The Eastern Africa Environmental Network (EAEN) believes that sharing information, experiences and resources is vital for the achievement of peace, food security, poverty alleviation, socio-economic development and healthy environment. The regional NGO is, therefore, committed to contributing effectively to the provision of requisite for and appropriate channels for people to network as individuals and as representatives of organizations, agencies, institutions, associations and communities.

EAEN also promotes research for acquisition and dissemination of additional relevant information. EAEN serves as a cohesive force in dealing with environmental conservation issues of local, national, regional and global concern. The Network discourages duplication of efforts and encourages the use of minimal energy, time and resources for the achievement of environmental conservation objectives and goals at all levels.

EAEN is registered in Kenya as NGO under Section 10 of the Non-Governmental Organizations Coordination Act. EAEN is a non-profit, regional non-governmental organization. The decision to form EAEN was taken during an international workshop organized in mid-September, 1990 by the Eastern Africa Regional Committee of the World Conservation Union (IUCN) Commission on Education and Communication.