KNATCOM derives its mandate and functions from;

The UNESCO Constitution;

The Charter of the National Commissions for UNESCO;

and The Kenya National Commission for UNESCO Act of 2013. Generally, the functions of the National Commission are to; ensure permanent presence of UNESCO in Kenya;

1. disseminate information on UNESCO;
2. coordinate ratification of UNESCO related international conventions and protocols;
3. coordinate, Kenyan delegations to all UNESCO international foras; participate in the planning and execution of UNESCO activities;
4. collaborate with other National Commissions in UNESCO globally; participate in the search for candidates for UNESCO international prizes and awards;
5. participate in the search for candidates for UNESCO jobs, assist in the placement of UNESCO fellowship holders; foster close liaison between institutions concerned with education, the sciences, culture and communication &information;
6. coordinate capacity building in education, sciences, culture and communication&information;
7. support mobilization of resources for implementation of UNESCO programmes and activities and to the evaluation thereof;
8. and provide expert advisory service to the government in education, sciences, culture, and communication and information.