which is being destroyed at a fast rate. He was concerned that the water catchment area faces the risk of extinction if appropriate measures are not taken.

On environmental sustainability, the Director General hailed the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources for cleaning Nairobi River which was heavily polluted. He said UNEP supports the initiative to restore the depleted Mau forest, clean-up of Nairobi River and rehabilitation of Dandora Damp site.

Mr. Steiner revealed that UNON is currently in the process of constructing new offices that will accommodate all UN agencies within the same compound. He expressed optimism that with the completion of the new offices, UNON will have the capacity to execute duties effectively and conveniently. He hoped that this will also create more jobs for Kenyans.