Kenya has secured the bid to host the 27th World Congress of the International Union of Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO) in 2029, marking the first time the prestigious event will be held in Africa since the network’s founding more than a century ago.
Kenya triumphed over Canada in a competitive bidding process, a win that signals growing international recognition of the country’s role in global forestry research and climate leadership. The congress, themed “Advancing Global Partnerships in Forestry Research and Development,” will take place in Nairobi and is expected to draw between 5,000 and 10,000 delegates from around the world.
“This is not only a win for Kenya, but for the African continent as a whole,” said Dr. Jane Njuguna, CEO of the Kenya Forestry Research Institute (KEFRI). “It shows Africa’s readiness to engage on the world stage in tackling forest conservation, land restoration, and climate resilience.”
Founded in 1892, IUFRO brings together forest scientists, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance sustainable forestry. Until now, its congress has been hosted mainly in Europe, North America, and Asia.
IUFRO President Dr. John Parrotta hailed the decision as “a historic step” that acknowledges Africa’s biodiversity and scientific contributions. Kenya represents an ideal host nation. Its strong forest traditions, global partnerships, and commitment to sustainability make it the perfect venue,” he said.
Kenya’s winning bid was a coordinated effort involving the Ministry of Environment, Climate Change and Forestry, KEFRI, the Kenya Forest Service, the Green Belt Movement, the University of Nairobi, CIFOR-ICRAF, and the African Union Commission.
Environment Cabinet Secretary Dr. Deborah Barasa described the milestone as a “vote of confidence in Kenya’s environmental leadership,” adding that it underscores the government’s determination to conserve biodiversity and promote sustainable forest management in line with global goals.
The 2029 congress will take place just a year before the conclusion of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) timeline, offering a critical platform to evaluate forests’ role in advancing climate action, poverty reduction, and green growth.
KEFRI Director Dr. Joshua Cheboiwo emphasised that the event would prioritise strong African participation. “This congress will showcase the power of global cooperation, with African researchers contributing solutions to shared environmental challenges,” he said.
Beyond the science, the congress is expected to deliver economic and diplomatic gains for Kenya, boosting tourism, research collaborations, and investment in green innovations.
For Africa, hosting the IUFRO Congress is more than a scientific milestone—it is a declaration that the continent’s ecosystems and researchers are indispensable to the world’s environmental future.
Article by Jed Mwangi
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