WWF Kenya Names Jackson Kiplagat as New CEO, Outgoing Mohamed Awer Bids Farewell

By : Mweru Mbugua 

World Wildlife Fund (WWF) Kenya has appointed Jackson Kiplagat as its new Chief Executive Officer, the organisation announced on December 8, 2025, during a launch of its Annual Report and a farewell event for outgoing CEO Mohamed Awer at Panda House in Karen, Nairobi

Kiplagat, who officially takes office in January 2026, succeeds Awer, who led WWF Kenya for nine years and served over 30 years in the conservation sector

Previously, Kiplagat served as WWF Kenya’s Head of Conservation Programmes, overseeing strategic realignment and transformative initiatives that expanded the organisation’s conservation impact

WWF Kenya Board Chairman Isaac Awuondo praised Kiplagat’s appointment, highlighting his leadership and experience

“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,” Awuondo said

Kiplagat thanked his predecessor and pledged to guide WWF Kenya toward achieving its 2030 vision

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The FY25 Annual Report launched at the event highlighted key achievements, including a 5.5% increase in Kenya’s black rhino population to 1,059, deployment of AI-enabled thermal cameras for anti-poaching, restoration of 7,199.8 hectares of degraded land, and support for 75,113 community beneficiaries

WWF Kenya also generated Ksh. 525.8 million from nature-based enterprises and reduced 60,808 tonnes of carbon emissions through climate action initiatives

The event was attended by National Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo, WWF International Director General Kirsten Schuijt, and CEOs from WWF offices in the US, UK, and Germany, alongside local conservation leaders.