NAIROBI, Kenya- Kenya has secured a major diplomatic and environmental win after being selected to host the Green Climate Fund (GCF) Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office, a strategic decision made at the Fund’s 44th Board Meeting in Songdo, South Korea from March 25–28, 2026.
The announcement, made by Kenya’s State Department for Environment and Climate Change, marks a milestone for the country’s role in regional climate finance and reinforces Nairobi’s status as a leading hub for climate action and sustainable development in Africa.
Competitive Process and Regional Leadership
The bid was part of a larger push by the GCF to decentralise its operations by establishing regional hubs closer to the communities and countries it serves.
Under Decision B.41/10, the GCF Board approved the creation of regional offices to improve geographical balance, operational efficiency, and collaboration with local governments and partners.
Kenya’s successful proposal came from a competitive pool of 47 developing countries, including 17 from Africa, highlighting the strength of Nairobi’s bid and the country’s growing influence in climate finance.
“Nairobi has emerged as a regional climate leader following its successful bid … with Nairobi set to serve as the hub,” the State Department said.
What the Regional Office Will Do
The new GCF Eastern and Southern Africa Regional Office will act as a central point for expanding access to climate finance across the region, particularly for countries working to adapt to climate change and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is expected to:
- Enhance access to GCF funding for climate adaptation and mitigation programmes in Eastern and Southern Africa.
- Strengthen partnerships between governments, civil society, the private sector and regional institutions.
- Accelerate delivery of climate solutions tailored to regional needs, including resilience building and sustainable development initiatives.
Dr Pacifica Ogola, Director of Climate Change and representative for the Africa Group of Negotiators on the GCF Board, was present during the meeting, further underscoring Kenya’s influence and engagement in global climate governance.
Broader Regional Hub Roll‑Out
The 44th Board meeting also named other hosts for GCF regional hubs: Côte d’Ivoire for West, Central and North Africa; Panama City for Latin America and the Caribbean; and Jordan for Eastern Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East, reflecting the Fund’s broader strategy to bring climate finance closer to affected regions.
Hosting the GCF regional office aligns with Kenya’s broader diplomatic and climate leadership ambitions, building on initiatives such as the Africa Climate Summit and the country’s active engagement in global climate negotiations.
Securing the hub is expected to boost Nairobi’s reputation as a centre for climate, development, and international cooperation across the Global South.
