Thank you Lucy Mwaniki Project Manager, ASAE | Country Representative, IRDAS
On October 30, 2024, IRDAS (Iniciativa Retorno por el Desarrollo de África Sub-Sahariana) proudly took part in the Bringing the Pact Home civil society consultation held at the UN Office in Nairobi. This key event brought together civil society stakeholders, international organizations, and Kenyan thought leaders to explore ways of adapting the global outcomes of the Summit of the Future to Kenya’s local needs.
Organized by the United Nations Information Service (UNIS) Nairobi and the UN Resident Coordinator’s Office, the event offered a unique platform for organizations like IRDAS and Alliance STEAM Afrika Education to contribute to discussions on sustainable development, equitable education, digital access, and youth empowerment. With the adoption of the Pact for the Future, including its two annexes—the Global Digital Compact and the Declaration on Future Generations—the consultation highlighted the importance of African-led solutions to the continent’s unique challenges.
Throughout the event, speakers and panelists shared insights on localizing the Summit’s goals. For IRDAS, aligning these goals with our mission to promote inclusive development, digital access, and youth empowerment across sub-Saharan Africa resonated strongly. The panel discussion, led by Florence Syevuo of the SDGs Kenya Forum, addressed pressing issues like decentralizing digital resources, financing education, and climate resilience. These are focus areas IRDAS champions through its commitment to regional collaboration and sustainable development.
The event also provided an invaluable networking opportunity for IRDAS. We connected with prominent organizations and advocates who share our vision for an Africa with equitable access to education, digital tools, and the resources necessary for development. The contacts and collaborations we initiated will strengthen IRDAS’s work and enhance our impact across various regions.
As we move forward, IRDAS remains dedicated to fostering regional resilience, especially through educational initiatives like those championed by Alliance STEAM Afrika Education. This event reaffirmed our commitment to supporting Africa’s next generation, bridging digital divides, and building sustainable communities. Through continued collaboration with local and global partners, we are excited to drive actionable change that aligns with the vision of the Pact for the Future while addressing the specific needs of our communities.
