Deputy President Kithure Kindiki has reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to the United Nations, describing Nairobi as a critical centre for global governance and a key pillar of multilateral cooperation.
DP Kindiki held talks with Annalena Baerbock President of the 80th Session of the UN General Assembly, he said Kenya remains committed to the values and principles of the UN and supports ongoing reforms aimed at making the organisation more responsive to emerging global challenges.
The meeting comes as Kenya continues to strengthen its position as the host of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON), the only United Nations headquarters located in the Global South.
Nairobi’s Strategic Role in Global Governance
Kindiki noted that hosting UNON has elevated Nairobi’s standing as a global diplomatic hub and reinforced Kenya’s role in international affairs.
He welcomed the continued presence of the UN’s flagship agencies in Nairobi, including the United Nations Environment Programme and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme.
The Deputy President also thanked the UN for relocating the operations of several agencies from New York to Nairobi, including the United Nations Children’s Fund, United Nations Population Fund, and UN Women.
Support for UN Modernisation Efforts
During the discussions, Kenya pledged support for efforts to reform the United Nations and improve its effectiveness in addressing contemporary challenges.
Kindiki said the Government supports initiatives aimed at transforming the institution into a more agile and fit-for-purpose organisation capable of responding to the demands of the 21st century.
The talks also focused on strengthening cooperation between Kenya and the UN as geopolitical, climate, security and development challenges continue to evolve.
Kenya Backs UNON Expansion Project
A key issue highlighted during the meeting was the ongoing USD 340 million upgrade and modernisation project at the UN headquarters complex in Gigiri.
The project is expected to expand and modernise UNON facilities, enhancing Nairobi’s capacity to host international conferences, diplomatic engagements and UN operations.
Kindiki thanked the United Nations for the investment and reiterated Kenya’s commitment to making Nairobi one of the most attractive duty stations for UN personnel globally.
The meeting was attended by Zainab Bangura, Susan Nakhumicha and other senior officials from the United Nations and Kenya’s Foreign Service.
The engagement underscores Kenya’s continued efforts to position itself as a leading diplomatic and multilateral hub while deepening partnerships with international institutions.
