Connect with us

News & Analysis

The Global, Regional and National Framework for Achieving Net Zero

Published

on

By Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, C.Arb, FCIArb is a Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution at the University of Nairobi, Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration, Leading Environmental Law Scholar, Respected Sustainable Development Policy Advisor, Top Natural Resources Lawyer, Highly-Regarded Dispute Resolution Expert and Awardee of the Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) of Kenya by H.E. the President of Republic of Kenya. He is The African ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, The African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, ADR Practitioner of the Year in Kenya 2021, CIArb (Kenya) Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 and ADR Publisher of the Year 2021 and Author of the Kenya’s First ESG Book: Embracing Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) tenets for Sustainable Development” (Glenwood, Nairobi, July 2023) and Kenya’s First Two Climate Change Law Book: Combating Climate Change for Sustainability (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023), Achieving Climate Justice for Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023) and Promoting Rule of Law for Sustainable Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, January 2024)*

The need to reduce emissions from greenhouse gases is set out under the United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change (UNFCCC). The Convention seeks to achieve the stabilization of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system (Emphasis added). It further urges countries to undertake several measures in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions such as implementing national and regional measures aimed at mitigating climate change by addressing anthropogenic emissions; and promoting and cooperating in the development, application and diffusion, including transfer, of technologies, practices and processes that control, reduce or prevent anthropogenic emissions of greenhouse gases.

Further, the Kyoto Protocol commits industrialized countries and economies in transition to limit and reduce greenhouse gases emissions in accordance with agreed individual targets. It requires these countries to implement measures and policies geared towards achieving their emission limitation and reduction commitments towards combating climate change. These measures include enhancement of energy efficiency; promotion of sustainable forms of agriculture in light of climate change considerations; fostering research on, and promotion, development and increased use of, new and renewable forms of energy, of carbon dioxide sequestration technologies and of advanced and innovative environmentally sound technologies and cooperation between states to enhance the individual and combined effectiveness of their policies and measures adopted towards confronting climate change.

The idea of achieving net zero is enshrined under the Paris Agreement. The objective of the Agreement is to strengthen the global response to the threat of climate change, in the context of Sustainable Development and efforts to eradicate poverty through holding the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursuing efforts to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels; increasing the ability to adapt to the adverse impacts of climate change and foster climate resilience and low greenhouse gas emissions development, in a manner that does not threaten food production; and making finance flows consistent with a pathway towards low greenhouse gas emissions and climate-resilient development.

The Paris Agreement provides that in order to achieve the long-term temperature goal set out in Article 2, Parties shall aim to reach global peaking of greenhouse gas emissions as soon as possible, recognizing that peaking will take longer for developing country Parties, and to undertake rapid reductions thereafter in accordance with best available science, so as to achieve a balance between anthropogenic emissions by sources and removals by sinks of greenhouse gases in the second half of the 21st century, on the basis of equity, and in the context of Sustainable Development and efforts to eradicate poverty. It has been argued that in order to achieve the target set out under the Paris Climate agreement to limit global warming to no more than 1.5°C, greenhouse gas emissions need to be cut in half by the year 2030, and to reach net-zero, by the year 2050. IPCC further points out that the world needs to reach net zero by around 2050 if it is to meet the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C.

Achieving net zero is envisaged under the Glasgow Climate Pact which was adopted at COP 26. Under the Pact, Parties recognize that limiting global warming to 1.5 °C requires rapid, deep and sustained reductions in global greenhouse gas emissions, including reducing global carbon dioxide emissions by 45 per cent by 2030 relative to the 2010 level and to net zero around midcentury as well as deep reductions in other greenhouse gases. The Pact also requires Parties to implement and communicate long term low greenhouse gas emission development strategies referred to in Article 4, paragraph 19, of the Paris Agreement towards just transitions to net zero emissions by or around midcentury, taking into account different national circumstances. Actualizing the aspirations of the Glasgow Climate Pact is vital in achieving net zero emissions.

At a regional level, the East African Community (EAC) Climate Change Policy recognizes the adverse impacts of climate change as a major challenge to socio-economic development globally. The Policy’s overall climate change mitigation objective is to promote Sustainable Development in the region while contributing to the global efforts of reducing emissions of greenhouse gases through the Clean Development Mechanisms, Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions, Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation or through any other future agreements.

The Policy notes that although the EAC region has negligible contribution to global greenhouse gases emissions, it is still important for the region to contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases through the preparation of Nationally Appropriate Mitigation Actions (NAMAs) for sectors with potentially high emission factors and take other relevant measures. These include sectors such as energy, transport, agriculture, waste management and industry. Implementing this Policy can accelerate the race towards net zero emissions within the EAC.

