By Winnie Kamau
Nairobi, Kenya: The United Nations Department of Global Communications (UNDGC) unveiled the selection of two distinguished leaders as Co-Chairs of the 2024 United Nations Civil Society (UNCS) Conference, scheduled to take place in Nairobi, Kenya. This conference aims to complement and support the upcoming Summit of the Future.
Ms. Carole Osero-Ageng’o, renowned for her tireless advocacy in human rights and gender equality, stood tall as the Global Initiatives Lead & Africa Regional Representative at HelpAge International. With her extensive expertise in issues ranging from aging and women’s rights to climate change and conflict management, Carole is a beacon of hope for marginalized communities across the globe.
Her counterpart, Ms. Nudhara Yusuf, bringing a fresh perspective to the table as the Executive Coordinator of the Global Governance Innovation Network (GGIN) at The Stimson Center. With a focus on governance innovation and youth empowerment, Nudhara’s passion for building multi stakeholder communities of practice resonated deeply with the conference’s vision for the future.
As the conference approaches anticipation is mounting among civil society organizations, governments, and private sector partners alike. The spotlight is firmly fixed on Nairobi, where delegates from around the world would converge to shape the agenda for the Summit of the Future. Carole and Nudhara, with their shared commitment to collaboration and inclusivity, are poised to lead the charge.
In the weeks leading up to the conference, preparations are in full swing, from grassroots NGOs to international advocacy groups, civil society mobilized to ensure their voices would be heard. The conference promised to be a platform for dialogue, innovation, and action—a chance to forge smart coalitions and build an inclusive multilateralism fit for the challenges of the 21st century.
The conference is expected to kick off on the 9th of May to 10th of May at the halls of the United Nations Office in Nairobi. Over 5,000 Delegates are expected to pour in from every corner of the globe, united by a common purpose: to build a future where no one is left behind.
Carole and Nudhara, with their strategic vision and collaborative leadership, are expected to guide the discussions for a more inclusive and sustainable future—one where civil society plays a central role in shaping global agendas.
The conference is expected to produce tangible outcomes and a positive contribution to the deliberations ahead of the Summit of the Future. These will include policy recommendations, action plans, initiatives, collaborations, or even projects that address specific challenges or issues relevant to the Summit of the Future’s objectives.
Following the Nairobi conference, collaborative and coordinated efforts with the Executive Office of the Secretary-General are expected to create various involvement and contribution opportunities. These include a town hall discussion on strengthening civil society engagement leading up to the Summit.
Briefings will be held for United Nations Information Centers, Resident Coordinator’s offices, and Country Teams. Additionally, special sessions will be conducted with civil society focal points across the UN System, as recommended by the Secretary-General in his report, Our Common Agenda.
