Kenya’s Absence in Global Plastics Pact Sparks Concern Ahead of Talks

By Thuku Kariuki - Kenya’s absence from a landmark plastics declaration at the third UN Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice has raised eyebrows globally. 

Known for its bold environmental policies, including the 2017 ban on plastic carrier bags, Kenya was expected to stand with other nations calling for urgent action on plastic pollution. 

But as 95 countries endorsed the “Nice Wake-Up Call for an Ambitious Plastics Treaty,” Kenya’s silence was loud, prompting questions about its position as the world inches toward a binding agreement on plastics.

The declaration, released on June 13, lays out five key principles for a science-based treaty: adopting a full lifecycle approach to plastic management, limiting production, phasing out hazardous chemicals and problematic plastics, improving product design for sustainability, and ensuring flexibility for the treaty to evolve with scientific and technological advances. 

These principles align with persistent calls from scientists and civil society for comprehensive, upstream interventions, not just end-of-pipe solutions.

“This declaration marks a historic moment, with nearly 100 countries uniting for an ambitious plastics treaty,” said Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of UNCTAD. 

“It’s a strong signal ahead of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee (INC-5.2) in Geneva this August, where the treaty’s final structure will be shaped.” The process, originally expected to conclude in 2024, is now likely to extend into 2025 due to delays.

For a country widely regarded as an environmental leader, Kenya’s decision not to endorse the declaration has been striking. 

With the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) headquartered in Nairobi and a reputation for progressive environmental action, many anticipated Kenya would play a leading role in global plastics governance.

Marine ecologist Kevin Lunzalu of the Wildlife Society offered some perspective. “This is just a statement for now,” he said. “Without binding commitments, it’s hard to hold countries accountable.” 

While symbolic declarations can help shape global momentum, they are not legally enforceable, leaving room for varied interpretations and action.

Plastic pollution remains a deeply layered challenge for Kenya and other African countries. While progress has been made, such as banning certain plastic products, implementation and enforcement face consistent hurdles. Limited funding, informal and poorly regulated recycling systems, and institutional gaps weaken waste management systems. 

“SDG 14; Life Below Water, is chronically underfunded,” Lunzalu noted. “Yet oceans are vital for climate stability, food systems, and coastal economies.”

Plastic waste continues to threaten Kenya’s marine life, fisheries, tourism industry, and public health. As rivers funnel waste into the ocean and microplastics find their way into food chains, the urgency of the issue is undeniable. A legally binding global treaty could help harmonize efforts across borders and hold all parties to a shared standard.

Equity, however, remains a sticking point. Grynspan stressed the importance of a “just transition” during her remarks at UNOC3, cautioning that developing nations must not bear the brunt of compliance. 

“Plastic pollution is a development issue,” she said. “For Africa’s coastal nations, it creates compliance burdens in trade while threatening livelihoods.” 

A strong treaty could enforce caps on plastic production, global chemical safety standards, and regulate the trade in plastic waste. But many African countries worry about being left behind if the treaty does not come with adequate financial and technological support.

The upcoming INC-5.2 negotiations in Geneva this August could be decisive. Developing nations and civil society are pushing for solid commitments to reduce plastic production, a demand fiercely resisted by petrochemical and fossil fuel industries. 

They are also calling for guarantees around financing, technology transfer, and capacity building, to ensure low- and middle-income countries can comply without being economically strained.

“Without enforceable measures, there’s little incentive for responsible plastic production, trade, or disposal,” Lunzalu emphasized.

Kenya’s decision not to sign the Nice Declaration does not erase its environmental achievements. But it does signal the complex balance between national interests, global cooperation, and the realities of treaty commitments. 

As the world turns its eyes to Geneva, the question remains: Will Kenya rise once again to lead, this time by championing a plastics treaty that matches ambition with equity, and responsibility with resilience?