At a national level, the Climate Change Act of Kenya seeks to enhance the national response to climate change and achieve low carbon climate development for Sustainable Development. The Act sets out several ways of achieving this goal which include reducing emissions intensity by facilitating approaches and uptake of technologies that support low carbon, and climate resilient development. The Climate Change Act has since been amended by the Climate Change (Amendment) Act59 of 2023 in order to enhance climate change mitigation and adaption measures in Kenya through the concept of carbon markets.

*This is an extract from the Article: Achieving Net Zero Emissions- A Reflection, Available at: http://kmco.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/ Achieving-Net-Zero-Emissions-A-Reflection.pdf (29th February 2024) by Hon. Prof.  Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution, Senior Advocate of Kenya, Chartered Arbitrator, Kenya’s ADR Practitioner of the Year 2021 (Nairobi Legal Awards), ADR Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 (CIArb Kenya), African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, Africa ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, Member of National Environment Tribunal (NET) Emeritus (2017 to 2023) and Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration nominated by Republic of Kenya. Prof. Kariuki Muigua is a foremost Environmental Law and Natural Resources Lawyer and Scholar, Sustainable Development Advocate and Conflict Management Expert in Kenya. Prof. Kariuki Muigua teaches Environmental Law and Dispute resolution at the University of Nairobi School of Law, The Center for Advanced Studies in Environmental Law and Policy (CASELAP) and Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies. He has published numerous books and articles on Environmental Law, Environmental Justice Conflict Management, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Sustainable Development. Prof. Muigua is also a Chartered Arbitrator, an Accredited Mediator, the Managing Partner of Kariuki Muigua & Co. Advocates and Africa Trustee Emeritus of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators 2019-2022. Prof. Muigua is a 2023 recipient of President of the Republic of Kenya Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) Award for his service to the Nation as a Distinguished Expert, Academic and Scholar in Dispute Resolution and recognized among the top 5 leading lawyers and dispute resolution experts in Band 1 in Kenya by the Chambers Global Guide 2024 and was listed in the Inaugural THE LAWYER AFRICA Litigation Hall of Fame 2023 as one of the Top 50 Most Distinguished Litigation Lawyers in Kenya and the Top Arbitrator in Kenya in 2023.

References

Africa Union., ‘Agenda 2063: The Africa we Want.’ Available at https://au.int/sites/default/files/documents/33126-doc-framework_document_book.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

African Union., ‘Is Energy Transition the Answer to Africa’s Climate Change and Socio-Economic Development? What will it Take for Africa to Reach Net-Zero Emissions?’ Available at https://au.int/en/pressreleases/20211109/energy-transition-answer-africas-climate-change-and-socioeconomic (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Carbon Brief., ‘Can ‘Nature-Based Solutions’ Help Address Climate Change?’ Available at https://www.carbonbrief.org/qa-can-nature-based-solutions-help-address-climate-change/ (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Climate Change (Amendment) Act, 2023, Government Printer, Nairobi.

Climate Change Act., No. 11 of 2016, Government Printer, Nairobi.

Climate Change., ‘Meaning, Definition, Causes, Examples and Consequences.’ Available at https://youmatter.world/en/definition/climate-change-meaning-definition-causes-and-consequences/ (Accessed on 26/02/2024)

DGB Group., ‘Net Zero: Benefits, Challenges, Strategies, and the Power of Nature-Based Solutions’ Available at https://www.green.earth/blog/net-zero-benefits-challenges-strategies-and-the-power-ofnature-based-solutions (Accessed on 26/01/2024).

East African Community., ‘East African Community Climate Change Policy.’ Available at https://www.eac.int/environment/climate-change/eac-climate-change-policy-framework (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Energy for Growth Hub., ‘Who Decides Africa’s Net Zero Pathways?’ Available at https://energyforgrowth.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/10/Who-Decides-Africas-Net-ZeroPathways_-2.pdf (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

Environmental and Energy Study Institute., ‘Fossil Fuels.’ Available at https://www.eesi.org/topics/fossil-fuels/description (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

European Commission., ‘The European Green Deal’ Available at https://commission.europa.eu/strategy-and-policy/priorities-2019-2024/european-green-deal_en (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change., ‘Glossary’ Available at https://www.ipcc.ch/site/assets/ uploads/sites/2/2022/06/SR15_AnnexI.pdf (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

International Energy Agency., ‘Net Zero by 2050’ Available at https://www.iea.org/reports/net-zeroby-2050 (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

International Organization for Standardization., ‘Embracing Net Zero: A Crucial Step Towards a Sustainable Future’ Available at https://www.iso.org/climate-change/embracing-net-zero#:~:text=Emission%20red uctions%3A%20Reducing%20emissions%20at,innovating%20processes%20to%20reduce%20waste. (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

International Union for Conservation of Nature, ‘Nature-Based Solutions’ available at https://www.iucn.org/our-work/nature-based-solutions (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Kyriacou. G., & Burke. J., ‘Why is Net Zero so Important in the Fight Against Climate Change?’ Available at https://www.lse.ac.uk/granthaminstitute/explainers/why-is-net-zero-so-important-in-the-fightagainst-climate-change/ (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Levin. K et al., ‘What Does “Net-Zero Emissions” Mean? 8 Common Questions, Answered’ Available at https://www.wri.org/insights/net-zero-ghg-emissions-questions-answered (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

Muigua. K., ‘Achieving Sustainable Development, Peace and Environmental Security.’ Glenwood Publishers Limited, 2021.

