KNATCOM – Kenya National Commission for UNESCO

KNATCOM Celebrates Prestigious Financial Reporting Award

j.gitahi — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 11:49:46 +0000

The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM) secured the 1st runners-up position in the State Corporations and SAGAs Reporting category under the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) Accrual Basis during the #FiReAwards2024 Gala Dinner, held at Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, on 6th December 2024. This achievement is an improvement from last year’s position as 2nd runners-up, reflecting continuous dedication to excellence in financial reporting. The 2024 award theme, “Championing for Effective Sustainability Reporting through Technology and Innovation to Enhance Transparency,” aligns perfectly with Kenya’s statutory financial reporting requirements and Article 232 of the Constitution, which emphasizes values of transparency and the provision of timely, accurate information. This recognition is a testament to KNATCOM’s professionalism, commitment to public accountability, and unwavering pursuit of excellence. The 2024 FiRe Awards were organized by promoters of esteemed institutions: the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK), Capital Markets Authority (CMA), Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), Public Sector Accounting Standards Board (PSASB), and Retirement Benefits Authority (RBA). Leading the KNATCOM team to receive the award were Board Chairperson Prof. Mohamed S. Rajab, alongside Board Members Ms. Florence Chemtai, Mr. Abraham Ondeng, and Mr. Stephen Mau. They were joined by Ag. Secretary General/CEO Dr. James Njogu, and a dedicated team of staff from various departments and sections. KNATCOM’s Board and Management congratulated the entire team for this stellar performance. While celebrating this milestone, the achievement also serves as a challenge and inspiration to aim for the top position in the coming year. As the Board Chairperson, Prof. Mohamed S. Rajab, aptly remarked, “Hard work has placed the Commission on the path to being the very best, and together, we can reach that pinnacle.”

Teachers Trained on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support and CBC Implementation.

j.gitahi — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 04:44:13 +0000

Teachers Trained on Mental Health and Psychosocial Support and CBC Implementation.

Kenya National Commission for UNESCO conducted a training for the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) Regional and County Directors on; Mental Health and Psychosocial Support, and Competency Based Curriculum Implementation and Assessment at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development 16^th -20^th September 2024. The meeting was graced by the CEO TSC represented by the Director of Administrative service Mr. Mumin, Chief of Education UNESCO ROEA Mamadou Lamine Sow and the Secretary General KNATCOM Dr. James Njogu.

Congratulations to Four Kenyans for Winning UNESCO Scholarships and Awards for 2024

j.gitahi — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 05:45:23 +0000

Four (4) Kenyans are recipients of two respective UNESCO scholarships and awards –UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowship Programme in Engineering and the UNESCO MAB Young Scientists Award. Chepkurui Janet and Muthiani Perpetua Ndumi are recipients of the UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowship Programme in Engineering. The two are two of the 30 global recipients drawn from 22 countries.   Six Kenyans were beneficiaries of the same fellowship in 2023.
The UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowship Programme offered by UNESCO, the Polish National Commission for UNESCO and the UNESCO Chair for Science, Technology, and Engineering at the AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow (Poland) will run for six (6) months, commencing in October 2024. During the fellowship, Janet Chepkurui will focus on artificial intelligence during which she will design robotic systems capable of managing data flows functioning through the interaction of physical, network and computational components to enable smart applications and real-time operation. Perpetua Muthiani will be working on assessment of geoinventory and valuation of geological elements and geodiversity at selected sites in Kenya.
Nevil Sigana and Faith Obwoyere are recipients of the UNESCO MAB Young Scientists Award. This award targets young researchers carrying out interdisciplinary research in line with UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme and priority is given to projects carried out in biosphere reserves on ecosystems, natural resources and biodiversity. Nevil research will focus on documentation of local and indigenous knowledge systems in the conservation of Malindi-Watamu-Sokoke Biosphere Reserve while Faith focus on land use practices-seasonal climatic variations-human-wildlife conflicts nexus in Mount Elgon Biosphere Reserve with implications for conflict management and peace building.
To increase uptake of UNESCO fellowships, prizes, awards and grants, Kenyans are encouraged to apply for these opportunities when the next call is made in 2025.

