Kenya has once again made its mark on the continental stage after Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (KAIST) chairperson Emmanuel Mutisya landed appointments at two critical committees of the African Forest Forum (AFF).
Mutisya, who also serves at the African Development Bank’s (AfDB) regional office in Nairobi, will join the Task Force on Resource Mobilisation (TFRM) and the Working Group on Climate Change (WGCC).
The prestigious appointments were approved by the AFF Governing Council during its 20th meeting held from April 24-25, 2025, and officially communicated to Mutisya in letters dated May 27, 2025.
“...the Governing Council of the African Forest Forum (AFF) approved your appointment as one of its members on its committee known as Working Group on Climate Change (WGCC). I wish to transmit this to you and congratulate on the same,” reads one of the letters in part.
It has been signed by AFF’s executive secretary and CEO, Prof. Labode Popoola.
The taskforce on resource mobilisation plays a vital role in advising the Forum on strategies to enhance fundraising and partnership development.
It supports the executive secretariat in identifying donors, coordinating strategic meetings, and ensuring the Forum is equipped with the resources necessary to advance its objectives.
Simultaneously, the Working Group on Climate Change provides strategic guidance on the Forum’s engagement with climate change issues.
The WGCC ensures that AFF remains responsive to emerging environmental challenges affecting Africa’s forests and offers expert insight into developing and adapting climate strategies across the continent.
Popoola praised Mutisya’s expertise and expressed the Forum’s confidence in his ability to contribute meaningfully to its mission.
“The Governing Council conveys its best wishes, as it hopes you will continue and sustain the strides that have recommended you to this important position. We look forward to your continued commitment and excellent services to the Forum,” he said.
Mutisya’s appointments underscore Kenya’s leadership in environmental policy and scientific advancement.
As chairperson of KAIST, he has championed innovation, sustainability, and research-driven solutions to Africa’s most pressing development challenges.
The AFF, headquartered in Nairobi, serves as a continental platform for dialogue and collaboration on sustainable forest management, conservation, and development.
Its aim is to improve livelihoods and strengthen environmental resilience across Africa.