Muigua. K., ‘Actualizing Africa’s Green Dream.’ Available at http://kmco.co.ke/wpcontent/uploads/ 2023/07/Actualizing-Africas-Green-Dream.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Muigua. K., ‘Enhancing Low Carbon Development for Sustainability’ Available at https://kmco.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Enhancing-Low-Carbon-Development-forSustainability-.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Muigua. K., ‘Transitioning from Fossil Fuels to Clean Energy’ Available at https://kmco.co.ke/wpcontent/uploads/2023/12/Transitioning-from-Fossil-Fuels-to-Clean-Energy.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Murray. S., ‘Can Carbon Markets Accelerate Progress Towards Net Zero?’ Available at https://www.ft.com/content/5349cb46-4c33-4a2e-840a-b8fc94de7254 (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Nordloh. D., ‘The Challenges to Achieving Net Zero Carbon Emissions’ Available at https://energybyentech.com/blog/the-challenges-to-achieving-net-zero-carbon-emissions/ (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

Nordloh. D., ‘The Challenges to Achieving Net Zero Carbon Emissions’ Op Cit 122 Ibid 123 World Economic Forum., ‘Net Zero Carbon Cities’ Available at https://www.weforum.org/nzcc/ (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

Nwokolo. S et al., ‘Introduction: Africa’s Net Zero Transition’ Available at https://www.researchgate.net/ publication/376294551_Introduction_Africa’s_Net_Zero_Transition (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development., ‘Understanding Countries’ Net-Zero Emissions Targets’ Available at https://www.oecd-ilibrary.org/docserver/8d25a20cen.pdf?expires =1708951187 &id=id&accname=guest&checksum=440237330830E3DE611AA54BC67A4665 (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

PwC Kenya., ‘Private Sector Development – Catalyst of a Sustainable Africa?’ Available at https://www.pwc.com/ke/en/blog/private-sectordevelopment.html#:~:text=As%20the%20world%20 looks%20to,sustainable%20practices%20within%20de veloping%20economies. (Accessed on 27/02/ 2024).

Renne. D., ‘Progress, Opportunities and Challenges of Achieving Net-Zero Emissions and 100% Renewables’ Solar Compass, Volume 1, 2022.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change., ‘Special Report: Global Warming of 1.5 ºC’ Available at https://www.ipcc.ch/sr15/ (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations Climate Change., ‘Get Net Zero Right’ Available at https://racetozero.unfccc.int/ wpcontent/uploads/2021/07/Get-Net-Zero-right-2.pdf (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

United Nations Climate Change., ‘Race To Zero Campaign’ available at https://unfccc.int/climateaction/race-to-zero-campaign (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs., ‘Forum on Climate Change and Science and Technology Innovation.’ Available at https://www.un.org/en/desa/forum-climate-change-andscienceand technology-innovation (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

United Nations Development Programme., ‘Africa Holds the Key to Many Global Climate Solutions’ Available at https://climatepromise.undp.org/news-and-stories/africa-holds-key-many-global-climatesol utions (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific., ‘Low-Carbon Development Plan.’ Available at https://www.unescap.org/sites/default/files/45.%20FS-Low-CarbonDevelopmentPlan.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations Framework Convention for Climate Change., United Nations, 1992., Available at https://unfccc.int/files/essential_background/background_publications_htmlpdf/application/pdf/con veng.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change., ‘Kyoto Protocol to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.’ Available at https://unfccc.int/resource/docs/convkp/ kpeng.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change., ‘Paris Agreement.’ Available at https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/english_paris_agreement.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations General Assembly., ‘Transforming Our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.’ 21 October 2015, A/RES/70/1., Available at https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/ content/documents/21252030%20Agenda%20for%20Sustainable%20Development%20web.pdf (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

United Nations., ‘Causes and Effects of Climate Change.’ Available at https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/science/causes-effects-climate-change (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations., ‘Goal 13: Take Urgent Action to Combat Climate Change and its Impacts.’ Available at https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/climate-change/ (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

United Nations., ‘Low Carbon Development.’ Available at https://sustainabledevelopment.un.org/index.php?menu=1448#:~:text=The%20concept%20of%20low% 20carbon,low%2Dcarbon%20growth%20plans (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations., ‘Renewable Energy – Powering a Safer Future’ Available at https://www.un.org/en/climatechange/raising-ambition/renewable-energy (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United Nations., ‘Secretary-General Calls on States to Tackle Climate Change ‘Time Bomb’ through New Solidarity Pact, Acceleration Agenda, at Launch of Intergovernmental Panel Report’ Available at https://press.un.org/en/2023/sgsm21730.doc.htm (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

United Nations., ‘United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change: Report of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Paris Agreement on its third session, held in Glasgow from 31 October to 13 November 2021’ FCCC/PA/CMA/2021/10/Add.1, Available at https://unfccc.int/sites/default/files/resource/cma2021_10_add1_adv.pdf (Accessed on 27/02/2024).