“The award of these scholarships and grant to Kenyans is a testament of the many opportunities that exists that thrust UNESCO indeed as a capacity builder, clearing house for information, laboratory of ideas and a catalyst for international cooperation in the areas of education, sciences, culture and communication and information. I congratulate the winners and wish them well as Kenya’s ambassadors as they pursue their fellowship, translate and implement the many creative ideas towards addressing the challenges that we face as a country and as a global community”

Dr James Njogu

Ag. Secretary General/CEO

TVET Trainers challenged to embrace emerging technologies for effective delivery of high-quality Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) content to spur innovation and promote entrepreneurship and job creation.

j.gitahi — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 08:43:04 +0000

TVET Trainers urged to embrace emerging technologies for effective delivery of high-quality Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)

TVET Trainers poses for a group photo during the capacity building workshop for TVET Trainers on emerging technologies
The Commission organized a capacity building workshop for TVET Trainers on emerging technologies that brought together 35 participants from Kakamega, Bungoma, Busia and Vihiga Counties. The workshop is meant to integrate 21st Century learning design and ICT tools to enhance training of skills in TVET that meet the skills demand while leveraging on digital transformation and the opportunities associated with the 4^th Industrial revolution.
The event was graced by the Dr Boniface Okoth, County Executive Committee Member in charge of Education, Science and Technology, Kakamega County, Dr Ing Calvin Onyango the Director General of Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI) and Dr James Njogu HSC the Ag. Secretary General/CEO of Kenya National Commission for UNESCO.
TVETs are engines for leapfrogging the country development to a double-digit economy as well as achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in context of Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) in Kenya. During the opening ceremony, Dr. Njogu challenged the participants to promote the development of skills that address the existing skills gaps, foster entrepreneurship and leverage on green economy to innovate and for job creation. He noted that this is consistent with the UNESCO TVET Strategy 2022-2029 that empathizes promotion of skills development for empowerment, productive employment and decent work and facilitate the transition to a more digital, green, and inclusive societies.
Facilitators were drawn from critical institutions including Kenya Industrial Research and Development Institute (KIRDI), Micro and Small Enterprises Authority (MSEA), The Technical and Vocational Education and Training Authority (TVETA), NuElectric, (South Africa), Asah Creative Solutions, and State Department of Higher Education and Research.
This is one of the series of workshops that the Commission has been undertaken in various Counties in the Country.

High Level Conference and workshop on Climate Change Education

j.gitahi — Fri, 01 Dec 2023 08:39:48 +0000

The Principal Secretary, State Department of Basic education in the Ministry of Education Dr Belio Kipsang together with the Acting Secretary General. Kenya National Commission for UNESCO Dr James Njogu plant a tree during the official opening of the High Level Conference and workshop on Climate Change Education at Ole Sereni Hotel,Nairobi on 27th November 2023

Six Kenyans Awarded UNESCO/Poland Engineering Scholarships.

j.gitahi — Fri, 04 Aug 2023 11:50:24 +0000

Six (6) Kenyans have won the prestigious UNESCO/Poland Co-Sponsored Fellowship Programme in Engineering under the auspices of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) and Poland.
The fellowships offered by UNESCO, the Polish National Commission for UNESCO and the UNESCO Chair for Science, Technology, and Engineering at the AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow (Poland) will run for six (6) months, commencing on 2nd October 2023.The Programme seeks to promote human resource capacities in science and engineering in the developing countries and to enhance international understanding and friendship among peoples.
The six were part of the seven applications that were submitted, reviewed, endorsed and forwarded by the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO to UNESCO   for consideration.
The six (Eric Kimathi Kamwara, Eva Mithiri Wainaina, Jane Njoki Nderu, Lenson Wangila, Shalom Chemutai Maina, and Wycliffe Onsongo Nyakenucha) will join other 24 recipients drawn from Africa; Arab States; Asia and the Pacific; and Latin America and Caribbean for a six-month fellowship at AGH University of Science and Technology in Krakow, Poland starting on 2nd October 2023 to 30th March 2024. The awardees will pursue Mechanical Engineering, Transport Engineering (1 awardee); Environmental Engineering, Mining and Energy (1 awardee); and Earth and Related Environmental Sciences (4 awardees).
“The award of these fellowships to Kenyans is a demonstration long established relation and the support and benefits associated with being part of the UNESCO networks while ensuring that Kenyans reap the full benefit through access to opportunities”, stated Dr. James Njogu, Ag. Secretary General/CEO, KNATCOM.
Fore more information on the upcoming UNESCO Fellowships https://www.unesco.org/en/fellowships

Mt. Elgon Biosphere Reserve in Kenya and Uganda enjoined and designated as second UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserve in Africa

j.gitahi — Thu, 22 Jun 2023 17:34:53 +0000

In a significant stride towards environmental conservation, the Mount Elgon UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserve has been designated as the second of its kind in Africa during the 35th Session of the UNESCO MAB International Coordinating Council held on 12-14^th June 2023 in Paris, France.

