NAIROBI, Kenya – It’s the beginning of a new era at WWF-Kenya after the non-governmental conservation organisation appointed Jackson Kiplagat as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2026. This follows the retirement of Mohamed Awer, who served nine years as CEO and dedicated over three decades to WWF and the conservation sector.
Jackson brings over 24 years of experience in conservation, sustainable finance, governance, and policy influence. He has played pivotal roles in WWF’s global transformation strategy, sustainable investments advocacy, and Kenya’s Green Economy initiatives. As Head of Conservation Programmes at WWF-Kenya, Jackson spearheaded strategic realignment and program transformation, delivering impact at scale.
The announcement was made by Isaac Awuondo, Chairman of the WWF-Kenya Board, during the launch of WWF-Kenya’s FY25 Annual Report and a farewell ceremony for Mohamed at Panda House headquarters in Karen, Nairobi.
“As we usher in Jackson as the new Chief Executive Officer to take over from Mohamed’s very big boots, I know that you have given him all the wisdom that is required. I know you have shared all the challenges he will face with him. I know you have been open enough with him to let him understand that this is not a walk in the park; it is a tough job, and he has what it takes. You have passed the baton onto him with very open, clear minds and very good hands so that he can nurture this institution for the next 10 plus years,” said Isaac.
Introducing himself to staff and guests, Jackson expressed gratitude and commitment:
“Allow me to thank Mohamed for supporting and working hard to ensure that this organisation is where it is today. I remember a few years ago, before he announced his first retirement, which was never to be. We were having a discussion; I told him that if there is one gift you can leave us with, it is an office for all of us. And here we are; we celebrate his time, 29 years at WWF, in our own premises. I wish to commit in the presence of all of you that I and my colleagues will carry on your legacy. We will keep your friends and even grow your friendships. We will ensure that we deliver the vision that you have set out for us in the 10-year vision till 2030.”
Outgoing CEO Mohamed Awer expressed confidence in the transition: “Jackson embodies the values and leadership needed to drive WWF-Kenya’s mission forward. I am proud to hand over to a leader who understands the urgency of conservation and the power of collaboration.”
FY25 Annual Report Highlights
The FY25 Annual Report reflects WWF-Kenya’s commitment to delivering conservation impact at scale, guided by six strategic goals: Thriving Wildlife, Functioning Habitats, People Benefitting, Footprint Greened, Improved Governance, and Organisational Excellence.
WWF-Kenya’s Key Achievements in FY25:
• Wildlife: the black rhino population grew by 5.5%, reaching 1,059 rhinos, surpassing national targets. AI-enabled thermal cameras were deployed to combat poaching in Lake Nakuru National Park, Ol Pejeta Conservancy and Solio Game Reserve.
• Habitats: 7,199.8 hectares were restored in FY25, bringing the cumulative hectares restored by WWF-Kenya since 2020 to 183,980 hectares.
• Communities: 75,113 new beneficiaries reached; communities earned KSh 85.5 million this year from WWF-Kenya conservation initiatives, which include nature-based enterprises, raising cumulative income generated by beneficiaries of WWF-Kenya initiatives to KSh 525.8 million since 2020.
• Climate Action: 60,808 tonnes of carbon abated; clean energy technologies adopted by 739 households in FY25 through the provision of clean-cooking technologies such as the installation of biogas units and modern cook stoves.
• Governance: 15 policies adopted, with 18 implemented, doubling last year’s figure.
• Financial Performance: WWF-Kenya secured KSh 2.27 billion, achieving 87.4% of the annual funding target.
The event was graced by Dr Chris Kiptoo, Principal Secretary, The National Treasury (Chief Guest), alongside global WWF leaders, including Kirsten Schuijt, Director General, WWF International, and CEOs from WWF US, UK, and Germany, as well as conservation leaders from Kenya.
“This evening in Karen, Nairobi, I attended the farewell ceremony for the outgoing Chief Executive Officer of WWF Kenya, Mohamed Awer. “I celebrate not just a distinguished career but a remarkable friend and an exceptional leader in environmental conservation as Mohamed Awer retires from formal service,” said PS Kiptoo.
PS Kiptoo revealed that from the early days of the Kaptagat tree-growing program to the growth of community-led conservation and livelihoods programmes, Mohamed has exemplified quiet, steady, and results-driven leadership. His passion has always been that communities must benefit directly from protecting our forests and environment.
“Through his wisdom and community-centered approach, forests have been restored, livelihoods strengthened, and lasting policies shaped. I also wish to congratulate the incoming Chief Executive Officer, Jackson Kiplagat, as he takes over this important responsibility,” added the PS.
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