United States Environmental Protection Agency ‘Sources of Greenhouse Gas Emissions’ Available at https://www.epa.gov/ghgemissions/sources-greenhouse-gas-emissions (Accessed on 26/02/2024).

Yildiz. I., ‘Fossil Fuels.’ Comprehensive Energy Systems., (2018), Volume 1., pp 521-567.

Yuan. H, Zhou. P, & Zhou. D., ‘What is Low-Carbon Development? A Conceptual Analysis.’ Energy Procedia, 5 (2011) 1706–1712.

News & Analysis

What is Carbon Markets?

Published

on

Written by Faith Nyambura Kabora, Advocate.

Carbon markets are a mechanism designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions which are essentially gases that trap heat in the atmosphere and contribute to the negative impacts of climate change such as prolonged drought and rising of sea levels.

Carbon markets operate on the principle of putting a price on carbon emissions to create commercial/economic incentives for public and private entities to reduce their carbon footprint and invest in cleaner, sustainable practices.

Ideally, by putting a price on carbon, the carbon markets encourage sustainable environmental practices and help counties meet their emission reduction targets under international treaties, like the Paris Agreement, which Kenya is a signatory to. For a broader understanding, here is how a carbon market works;

  1. A Government establishes a limit on the total amount of greenhouse gas emission/pollution is allowed within its geographical limits;
  2. A grant, say permissions are created and distributed to eligible participants. This allowance represents the right to emit a certain amount of greenhouse gas;
  3. The participants can then buy and sell the allowances. Ideally, those who reduce their emissions more efficiently sell their surplus allowance to those who find it more challenging to reduce the emissions. If a company pollutes a lot, they need to buy more permissions, and if they do not pollute as much, they can sell their extra permissions.
  4. Entities are required to hold enough allowances to cover their actual emissions. If they exceed allocated allowances, they face penalties or, as expounded above, they buy additional allowances. This is the part where compliance becomes mandatory for all the key players.
  5. The price of the allowances fluctuates based on supply and demands and reflects the cost of emitting greenhouse gases. It is essentially like paying for pollution.

A carbon market plays a pivotal role in advancing climate action and promoting sustainable practices by incentivizing companies to reconsider their pollution practices, which can result in financial consequences as pollution becomes a costly endeavor. In Kenya, the introduction of a Carbon Market is imperative as the world confronts the dire consequences of climate change. Furthermore, it offers a commercial opportunity for investors considering the growing demand for environmentally friendly and carbon neutral products and services.

As mentioned above, the Paris Agreement is one of the most important international treaties dedicated strengthen global response to the negative impact of climate change. Ultimately, the Agreement’s goal is to motivate countries to limit global emissions and more importantly, to hold them accountable for their actions around reducing their carbon footprints.

Kenya as a signatory to the Paris Agreement has made significant contributions towards fulfilling the obligations under the Paris Agreement of limiting global temperature. The Climate Change (Amendment) Act 2023, nudges Kenya towards the realization of Article 6 of the Paris Agreement by introducing provisions and regulation of and participation in carbon markets.

As one of the top law firms in Nairobi, MMA Advocates is renowned for its proactive strategy and innovative legal lawyer advice. Our firm is committed to delivering strategic assistance that not only tackles current difficulties but also equips clients for future legal trends and advancements. As top lawyers in Nairobi Kenya, we take great satisfaction in our ability to combine in-depth legal knowledge with creative problem-solving. We keep a close eye on business trends and legal advancements to deliver timely guidance that enables our clients to make wise choices.

Our main goal as MMA Advocates is to establish long-lasting partnerships based on integrity, decency, and reliability. Since every client’s circumstance is unique, our best advocates in Kenya offer timely service and individualized attention at every stage of our collaboration. We make sure our clients are informed and empowered throughout their legal journey because we value openness and transparency in communication. In every case we take on, we are deeply committed to obtaining positive results and client satisfaction. This is just one aspect of our unwavering commitment to quality.

Whether you are a startup negotiating regulatory obstacles, an established corporation expanding, or a private citizen seeking legal assistance on personal problems, our Best Corporate Lawyers in Kenya are dedicated to becoming your legal partner. Our expertise include Commercial Litigation, Real Estate & Development, Fintech, Public Procurement (Public Private Partnerships), Project Finance, Public Law Litigation, Legal Audits & Compliance Advisory and Crisis Management.