This remarkable achievement marks a milestone in preserving the unique biodiversity and rich ecosystems associated with this majestic mountain ecosystem located on the border of Kenya and Uganda. The Mount Elgon Ecosystem is important in providing a stream of ecosystem services such as climate change mitigation, carbon sequestration, hydrological cycle and watershed functions, soil protection, habitat for species of global conservation concern, recreation and spiritual well-being, food among others. Conserving this important ecosystem is important if these benefits can be sustained for perpetuity as part of efforts to promote sustainable conservation. With a total Core zone of 165,575 Ha, a Buffer zone of 125,142 Ha and a Transition of 297,630 Ha, this new designation provides sufficient habitat for species with a large geographical ranging behaviours and support ecological processes including that are range restricted or globally threatened species.

The designation of Mount Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve reaffirms the commitment of both Kenya and Uganda towards developing a joint framework in conservation efforts. The reserve will serve as a hub for scientific research, education, and sustainable development. Local communities will play an integral role in the management and governance of the reserve, ensuring that their livelihoods are harmonized with nature and cultural preservation through their activities especially within the Transition zone.

The designation of the Mount Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve is a result of close collaboration between Kenya and Uganda, demonstrating their shared commitment to conserving this unique natural treasure. This designation also strengthens Africa’s global recognition as a frontrunner in sustainable development and biodiversity conservation.

The designation of the Mount Elgon Transboundary Biosphere Reserve as Africa’s second Transboundary biosphere reserve is an inspiring development in the realm of environmental conservation. This accolade not only safeguards the diverse ecosystems and endemic species found within the region but also nurtures sustainable development and fosters community engagement. As Mount Elgon proudly joins the coveted list of UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserves, it serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the invaluable partnership between human and nature. It is the second Transboundary Reserve in Africa and the first in Eastern and Southern Africa and brings the total number of Biosphere Reserves on the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves to 748 sites in 134 countries, including 23 transboundary sites.

“With this designation, it is envisaged that it will promote transboundary collaboration and enhanced coordination of management of natural resources that straddle national boundaries. The designation which has taken many years to be realized, will ensure the biosphere reserve is functional, promote the MAB brand to pursue conservation of flora and fauna, exchange of experiences, capacity building, promotion of local livelihoods and transborder priority programmes, projects and activities”

Dr James Njogu,

Ag. Secretary General/CEO, Kenya National Commission for UNESCO

KNATCOM Natural Science Programme Receives “Kulturweit” Exchange Program Volunteers

j.gitahi — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 07:34:56 +0000

The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO, through the “Kulturweit” Exchange Program, recently received six (6) German volunteers. The exchange program, done in partnership with the German National Commission for UNESCO, promotes multiculturalism for peace, sustainable development and intellectual collaborations. It is envisaged that through cultural collaborations, the world can achieve commonly shared global visions of sustainable development in line with UNESCO’s mission.

The Kulturweit program aspires to encourage north-south cultural exchange among youth of partner states, with the vision building a culture of peace and intercultural dialogue through education, the sciences, culture, communication and information. During their period, the volunteers will be assigned, various tasks to gain experience and knowledge in their respective areas of posting. Two will be stationed at the KNATCOM’s Head Offices and four will be posted to Mount Elgon and Mount Kenya Biosphere Reserves.

The day-to-day work exposure in Biosphere Reserve allow the volunteers to understand the concept of Biosphere reserve better and gain real time experience in their management. This is possible as they interact with managers of the core area and the buffer and also interactions with local communities in the transition zone. They will also gain experience in ecology, sustainable management in terms of conservation and resource use and other social economic and cultural aspects of the local communities. At the same time, the volunteers would actively support KNATCOM’s areas of work such as implementation, of activities, administration, community engagement, among others including organization of events and reporting.

The exchange programme aspires that by the time of their return, the volunteers will have made good use of all their new experiences and appreciated different ways of living and working. It is also envisaged that they will have expanded competencies of work for a more multicultural society, and have broadened their perspective on global contexts.

Volunteers in this picture (from left to right): Elisabeth Barth, Elisa Eggers, Raphael Putz, Celly Fischer, Viktor Kusmanow, Charlotte Jagla together with Dr. Joel Ongoto (KNATCOM Ag. Deputy Secretary General, Research and Resource Mobilization)

Volunteers in this picture (from left to right): Elisabeth Barth, Elisa Eggers, Celly Fischer, Charlotte Jagla, Vera Nickel together with Sammy yegon, Warden, William and Victor Mwamutsi (KNATCOM) at Mt. Elgon National Park, Kenya.

