Strengthening Kenya’s Presence in Global Biodiversity Decision-Making at IPBES-12
MAZIDO International was honoured to be represented at the 12th Plenary of the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES-12) through our Executive Director, Madam Rhodah Mwashigadi, who participated as part of the Kenyan Delegation.
Kenya’s presence at IPBES-12 reflected the country’s strong and growing contribution to global biodiversity and ecosystem governance. The delegation brought together the IPBES Kenya National Focal Point, Mr. Wilson Busienei, leading Kenyan scientists including Professor Oguge of the University of Nairobi—also Co-Chair of the Second IPBES Global Assessment—Dr. Wanja Nyingi of the University of Western Australia, Kenyan professionals serving within the IPBES Secretariat in Bonn, as well as experts working across other UN agencies, including UNESCO in Paris. Representatives of accredited stakeholder organisations were also part of this diverse and accomplished team.
On the margins of the plenary, MAZIDO International was privileged to engage with the High Commissioner of Kenya to the United Kingdom, His Excellency Maurice Makoloo. Despite a demanding schedule, His Excellency took time to meet members of the delegation, offering encouragement and thoughtful reflections on Kenya’s role on the global stage. He warmly commended the quality, professionalism, and impact of Kenyan experts, noting how consistently they represent the country with distinction across international platforms.
This excellence was evident within IPBES itself, where the Chair is the eminent Kenyan scientist and marine ecologist, Dr. David Obura, who also made time to engage with members of the delegation. His leadership stands as a powerful testament to Kenya’s contribution to global environmental science and policy.
A central message from His Excellency was the importance of amplifying youth voices and fostering meaningful intergenerational dialogue. He urged young professionals to participate confidently in global conversations, grounding this call in a compelling demographic reality: as the world’s population approaches 10 billion, Africa is projected to be home to approximately 2.5 billion young people. Their perspectives, energy, and leadership will be decisive in shaping future global decisions.
The overarching message was both clear and resonant—shaping the world is a collective endeavour. Every individual, institution, and community has a role and a responsibility to contribute.
MAZIDO International expresses its sincere appreciation to His Excellency Maurice Makoloo for his time, insight, and steadfast commitment to championing Kenyan professionals, youth leadership, and inclusive global engagement. We remain committed to advancing science-informed policy, community participation, and youth empowerment in global biodiversity governance.