We hope to arm you with the legal know-how and strategies needed to achieve your objectives. Our team enjoys taking on challenging legal matters with creativity and strategic understanding, protecting your rights and effectively achieving your goals. With a thorough comprehension of both regional laws and global norms, we are prepared to confidently and competently lead you through the complexities of corporate law.

In the intensely competitive legal arena, our tailored legal and strategic solutions distinguish us. We value depth over breadth, guaranteeing our clients our full dedication and unparalleled efficiency. Where many spread themselves wide, we narrow our focus to a select few of the most challenging cases. We tread the path less traveled.

To find out more about how MMA Advocates in Nairobi Kenya can help you with your legal issues, get in touch with us. With our team of committed professionals and our standing as one of the top law firms in Nairobi, we are well-positioned to offer outcomes that surpass expectations and guarantee your success in a legal environment that is always changing.

Continue Reading

News & Analysis

Review: Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Journal, Volume 12(3), 2024

Published

on

The Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) Journal, Volume. 12, No.3, 2024 covers pertinent and emerging issues across all ADR mechanisms. This volume exposes our readers to a variety of salient topics and concerns in ADR including Building Peace in Africa, Public Policy as a Ground of Setting-Aside an Arbitral Award, Ethics, Integrity and Best Practice in Mediation, Accessing Justice in Kenya, Sports Arbitration, ESG Arbitration, Arbitration of Investor-State Dispute in Kenya, Article 159(2) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and issuance of interim measures by Arbitral Tribunals. The ADR Journal is a publication of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, Kenya Branch. It provides a platform for scholarly debate and in-depth investigations into both theoretical and practical questions in Alternative Dispute Resolution.

The journal is edited by Professor of Law at the University of Nairobi, Faculty of Law Hon Prof. Kariuki Muigua, a distinguished law scholar, an accomplished mediator and arbitrator with a Ph.D. in law from the University of Nairobi and widespread training and experience in both international and national commercial arbitration and mediation. Prof. Muigua is a Fellow of Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (CIArb)- Kenya chapter and also a Chartered Arbitrator. He is a member of the Permanent Court of Arbitration, The Hague. He also serves as a member of the National Environment Tribunal. He has served as the Chartered Institute of Arbitrator’s (CIArb- UK) Regional Trustee for Africa from 2019 -2022.

In the paper “Building Peace in Africa through Alternative Dispute Resolution”  Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua critically discusses the role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanisms in peace building in Africa. The paper argues that ADR mechanisms can play a fundamental role in building peace in Africa. The paper further posits that ADR mechanisms are able to enhance sustainable peace in Africa due to their focus on reconciliation and restorative justice. It proposes solutions towards building peace in Africa through ADR.

In “the Emergence of the International Commercial Court: A Threat to Arbitration of Investor-State Dispute in Kenya” Marion Injendi Wasike and Dr. Kenneth W. Mutuma argue that the proliferation of international commercial courts, including their introduction in Kenya, necessitates a thorough analysis of their implications on arbitration’s role in investor-state disputes. By juxtaposing these emerging judicial entities against traditional arbitration paradigms, the discussion aims to unravel the complexities and potential shifts in dispute resolution preferences, highlighting the balance between innovation in legal adjudication and the sustenance of arbitration’s revered position in the international legal order.

Kamau Karori SC, MBS in “Striking a Balance: A Delicate Dance Between Sanctity and Scrutiny” notes that the continuing debate —between upholding the inviolability of arbitral awards and judicial intervention in cases of egregious injustice points to the need for delicate balancing between non-interference and the need to correct unmistakably unjust awards. The urgency of this discourse is informed by the need to prevent consumers or potential consumers of arbitration services opting to exclude arbitration clauses due to perceived deficiencies. The article seeks to navigate the genesis of the debate, delicately dissect the different perspectives, and draw comparisons with global practices.

The article “Reforming Kenya’s Law on Probation and Aftercare Services to Promote Alternative Dispute Resolution” by Michael Sang engages in a comprehensive exploration of Kenya’s Probation of Offenders Act within the context of the growing role of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) principles in the nation’s criminal justice system. Drawing inspiration from international legal instruments such as “The Beijing Rules,” “Bangkok Rules,” and “Tokyo Rules,” the study evaluates the Act’s provisions, strengths, and limitations. It concludes with a call for thoughtful reforms that align Kenya’s criminal justice system with international standards, emphasizing a balanced and compassionate approach to justice.

The “Upholding Ethics, Integrity and Best Practice in Mediation” by Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua, OGW critically discusses the need for standardization of mediation practice in Kenya by adopting best practices. It examines some of the challenges facing mediation practice in Kenya. It is also explores measures adopted towards fostering best practices in mediation at both the global and national level. The paper further suggests recommendations aimed at upholding ethics, integrity and best practice in mediation. In “Exploring the Role of Mediation in Promoting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and Fostering Economic Growth in Kenya” Atundo Wambare offers an in-depth analysis of the use of mediation in promoting the growth of small and medium enterprises (SME’s). He makes recommendations on how best mediation can be harnessed as a tool for economic growth in Kenya.

