2nd Edition of Agriculture, Forestry, and Horticulture World Conference 2026

Abstract

Regional integration is a process where neighboring states enter an agreement to enhance cooperation through common institutions and rules. This practice has gained global prominence as economic integration translates to larger markets, jobs creation and better profits. Regional integration further strengthens political stability as member states prioritize diplomatic solutions to resolve disputes and prevent conflicts. “European Union (EU) and East African Community (EAC)” are examples of successful regional integrations. The EAC constitutes eight-member states to promote cooperation, enhance peace and security protocol. It has seven objectives on environmental conservation advocating sustainable development to safeguard its natural resources. Environmental crimes encompass illegal activities targeting natural resources. A study by UNEP and INTERPOL in 2016 established environmental crimes to be fourth largest crimes worldwide after illicit drugs, counterfeits, and human trafficking estimated at USD$91-259 billion annually. Despite their substantial impacts, environmental crimes historically received insufficient attention due to their seemingly victimless nature. Kenya’s forestry sector has faced persistent environmental crimes mainly, illegal logging and illegal charcoal production and trade. While the government has continued to strengthen measures such as policy, enforcement, capacity building among others to address environmental crimes the transnational nature of these activities involving multiple EAC republic has not impacted increasing trends.  This study will thus examine interplay of EAC regional integration and environmental crimes impacting Kenya forestry.  It will analyze forms and underlying drivers of environmental crimes within EAC and further assess effectiveness of EAC regional institutions, legal frameworks and policies in addressing forestry crimes. It will examine the effectiveness of EAC enforcement mechanisms and identify policy and systemic barriers that limit EAC’s regional response as well as recommendations such as  potential for strengthened cooperation. The research will involve environmental stakeholders and local communities. It will utilize both quantitative and qualitative methods, incorporating structured questionnaires, key informant interviews and focus group discussions.
Keywords: environmental crimes, illegal logging, illegal mining, regional cooperation