Nairobi is about to become more than just Kenya’s capital, it may soon be a major global diplomatic hub. Three United Nations agencies are already shifting part of their operations from New York and Geneva to Nairobi, in what experts are calling a historic policy shift.

According to People Daily Monday, July 22, 2025, the UN Environment Programme, UN-Habitat, and UNICEF are at the center of this transition. The move comes after a review ordered by UN Secretary-General António Guterres, who said:

“All secretariat entities in New York and Geneva have been asked to review their functions to determine if any can be removed from existing lower-cost locations.”

This move is about more than just cutting costs. Nairobi’s strategic location, improving infrastructure, and growing diplomatic influence are drawing global attention.

The UN Headquarters in Gigiri, already home to one of four main UN centers worldwide, will see an increase in activity. Experts say the relocation could boost real estate, hospitality, and tech investment in the city and surrounding areas.

The transition is already underway. UN agencies are shifting parts of their work here, and property developers and hospitality businesses are preparing for increased international demand.

It means more global presence, more jobs, and possibly a boost to Nairobi’s status as an African power city. But it also raises questions about whether our local systems like housing, roads, and utilities, are ready for the pressure.

This could mean more career opportunities for skilled young Kenyans, especially in international development, diplomacy, tech, and service industries. It also brings Nairobi closer to the global conversation, literally.

Should Nairobi and fully embrace its potential as a UN city?
Are we ready as Kenyans to support this transformation?