James Njuguna and Nyamboga George Nyanaro in “Compulsory Resolution or Autonomy Erosion? The Debate on Mandatory Sports Arbitration delve into the contentious issue of mandatory sports arbitration, questioning its role as a potential future pathway for dispute resolution. Their research examines the implications of compulsory arbitration on athletes’ autonomy, juxtaposing it with the benefits of expedited dispute resolution.

Paul Ngotho in “Constitution of Kenya 2010 Article 159.2.(c): Ancestry, Anatomy, Efficacy & Legacy” traces the rather odd origin and everlasting effect of the often-cited Article 159.2.(c) of the Constitution of Kenya 2010. It acknowledges the central role played by two members of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators Kenya Branch, quietly and privately, away from the mainstream constitution making process. One of them chairman of the Branch, the other the Minister of Justice, National Cohesion and Constitutional Affairs.

David Onsare in “Navigating The ESG Maze: Emerging Trends in Arbitration and Corporate Accountability” embarks on a timely exploration of the dynamic interplay between Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) factors and arbitration, a field gaining critical importance in the realm of corporate accountability. By offering a comprehensive view of the complexities and practical implications of ESG in arbitration, the article serves as a crucial guide for legal professionals navigating the evolving landscape of corporate responsibility and arbitration. In “Public Policy as a Ground of Setting-Aside an Arbitral Award: Musings on the Centurion Engineers Civil Appeal Judgment”

Ibrahim Kitoo argues a case for upholding of public policy as a ground for the nonrecognition, non-enforcement and setting aside of an arbitral award in cases where to recognise and enforce such awards proves to be a clear violation of the law and against the public good. Juvenalis Ngowi in “Arbitral Tribunals: Do they have the power to issue interim measures during the proceedings?” discusses the powers of the Arbitral Tribunal to grant such orders and examines some procedural rules which empower arbitrators to issue such orders, the scope of those powers, and the factors to be considered when granting interim measures in the arbitral proceedings.

In “Examining the Efficacy of Mediation as A Tool for Accessing Justice in Kenya: Opportunities, Challenges, and Future Perspectives” Murithi Antony undertakes a thorough examination of mediation as a form of ADR in the Kenyan context. He identifies opportunities arising from the integration of mediation into the country’s legal system and explores barriers impeding its widespread adoption. The article concludes with a resounding call to action for all stakeholders to champion the use of mediation collaboratively and proactively, given its proven efficacy in dispute resolution.

Kariuki Muigua & Company Advocates is a Top-Tier Kenyan law firm situated at the heart of Nairobi city in Kenya. We are a broad-based practice with a reputation for offering a full range of quality services to our domestic and international clients.

At KM&CO, we take pride in offering personalized attention to our diverse clientele. Our practice aspires to offer efficient and cost-effective legal solutions that meet our esteemed clients’ needs in a timely and competent manner.

KM&CO was founded in 1993 by the current senior Advocate, Dr. Kariuki Muigua. It is based in the Central Business District of Nairobi at the Pioneer Assurance House located opposite 7th August Bomb Blast Memorial Park enjoying the convenience of close proximity to major financial, commercial and governmental institutions.

We are open for consultations with our clients worldwide; we have lawyers on standby for 24 hours to cover diverse time zones that impact on our global clients.

Continue Reading

News & Analysis

Way Forward in Applying Collaborative Approaches Towards Conflict Management

Published

on

By Hon. Prof. Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, C.Arb, FCIArb is a Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution at the University of Nairobi, Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration, Leading Environmental Law Scholar, Respected Sustainable Development Policy Advisor, Top Natural Resources Lawyer, Highly-Regarded Dispute Resolution Expert and Awardee of the Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) of Kenya by H.E. the President of Republic of Kenya. He is the Academic Champion of ADR 2024, the African ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, the African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, ADR Practitioner of the Year in Kenya 2021, CIArb (Kenya) Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 and ADR Publisher of the Year 2021 and Author of the Kenya’s First ESG Book: Embracing Environmental Social and Governance (ESG) tenets for Sustainable Development” (Glenwood, Nairobi, July 2023) and Kenya’s First Two Climate Change Law Book: Combating Climate Change for Sustainability (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023), Achieving Climate Justice for Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, October 2023), Promoting Rule of Law for Sustainable Development (Glenwood, Nairobi, January 2024) and Actualizing the Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment (Glenwood, Nairobi, March 2024)*

It is necessary to embrace and utilize collaborative approaches in managing conflicts. These techniques include mediation, negotiation, and facilitation. These mechanisms are effective in managing conflicts since they encourage parties to embrace and address disagreements through empathy and listening towards mutually beneficial solutions. Collaborative approaches also have the potential to preserve relationships, build trust, and promote long term positive change. They also ensure a win-win solution is found so that everyone is satisfied which creates the condition for peace and sustainability. These approaches are therefore ideal in managing conflicts. It is therefore important to embrace collaborative approaches in order to ensure effective management of conflicts.

