Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the United Nations with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki pledging full government support for a major expansion in Nairobi.
Speaking on Wednesday after hosting the President of the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, Ms Annalena Baerbock, at the Harambee Annex in Nairobi, Prof. Kindiki said Kenya was ready to accommodate additional UN agencies and had committed billions of shillings towards the ongoing expansion programme.
The Deputy President said the project underscores Kenya’s position as a strategic diplomatic and development hub in Africa and reflects the country’s longstanding partnership with the United Nations.
“Kenya is looking forward to hosting more United Nations agencies and remains fully committed to supporting the expansion project in Nairobi,” said Kindiki.
According to him, the expansion programme is expected to significantly boost the UN’s footprint in Nairobi which already hosts the headquarters of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat), making it the only UN headquarters location in the Global South.
Upon completion of the project, Kindiki added Nairobi will also host three additional agencies including the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and UN Women.
Prof. Kindiki said the government’s investment in the project demonstrates confidence in Kenya’s ability to provide a stable and conducive environment for international organisations while enhancing the country’s global standing.
He noted that the expansion will strengthen Nairobi’s role as a centre for multilateral diplomacy, sustainable development, humanitarian action and international cooperation.
During the meeting, Ms Baerbock lauded Kenya for its unwavering support for the United Nations and its contribution to global development and peace initiatives.
She said Kenya’s commitment had been recognised through the decision to expand the UN complex in Nairobi, describing the country as a key partner in advancing the organisation’s objectives across Africa and beyond.
“The role of Kenya and Africa is critical for the future of the United Nations,” said Ms Baerbock.
She added that Nairobi’s growing importance within the UN system reflects the increasing influence of African countries in addressing global challenges, including climate change, sustainable development, peacebuilding and humanitarian response.
The discussions also touched on regional and global peace efforts, with Prof. Kindiki affirming that the country will continue supporting international peace and security missions.
The Deputy President highlighted Kenya’s leadership role in the Multinational Security Support Mission in Haiti, saying the country remains dedicated to promoting stability in conflict-affected regions.
He called on members of the international community to provide greater support for peacekeeping and peace enforcement initiatives aimed at restoring order and protecting vulnerable populations.
“Kenya will continue contributing to peace and stability in the region and across the world. The Haiti mission is a demonstration of our commitment to international solidarity and collective security,” he added.
Edited by John Majau
