Kenya Hands Over Africa Group Chairmanship to Lesotho at UN

On 02 January 2026, the Africa Group in New York officially transitioned its Chairmanship from Kenya to Lesotho. The handover ceremony was hosted under the auspices of the Permanent Observer Mission of the African Union to the United Nations.

The event was attended by Mr. Jacob Nyakundi Ondari, Chargé d’Affaires a.i., representing H.E. Ambassador Ekitela Lokaale, Permanent Representative of Kenya to the United Nations, and the incoming Chair for January, H.E. Ambassador Matete Nena, Permanent Representative of the Kingdom of Lesotho to the UN.

During the ceremony, the two diplomats reviewed the upcoming agenda for January 2026 and reflected on key activities conducted by the Africa Group in November and December 2025. Discussions focused on strengthening coordination among African member states and ensuring unified positions on pressing global issues.

Under Lesotho’s leadership, the Africa Group will be responsible for coordinating common African positions on matters addressed at the United Nations throughout the month. This role includes promoting Africa’s priorities in international debates, fostering collaboration among member states, and ensuring consistent representation of the continent’s interests in global policy discussions.

The transition highlights the continued commitment of African nations to maintain active and coordinated engagement within the UN system, reinforcing the continent’s collective voice on the international stage.