In addition, it is necessary for third parties including mediators and facilitators to develop their skills and techniques in order to enhance the effectiveness of collaborative approaches towards conflict management. For example, it has correctly been observed that mediators and facilitators should listen actively and empathetically in order to assist parties to collaborate towards managing their dispute. Therefore, when a dispute arises, the first step should involve listening to all parties involved with an open mind and without judgment. This should entail active listening, which means paying attention to both verbal and nonverbal cues and acknowledging the emotions and perceptions involved.

It has been observed that by listening empathetically, a third party such as a mediator of facilitator can understand each person’s perspective and start to build a foundation for resolving the conflict through collaboration. In addition, while collaborating towards conflict management, it is necessary to encourage and help parties to focus on interests and not positions. It has been pointed out that focusing positions can result in a standstill which can delay or even defeat the conflict management process. However, by identifying and addressing the underlying interests parties can find common ground and collaborate towards coming up with creative solutions towards their conflict.

Mediators and facilitators should also assist parties to look for areas of agreement or shared goals. Identifying a common ground can build momentum and create a positive environment for resolving the conflict. Further, in order to ensure the effectiveness of collaborative approaches in conflict management, it is necessary to build strong collaboration. It has been asserted that strong collaboration can be achieved by establishing a shared purpose, cultivating trust among parties, encouraging active participation by all parties, and promoting effective communication.

Strong collaboration enables parties to develop trust between and among themselves and strengthen communication channels between the various parties. It also helps to generate inclusive solutions that arise from wider stakeholders’ views. Therefore while applying collaborative approaches, it is necessary for parties to foster strong collaboration by identifying common goals, building trust, ensuring that all stakeholders are involved, and communicating effectively in order to come up with win-win outcomes.

Finally, while embracing collaborative approaches in conflict management, it is necessary for parties to consider seeking help from third parties if need arises. For example, negotiation is always the first point of call whenever a conflict arises whereby parties attempt to manage their conflict without the involvement of third parties. It has been described as the most effective collaborative approach towards conflict management since it starts with an understanding by both parties that they must search for solutions that satisfy everyone.

It enables parties to a dispute to come together to openly discuss the issue causing tension, actively listen to each other, and come up with mutually satisfactory solutions. However, it has been correctly observed that negotiation may fail especially if the conflict is particularly complex or involves multiple parties due to challenges in collaborating. In such circumstances, where negotiation fails, parties should consider resorting to other collaborative approaches such as mediation and facilitation where they attempt to manage the conflict with the help of a third party. A mediator or facilitator can assist parties to collaborate and continue with the negotiations and ultimately break the deadlock.

*This is an extract from Kenya’s First Clean and Healthy Environment Book: Actualizing the Right to a Clean and Healthy Environment (Glenwood, Nairobi, January 2024) by Hon. Prof.  Kariuki Muigua, OGW, PhD, Professor of Environmental Law and Dispute Resolution, Senior Advocate of Kenya, Chartered Arbitrator, Kenya’s ADR Practitioner of the Year 2021 (Nairobi Legal Awards), ADR Lifetime Achievement Award 2021 (CIArb Kenya), African Arbitrator of the Year 2022, Africa ADR Practitioner of the Year 2022, Member of National Environment Tribunal (NET) Emeritus (2017 to 2023) and Member of Permanent Court of Arbitration nominated by Republic of Kenya and Academic Champion of ADR 2024. Prof. Kariuki Muigua is a foremost Environmental Law and Natural Resources Lawyer and Scholar, Sustainable Development Advocate and Conflict Management Expert in Kenya. Prof. Kariuki Muigua teaches Environmental Law and Dispute resolution at the University of Nairobi School of Law, The Center for Advanced Studies in Environmental Law and Policy (CASELAP) and Wangari Maathai Institute for Peace and Environmental Studies. He has published numerous books and articles on Environmental Law, Environmental Justice Conflict Management, Alternative Dispute Resolution and Sustainable Development. Prof. Muigua is also a Chartered Arbitrator, an Accredited Mediator, the Managing Partner of Kariuki Muigua & Co. Advocates and Africa Trustee Emeritus of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators 2019-2022. Prof. Muigua is a 2023 recipient of President of the Republic of Kenya Order of Grand Warrior (OGW) Award for his service to the Nation as a Distinguished Expert, Academic and Scholar in Dispute Resolution and recognized among the top 5 leading lawyers and dispute resolution experts in Band 1 in Kenya by the Chambers Global Guide 2024 and was listed in the Inaugural THE LAWYER AFRICA Litigation Hall of Fame 2023 as one of the Top 50 Most Distinguished Litigation Lawyers in Kenya and the Top Arbitrator in Kenya in 2023.

