Published on: 2026-05-11
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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Secretary-General António Guterres on Monday took part in the opening of new office buildings of the UN complex in Nairobi, as well as in the ceremony for laying the foundation of the conference center. In his speech, he called these projects a symbol of the “new stage” of UN presence in Africa and a confirmation of the continent’s growing role in global politics.
At the ceremony, the President of Kenya, William Ruto, was present, as well as representatives of the diplomatic corps, international organizations, and UN staff.
In his speechAntónio Guterresemphasized that Nairobi is not a “satellite” or a “outpost,” but one of the key centers of the United Nations. He reminded that the complex in the capital of Kenya is the only UN headquarters in Africa and on the entire Global South.
“Nairobi is the place where global challenges find regional solutions, where innovations are born,” said the Secretary-General. “Here, every day shapes the future of multifaceted cooperation.”
“Green” project
The UN chief noted that the new offices have become the first UN Management building in Nairobi with zero emissions: they are fully powered by solar installations. The expansion of infrastructure, according to him, will allow the entire complex to achieve energy neutrality by 2030.
Special attention was paid by Guterres to the ecological component of the project. About three thousand local trees have already been planted on the territory of the complex, and about the same number are planned to be planted in the area of construction of the new conference center. All buildings are designed taking into account the principles of universal accessibility.
According to the Secretary General, within two years, world leaders will gather at this site to discuss key international issues. The new conference complex will include an amphitheater and facilities with a total capacity of up to nine thousand people.
The project approved by the General Assembly with a budget of 340 million dollars is the largest UN construction in Africa in the 80 years of the Organization’s existence. It is expected that this investment will turn Nairobi into one of the leading UN centers in the world.
In his speech, the head of the UN linked the development of the complex in Nairobi with broader reforms of the Organization. According to him, the UN aims to rethink working methods and strengthen cooperation with regions where new global initiatives are being formed.
“Source of innovation and locomotive of moral leadership”
Guterres noted that Africa remains a “source of innovation and a locomotive of moral leadership,” but its development is held back by high debt burdens, unequal access to financing, and an outdated system of global governance.
“Genuine solidarity with Africa means facilitating the removal of these obstacles,” emphasized the Secretary-General. He once again called for reform of the UN Security Council and international financial institutions so that African states receive greater representation and influence.
Concluding his speech, the Secretary-General thanked the government and people of Kenya for supporting the UN and expressed hope that the new spaces in Nairobi will become a place for “bold ideas, strong partnerships, and long-term solutions.”
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