MAB Youth sensitization Webinar on UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserves

j.gitahi — Mon, 19 Sep 2022 13:33:07 +0000

MAB Youth sensitization Webinar on UNESCO Man and Biosphere Reserves

A sensitization webinar bringing together youth from Kenya’s six (6) Man and Biosphere Reserves (MAB) was hosted by the Kenya National Commission (KNATCOM) for UNESCO in collaboration with the Kenya Man and Biosphere Committee on Thursday 8^th September 2022. The webinar brought together over 70 MAB Youth Forum members from Kenya’s unique globally recognized biosphere reserves, namely Malindi-Watamu Araujo Sokoke; Amboseli; Mount Kenya-Lewa; Mount Kulal; Mount Elgon; and Kiunga Marine Biosphere Reserves. A total of 120 youths have been identified to be part of the MAB Youth Forum for Kenya.
During the opening session, the KNATCOM Secretary General, Dr. Evangeline Njoka, underscored the role played by biosphere reserves as critical fragile ecosystems that offer essential ecosystem services such as climate change mitigation, carbon sequestration, hydrological cycle and watershed functions, soil protection, habitat for species of global conservation concern, recreation and spiritual well-being, food among others. She underpinned the need to conserve them actively as this would contribute to sustainable development at local, national, regional and global levels.
Dr. Njoka emphasized that Africa and Gender Equality Global priorities are top on the UNESCO Agenda while youth are priority groups and therefore UNESCO Man and Biosphere Programme has since 2016 prioritized youth engagement in biosphere reserves. Dr. Njoka challenged the youth to be catalysts of positive change and use this MAB Youth Forum as a platform as they engage in conservation and management discourse and decision making at local, national and global levels. She noted that youth can be champions of peace and sustainable development and pledged the Commitment of the Commission to walk with them as they embark on this journey. She called upon the youth to support in activities lined up to celebrate the MAB programme as it celebrates the Golden Jubilee after fifty years in existence and also participate in activities to mark the International Day of Biosphere Reserves on 3^rd November 2022.
The Chair of the National MAB Committee, Mr. Boniface Wanyama (NACOSTI) thanked the youth for attending the session and applauded Kenya National Commission for UNESCO for coordinating and hosting the workshop. During his presentation “MAB Programme from Global to local” emphasised on the need for enhanced active participation, youth voices, and engagement is core to the management of MABs and natural resources in general as this is critical to sustainable development. He presented the evolution of the UNESCO MAB Youth Forum and the achievements made to date. He also presented the status of the MAB programme in Kenya, reiterating the Kenya MAB National Committee’s commitment to engage with youth to drive social innovation and change.
During the session, Ms. Rebecca Yego, who is the MAB Youth Spokesperson for Africa highlighted her involvement in MAB activities both locally, regionally and globally appreciating the opportunity that this has given her to be part of conservation debate at various levels. She acknowledged the support accorded to her by the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO by nominating her and giving her an opportunity to raise the voice of the youth in global forums and debates.
As part of sharing experiences across biosphere reserves, Mr. Tonderai Makoni, Director of Vhembe Biosphere Reserve and guest speaker, emphasised on the role of the youth in management and conservation of biosphere reserves. He challenged the youth to be active in policy debates, biosphere reserves awareness; participate in training programmes that help enhance skills. Sharing some of the success stories of youth engagement in South Africa, Mr Makoni committed to continue sharing lessons learnt for the betterment of the Kenya MAB Youth Forum.
Dr. Eshiamwata the Deputy Director, Natural Sciences at the Commission also emphasized the need for Kenya MAB Youth leverage on the opportunities including the UNESCO prizes and awards such as UNESCO MAB Young Scientist Awards; global policy forums such as climate summits and Conferences of Parties and commemoration of International Days to amplify youth voices and engagement. He encouraged them to document ongoing activities in their respective biosphere reserves and promote information sharing.
The excited youth thanked KNATCOM hosting this inaugural sensitization forum promising to actively engage and leverage on this opportunity to network. In conclusion the MAB Chair urged the youth to come up with a governance structure and prepare a plan with activities to be undertaken while using this as a resource mobilization tool

Happy Mashujaa Day

j.gitahi — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 05:50:06 +0000

The Board, Secretary General and staff of Kenya National commission for UNESCO wish all Kenyans a Happy Mashujaa Day.
Happy Mashujaa Day