Botswana President Mokgweetsi Masisi is set to highlight Botswana’s proactive approach to environmental stewardship when he participates in the Sixth Session of the United Nations Environment Assembly scheduled to take place in the Kenyan capital Nairobi this week.
The Assembly, set for Wednesday and Thursday, is expected to bring together a diverse array of global leaders, including heads of state, government ministers, business executives, and environmental activists.
Delegates are expected to deliberate on critical issues, including strategies to combat land degradation and desertification, which threaten ecosystems and livelihoods; measures to mitigate air pollution, a growing concern affecting public health and the environment; and efforts to safeguard Earth’s rich biodiversity and address the alarming decline of species and habitats.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Botswana government said Masisi would deliver the country’s statement during the high-level segment of the Assembly.
“The President will deliver Botswana’s Statement at the High-Level Segment on 29th February 2024 where, among others, he will highlight ways in which Botswana is addressing environmental challenges and contributing towards international environmental governance,” the government said in a statement.
In his address, Masisi is expected to highlight Botswana’s proactive approach to environmental stewardship, with key points including the robust policies and initiatives that the government has implemented to tackle environmental issues within its borders. These include sustainable land management, wildlife conservation, and climate resilience strategies.
Botswana actively contributes to international environmental efforts by participating in forums like the UN Environment Assembly. The country advocates for equitable solutions and collaborative action.
This year’s session is being held under the theme of “Effective, Inclusive, and Sustainable Multilateral Actions to Tackle Climate Change, Biodiversity Loss, and Pollution”.
The theme of environmental multilateralism underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing the triple planetary crisis – climate change, nature loss, and pollution.
On the margins of the Assembly, Masisi is scheduled to engage in bilateral discussions with his Kenyan counterpart William Ruto to strengthen ties between the two nations and explore avenues for cooperation.
The Botswana leader is expected to visit the Kenya Animal Genetic Resources Centre, seeking ways to strengthen collaboration in the agricultural sector, particularly in animal husbandry, dairy, and beef production.
JN/APA