As Kenya prepares to celebrate 60 years of international diplomacy, the government has unveiled ambitious plans to expand the United Nations (UN) presence in Nairobi.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei on Wednesday, November 20, shared some of the plans during the United Nations Founding Day.
The PS, in his statement, set the tone for the upcoming Diplomatic Week scheduled to begin on November 27 and run until December 7, 2024.
Speaking to members of the Diplomatic Corps, Sing’Oei reiterated Kenya’s commitment to international diplomacy and its in shaping the nation’s global identity.
“As the country introspects into its history during the Diplomatic Week scheduled to take place from November 27 to December 7, 2024, Kenya remains committed to existing partnerships and will continue to explore new avenues for collaboration.
“Kenya recognizes that effective diplomacy plays a crucial role in national development,” the PS said.
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Plans to Expand UN Footprint in Kenya
On the other hand, the PS confirmed that land has been allocated for the establishment of a United Nations Humanitarian and Logistics Hub at JKIA.
Other regions where land has been given to the UN include Dongo Kundu and the Naivasha Special Economic Zone.
The project, meant to cement Nairobi as a preferred location for UN operations, will be executed in collaboration with several government agencies.
At the moment, the United Nations Office in Nairobi (UNON) hosts approximately 20,000 staff and their families.
However, the numbers are expected to rise exponentially as several of the UN Offices seek to transfer their offices and staff to Nairobi within 2025.
Hawa Bagura, the Director General of UNON, commended the Kenyan government for its commitment to maintaining Nairobi’s status as a premier duty station.
Further, she revealed that several UN offices are planning to relocate more personnel to Nairobi in the coming year, citing Kenya’s strategic location and supportive infrastructure.
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Exhibitions, Open Days, and Art Galleries for Kenya @ 60
Kenya @ 60 celebrations will be graced by President William Ruto as the Chief Guest and will bring together stakeholders from various sectors.
Further, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, the private sector, civil society, and the public will be expected to be in attendance.
The celebrations will see amongst others, the launch of the revised Foreign Policy- which has been undergoing public participation over the past five months.
Additionally, there will be exhibitions by various governments through their embassies in Nairobi as well as the Diaspora Engagement forum where all matters of diaspora will be discussed.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will also unveil an Art Gallery at the Uhuru Gardens Monument and Museum showcasing rare and unseen photos dating to the pre-independence period.
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