President William Ruto has signed three new bills into law, reinforcing the government’s focus on disaster preparedness, environmental conservation, and equitable development. The signing ceremony took place at State House in Nairobi on Friday, marking the eighth time the President has assented to legislation in 2026
The newly enacted laws include the National Disaster Risk Management Bill, 2023, the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Bill, 2025, and the Equalisation Fund Appropriations Bill, 2025. Together, they are designed to enhance governance structures, protect natural resources, and support development in marginalised regions.
The National Disaster Risk Management Act introduces a structured legal and institutional system to better manage disasters in Kenya. It provides for the establishment of a National Disaster Risk Management Authority alongside county-level committees to coordinate response efforts. The law also grants the President authority to declare a national state of disaster when necessary, allowing for swift mobilisation of resources and evacuation measures to protect lives and property during emergencies.
Changes introduced through the Forest Conservation and Management (Amendment) Act aim to improve oversight and sustainability in the forestry sector. A key feature of the law is the creation of the Directorate of Forest Regulation, which will oversee compliance, license forestry professionals, and ensure adherence to national standards. The amendment also encourages greater involvement of communities in conservation initiatives, promoting long-term environmental protection.
The Equalisation Fund Appropriations Act allocates Sh16.2 billion to support development projects in 34 counties identified as marginalised. The funding will be channelled towards critical infrastructure and services in selected constituencies, in line with Article 204 of the Constitution. The initiative is expected to bridge development gaps and improve access to essential services in underserved regions.
According to Deputy Chief of Staff Josphat Nanok, the new laws will improve coordination among institutions and enhance service delivery across key sectors. He noted that the reforms are part of a broader effort to strengthen governance and ensure inclusive growth.
With these latest additions, President Ruto has now signed eight bills into law in 2026, reflecting an active legislative agenda. The new measures are expected to play a significant role in strengthening Kenya’s disaster response systems, protecting its environment, and promoting equitable development nationwide.
