First United Nations Civil Society Forum in Africa Sets Stage for Inclusive Future Summit

The United Nations Civil Society Conference kicked off in Nairobi, Kenya, with a focus on “meaningful participation” and “inclusion” as the key themes. The conference brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including civil society actors, government representatives, UN officials, and young changemakers, to discuss building a fairer and more just future.

Amina Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General, highlighted the important role civil society plays in advancing the goals of the United Nations. She emphasized the need for global justice, social justice, climate justice, peace, gender equality, human rights, and the Sustainable Development Goals. Despite facing challenges and threats, civil society’s strong voice was evident at the conference.

With over 3,600 civil society representatives and 400 government officials in attendance, the conference aimed to set the stage for the upcoming Summit of the Future in September. The Summit presents a generational opportunity to update international institutions and create a more inclusive multilateralism that serves the interests of all peoples.

Keynote speakers at the conference, including SDG Young Leaders, stressed the urgency of addressing global inequality and the need for real change. The event featured workshops, discussions, and interactive dialogues on recommendations for the future, with a focus on collaboration and engagement with UN Member States.

The closing session, to be attended by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the President of Kenya, William Ruto, will mark the end of the two-day conference. The event serves as a crucial step in the journey towards the Summit of the Future, with a call for civil society to play a critical role in driving impactful global action.