Nairobi, Kenya | 26–27 January 2026
Forest Friends of Kenya (FFoK) extends its sincere appreciation to the IGAD Climate Prediction and Applications Centre (ICPAC) and its partners for the invitation to participate in the 72nd Greater Horn of Africa Climate Outlook Forum (GHACOF-72), convened in Nairobi under the theme “Advancing Climate Services for Resilient Communities and Sustainable Development in the Greater Horn of Africa.”
GHACOF-72 brought together climate scientists, National Meteorological and Hydrological Services, policymakers, development partners, researchers, and practitioners to review the performance and impacts of the October–December (OND) 2025 season, present the consolidated regional climate outlook for the March–May (MAM) 2026 season, and discuss preparedness, early warning, and anticipatory action strategies for climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, water, health, and disaster risk management.
Forest Friends of Kenya participated in GHACOF-72 as a youth- and community-focused forest conservation and climate action organisation, contributing grassroots perspectives that link climate services to ecosystem protection, environmental education, and community resilience. FFoK’s engagement aligns with its ongoing work in forestry, nature-based solutions, youth empowerment, and the translation of climate information into locally relevant action, particularly through forest conservation initiatives and climate education programs.
FFoK commends ICPAC’s deliberate inclusion of youth participation, supported by the Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) through the project “Enhancing the Preparedness of African Countries and Regions for Climate Change Solution Planning and Implementation Capacity.” The platform provided opportunities for young climate actors to share insights on climate risks and impacts, showcase climate-smart innovations, and engage directly with regional institutions and decision-makers.
The Forum reaffirmed the importance of inclusive, science-driven, and people-centred climate services in advancing resilient communities and sustainable development across the Greater Horn of Africa. It also highlighted the critical role of youth and community-based organisations in bridging climate science, policy, and on-the-ground implementation.
Forest Friends of Kenya is grateful for the opportunity to be part of GHACOF-72 and looks forward to continued collaboration with ICPAC and regional partners in advancing climate-informed, forest-based, and youth-led solutions that contribute to resilience, sustainable livelihoods, and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land).
