The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has actively participated in the Second Global Meeting of National Focal Points under the Fifth Montevideo Programme, which focuses on the development and implementation of environmental law. This significant event, held in Nairobi, Kenya, also included a training session on legal preparedness for the ratification of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Treaty.

## The Fifth Montevideo Programme

The Fifth Montevideo Programme represents the UN's decade of action dedicated to the advancement and implementation of environmental rule of law. Each member state of the United Nations appoints a National Focal Point to guide the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) in developing and implementing environmental law at the national level. This initiative targets critical areas such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss, aiming to strengthen global environmental governance and legal frameworks.

## Sierra Leone's Representation

Gibrilla Kamara, the Manager of Legal Affairs, Compliance, and Enforcement (LACE) at Sierra Leone's Environmental Protection Agency, serves as the National Focal Point for his country. Kamara was selected to present on the topic of "Air Quality Good Governance: Facilitating Access to Procedural Rights and Access to Justice for Clean Air" during a side event organized by UNEP's Law Division. His participation underscored Sierra Leone's commitment to improving air quality and ensuring environmental justice.

## Regional Leadership and Global Training

During the African Regional Group's final consultation, Gibrilla Kamara was unanimously elected to coordinate the Network of National Focal Points of Africa. This role involves overseeing the effective implementation of environmental law across the African region. Kamara also attended a global training session on the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, focusing on the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. This training, held on June 6, 2024, emphasized the importance of international cooperation in protecting marine ecosystems.

The Nairobi summit highlighted the crucial role of national focal points in driving global efforts to safeguard biodiversity. By engaging in this global initiative, the EPA and its representatives demonstrate a steadfast commitment to environmental protection and legal development on both national and international stages.