Najib Balala has been appointed Fauna and Flora International (FFI) vice-president. FFI is an international conservation charity and non-governmental organisation 

According to a press statement released on Friday, November 4, 2022, Balala who is Kenya’s former Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife, has played a significant role in boosting tourism growth and stability in Kenya and in the African regional tourism sector bringing immense experience to FFI

“As FFI’s vice-president, Balala will use his experience in wildlife conservation and tourism to support the charity with the future development of its work and partnerships globally,” FFI chief executive officer Rose Mark said.

Balala was responsible for the development, launch and implementation of the National Wildlife Strategy 2030 in 2018, a roadmap for transforming wildlife conservation in Kenya, and also launched and implemented the Wildlife Policy 2021.

Mark said: “Balala will be a wonderful global ambassador for FFI since he has been incredibly influential in the wildlife and tourism sectors in Kenya and across Africa and we are privileged to be able to benefit from this wealth of knowledge and experience”.

Balala has worked closely with private and institutional investors, conservation and regional development agencies to ensure that the economic potential of the tourism and wildlife sectors is both prudently and sustainably managed. 

Who is Balala?

Balala was born in Mombasa 1967 and trained in international urban management at the University of Toronto, Canada. He underwent the executive programme for leaders in development at the John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University.

Balala began his political career as the elected Mayor of Mombasa, Kenya (1998 to 1999). In January 2018, Balala was re-appointed to his position as the Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife. 

He has also served as a Cabinet Secretary for various ministries including tourism (2015-2017). Balala is the chairperson of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation Commission for Africa and was voted Best Tourism Minister in Africa in 2009 by Africa Investor.

About FFI  

FFI protects threatened species and ecosystems worldwide, choosing solutions that are sustainable, based on sound science and that enhance human well-being operating in more than 40 countries worldwide including Uganda.

FFI saves species from extinction and habitats from destruction while improving the livelihoods of local people.

Founded in 1903, FFI is the world’s longest-established international wildlife conservation organisation and a registered charity.