Shaping an Equitable Future: Nairobi, 5th March 2026
Nairobi, 5 March 2026 - The atmosphere in the Press Room at the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON) was electric with purpose. Leaders, scientists, advocates and young women gathered both in person and virtually - with a shared conviction: the future of justice, environmental action and sustainable development depends on the leadership of women and girls.
The high-level event, jointly hosted by UNON, UNEP, UN Women, UN-Habitat, and UNIS, marked the 2026 commemoration of International Women’s Day (IWD) under the global theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls.”
But this was more than a commemoration. It was a call to action.
Bringing together global leadership and grassroots voices, the dialogue explored how women’s leadership in science, innovation and environmental governance can transform rights into lived realities - particularly at a time when climate change, digital transformation and gender justice are increasingly interconnected.
A Unified Call for Action
Opening the event, Ms. Zainab Hawa Bangura, Director-General of UNON, reminded participants that while the world has made progress, gender equality remains unfinished business.
“Achieving gender equality requires collective action collective action across the UN system, strengthening women’s leadership to build a more inclusive work.”
Echoing this call, Ms. Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP, highlighted that “When women are part of the science and STEM sectors and when we have a seat at the table, we see how women contribute --not only in the social sectors where women have always been engaged – be it health, education and caring,-- but also in the fields such as science, engineering, technology and mathematics – all essential to building a sustainable tomorrow.” Read more
Ms. Anna‑Claudia Rosbach, Executive Director, UN‑Habitat she highlighted that cities are shaping our future. With over half of humanity already living in urban areas and nearly 68% by 2050, building sustainable cities means designing spaces that are safe, inclusive, and led by women. “Today, about 56% of the world's population lives in cities, rising to nearly 68% by 2050. As our world’s leaders becomes urban, sustainable cities must be safe, inclusive, and shaped by the leadership and vision of women”.
From a regional perspective, Ms. Anna Mutavati, Regional Director for East and Southern Africa at UN Women, emphasized that real progress for women and girls means protecting rights, ensuring justice is accessible, and taking bold action for equality.“Rights must be protected, justice must be accessible, and action must be relentless, only then women and girls live with dignity, safety and equal opportunity.
Together, the speakers underscored a shared message: achieving gender equality requires coordinated action across institutions, sectors and societies.
Where Science Meets Gender Justice
The central theme of the discussion was the growing importance of women’s leadership in science and innovation, particularly as digital technologies and artificial intelligence reshape environmental governance.
During the panel discussion moderated by Ms. Sandra Macharia, Director of UN Information Service (UNIS), experts explored how inclusive science and data systems are critical for ensuring equitable environmental policies and justice systems.
Representing UNEP, Mr. Samuel Mghendi from the Policy and Programme Division highlighted the importance of mainstreaming gender equality in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and digital technologies. “If women are excluded from digital innovation spaces, they are excluded from shaping the environmental solutions of the future,” he explained. “Gender-responsive data and inclusive science are essential for evidence-based policy and accountability.” The discussion also explored the growing role of women scientists in combating climate misinformation, strengthening environmental monitoring and ensuring that technological innovations are rights-based and ethically governed.
Voices That Inspire
Beyond policy discussions, the event created space for powerful personal stories.
One of the most moving moments came from Ms. Grace Wanjiku Kiarie, Principal of Thika High School for the Blind, who spoke about the importance of inclusive STEM education for girls with disabilities. Her message was simple yet profound: talent exists everywhere, but opportunity does not. By expanding access to science education and supportive learning environments, she explained that girls with disabilities can become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.
Participants were also inspired by a video message from Nobel Peace Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, who reflected on the connection between human rights, justice and environmental protection. Her message resonated deeply with the audience: justice systems that protect women defenders are essential for safeguarding both people and the planet.
A Platform for Change
The event concluded with reflections from Ms. Maria Dotsenko, Head of the Quality Assurance Section (QAS) in UNEP’s Policy and Programme Division, who outlined key priorities moving forward. She highlighted that UNEP remains committed to working closely with all UN entities and partners to ensure that women and girls are not only included – but empowered, protected, and leading in shaping the environmental future of our region and our world.
Looking Ahead
The Nairobi commemoration reinforced a powerful truth: the path toward gender equality and environmental sustainability is inseparable.
At a time when the world faces escalating environmental challenges and widening digital divides, women’s leadership in science, governance and activism is not optional; it is indispensable.
Rights must be protected.Justice must be delivered.And action must accelerate - for ALL women and girls.
And when women lead - from laboratories to courtrooms, from classrooms to climate negotiations- the impact reaches far beyond gender equality. It shapes a more just, resilient and sustainable world for everyone.
