WWF Kenya’s Leadership Shift: Jackson Kiplagat Steps Up as CEO to Champion Conservation
WWF Kenya has named Jackson Kiplagat as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2026, succeeding Mohamed Awer after his nine-year tenure.
The announcement came on December 8, 2025, during the launch of the organization’s FY25 Annual Report and a farewell event at Panda House in Nairobi’s Karen area.
Kiplagat’s Proven Track Record
Kiplagat, who officially assumes office in January 2026, takes over from Awer, who exits after nine years at the helm and more than 30 years of service to WWF and the conservation sector.
Jackson Kiplagat previously served as WWF Kenya’s Head of Conservation Programmes, where he drove strategic realignment and scaled conservation efforts across wildlife, habitats, and communities.
His leadership focused on impactful initiatives, positioning him as a natural successor to guide WWF Kenya toward its 2030 vision.
WWF Kenya Board Chairman Isaac Awuondo praised Kiplagat’s experience, calling it a “tough job” that he is equipped to handle for the next decade.
“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.
Key Achievements Highlighted in Transition
In his remarks, Kiplagat expressed gratitude to his predecessor while reassuring his commitment to steering the organization toward its 2030 vision.
The event also saw the launch of the organization’s FY25 Annual Report, which highlighted major achievements across six strategic goals: wildlife conservation, habitat protection, community impact, climate action, governance, and financial performance.
The FY25 Annual Report, unveiled at the event, showcased WWF Kenya’s successes under Awer, including a 5.5% growth in Kenya’s black rhino population to 1,059 individuals and restoration of 7,199.8 hectares of degraded landscapes.
Additional milestones featured AI-enabled anti-poaching cameras in key reserves, support for 75,113 community beneficiaries generating Ksh. 85.5 million from nature-based enterprises, and abatement of 60,808 tones of carbon.
The organization also secured Ksh. 2.27 billion in funding, hitting 87.4% of its target while advancing governance through 15 new policies.
Broader Implications for Kenyan Conservation
The event was attended by National Treasury Principal Secretary Chris Kiptoo, WWF International Director General Kirsten Schuijt, and CEOs from WWF offices in the US, UK, and Germany, alongside conservation leaders from Kenya.
This appointment signals WWF Kenya’s commitment to continuity amid pressing challenges like habitat loss and climate change, with high-profile attendees including National Treasury PS Chris Kiptoo and WWF International’s Kirsten Schuijt underscoring global support.
Kiplagat’s role will build on over 30 years of Awer’s contributions, emphasizing scalable programs in wildlife protection and sustainable community enterprises.
As Kenya balances development and environmental stewardship, Kiplagat’s vision could amplify WWF’s influence in East African conservation landscapes.