We need to Unite to push Africa’s Agenda: Clarion Call by 78th President of the UN General Assembly
‘Africa is made up of 54 countries. Africa has a voice and Africans need to unite to amplify their voice especially in Inter-governmental meetings and at the United Nations. Nairobi is home to three UN headquarters and especially the Environments Office and Kenya as a whole is strategically placed to influence conversations and issues on Environmental conservation. The Development of Africa must be an agenda for the UN. It is imperative to harness the collaborative powers of inventions and innovations. In unity, we possess the strength to achieve a more peaceful and sustainable Africa.’
This mesage was amplified by the 78th President of the United Nations General Assembly, H.E. Dennis Francis while he was delivering a guest lecture on Friday, March 1, 2024 at the University of Nairobi, Chandaria Auditorium.
In his keynote address, His Excellency Dennis Francis noted that, ‘It is imperative that we address the interconnected challenges, the triple planetary crisis of climate change, bio diversity and pollution.’
‘Africa’s ecosystems are under siege due to deforestation, habitat degradation and air and water pollution. African Nations are the heaviest hit by this crisis. The issues jeopardize food security and livelihoods are severely compromised. It is high time that we recognize the connection between environmental degradation, social injustice and economic development.’
He concluded by calling out Africans, ‘Africa has the ability to formulate and implement policies, I am conscious that the process of negotiating the SDGs was led by a Kenyan Diplomat in a committee of 10. That committee demonstrated that much can be achieved through regional integration. Africa can play a meaningful role, together, let us embark on this journey for our children and our children’s children.’
While welcoming the President, the PS, Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Dr. Korir congratulated the President on the speech he delivered at the 6th United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA). He thanked him for pushing the Suatainable Development Agenda. He noted that Kenya and the Kenyan Government are strategically placed to influence conversations that can fast track the development of Africa as a whole.
Prof. Stephen Kiama, the Vice Chancellor of the University welcomed the UN President to the UoN, and expressed his gratitude and priviledge to host the UN President and conversation on the Role of Africa in strengthening multilateralism.
The Forum was hosted through a partnership with the University’s Department of Diplomacy and International Studies, the Government and the UN.
