Kenya is set to host three new United Nations (UN) global offices by the end of next year, further cementing Nairobi as a key hub for UN operations. The new offices will house the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality & the Empowerment of Women (UN Women).
During a recent meeting with Philemon Yang, President of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi emphasized Kenya’s strategic role in enhancing multilateral diplomacy. Mudavadi highlighted the country’s central position in East Africa and its growing status as a key logistical and financial center, making it ideal for hosting these important UN programs.
“We are working closely with the UN to ensure that Nairobi becomes a critical hub for its operations, not just locally, but globally,” Mudavadi said at the Railways HQ office.
Kenya has long played a pivotal role in the UN’s operations, with Nairobi already hosting two major global offices: the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and UN-HABITAT. The addition of UNICEF, UNFPA, and UN Women will strengthen Kenya’s involvement in global initiatives, especially in the areas of child welfare, population issues, and gender equality.
Mudavadi also noted that the Kenyan government is working closely with various stakeholders to ensure that a supportive environment is in place for these new offices, including the necessary legal frameworks.
Yang, who visited Nairobi for the consultative meeting, praised Kenya’s efforts to facilitate UN operations. “The collaboration between Kenya and the United Nations is exceptional, and I am confident that this partnership will lead to greater achievements in the future,” Yang remarked.
These new offices underscore Kenya’s growing influence in regional and global affairs. Since joining the UN in 1963, Kenya has been a vital player in supporting the UN’s efforts in East and Central Africa. Mudavadi also noted that Kenya’s increasing importance has attracted interest from other international agencies seeking to establish a presence in Nairobi.
In support of these developments, the Director-General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) revealed plans to enhance Kenya’s stature within the UN system. A proposal will be made at the 2030 UN General Assembly to position Nairobi on par with Geneva and New York, the UN’s other key operational centers.
A $340 million investment will also go into constructing a new UN Assembly Hall in Nairobi, featuring a 9,000-seat venue and 30 conference rooms, positioning Nairobi as a potential future host for UN General Assemblies.
These investments highlight Kenya’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and reinforcing its role in global affairs. With these new offices, Nairobi is poised to further enhance its influence and contribute significantly to the UN’s mission worldwide.