References

Bercovitch. J., ‘Conflict and Conflict Management in Organizations: A Framework for Analysis.’ Available at https://ocd.lcwu.edu.pk/cfiles/International%20Relations/EC/IR403/Conflict.ConflictManagementinOrga nizations.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Bercovitch. J., ‘Mediation Success or Failure: A Search for the Elusive Criteria.’ Cardozo Journal of Conflict Resolution, Vol. 7, p 289.

Bloomfield. D., ‘Towards Complementarity in Conflict Management: Resolution and Settlement in Northern Ireland,’ Journal of Peace Research., Volume 32, Issue 2.

Burrell. B., ‘The Five Conflict Styles’ Available at https://web.mit.edu/collaboration/mainsite/ modules/module1/1.11.5.html (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Demmers. J., ‘Theories of Violent Conflict: An Introduction’ (Routledge, New York, 2012).

Diana. M., ‘From Conflict to Collaboration’ Available at https://www.pmi.org/learning/library/conflict-collaboration-beyond-projectsuccess-1899 (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Food and Agriculture Organization., ‘Collaborative Conflict Management for Enhanced National Forest Programmes (NFPs)’ Available at https://www.fao.org/3/i2604e/i2604e00.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

International Organization for Peace Building., ‘Natural Resources and Conflict: A Path to Mediation.’ Available at https://www.interpeace.org/2015/11/naturalresources-and-conflict-a-path-to-mediation/ (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Isenhart. M.W., & Spangle. M., ‘Summary of “Collaborative Approaches to Resolving Conflict” ‘ Available at https://www.beyondintractability.org/bksum/isenhart-collaborative (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Kaushal. R., & Kwantes. C., ‘The Role of Culture and Personality in Choice of Conflict Management Strategy.’ International Journal of Intercultural Relations 30 (2006) 579– 603.

Leeds. C.A., ‘Managing Conflicts across Cultures: Challenges to Practitioners.’ International Journal of Peace Studies, Volume 2, No. 2, 1997.

May. E., ‘Collaborating Conflict Style Explained In 4 Minutes’ Available at https://www.niagara institute.com/blog/collaborating-conflict-style/ (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Miroslavov. M., ‘Mastering the Collaborating Conflict Style In 2024’ Available at https://www.officernd.com/blog/collaborating-conflictstyle/#:~:text=It’s%20one%20of%20the%20strat egies,their%20underlying%20needs %20and%20interests. (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Muigua. K & Kariuki. F., ‘ADR, Access to Justice and Development in Kenya.’ Available at http://kmco.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2018/08/ADR-access-tojustice-and-development-inKenyaRevised-version-of-20.10.14.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Muigua. K., ‘Alternative Dispute Resolution and Access to Justice in Kenya.’ Glenwood Publishers Limited, 2015.

Muigua. K., ‘Reframing Conflict Management in the East African Community: Moving from Alternative to ‘Appropriate’ Dispute Resolution.’ Available at https://kmco.co.ke/wpcontent/uploads/2023/06/ Reframing-ConflictManagement-in-the-East-African-CommunityMoving-from-Alternative-toAppropriate-Dispute-Resolution (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Muigua. K., ‘Resolving Conflicts through Mediation in Kenya.’ Glenwood Publishers Limited, 2nd Edition., 2017.

Quain. S., ‘The Advantages & Disadvantages of Collaborating Conflict Management’ Available at https://smallbusiness.chron.com/advantagesdisadvantages-collaborating-conflict-management-36052.html (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Samuel. A., ‘Is the Collaborative Style of Conflict Management the Best Approach?’ Available at https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/collaborative-style-conflictmanagement-best-approach-samuel-ansah (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

United Nations., ‘Land and Conflict’ Available at https://www.un.org/en/landnatural-resources-conflict/pdfs/GN_ExeS_Land%20and%20Conflict.pdf (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Weiss. J., & Hughes. J., ‘Want Collaboration?: Accept—and Actively Manage— Conflict’ Available at https://hbr.org/2005/03/want-collaboration-accept-andactively-manage-conflict (Accessed on 01/03/2024).

Kariuki Muigua & Company Advocates is a Top-Tier Kenyan law firm situated at the heart of Nairobi city in Kenya. We are a broad-based practice with a reputation for offering a full range of quality services to our domestic and international clients.

At KM&CO, we take pride in offering personalized attention to our diverse clientele. Our practice aspires to offer efficient and cost-effective legal solutions that meet our esteemed clients’ needs in a timely and competent manner.

KM&CO was founded in 1993 by the current senior Advocate, Dr. Kariuki Muigua. It is based in the Central Business District of Nairobi at the Pioneer Assurance House located opposite 7th August Bomb Blast Memorial Park enjoying the convenience of close proximity to major financial, commercial and governmental institutions.

We are open for consultations with our clients worldwide; we have lawyers on standby for 24 hours to cover diverse time zones that impact on our global clients.

Continue Reading

Trending