Bridging Global Expertise and Local Wisdom: The Conduit Inaugurated at JKUAT
On June 2, 2025, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) made history by hosting Her Excellency Nataša Pirc Musar, PhD, President of Slovenia, for the landmark inauguration of The Conduit, a 6-meter Climate Intelligence Hub anchoring the innovative AquaTwin Project. This collaboration between JHUB Africa and Slovenia’s SPACE-SI (Slovenian Centre of Excellence for Space Sciences and Technologies) marked a significant milestone in Kenya-Slovenia relations and climate action initiatives.
Global Leaders Unite for Climate Action
The inauguration set the stage for the thought-provoking “One Climate, One Future” panel discussion, which brought together distinguished experts from international organizations, government, and grassroots initiatives. Mercy Juma Okande, World Food Programme Kenya’s Head of Communications, skillfully moderated the dialogue, weaving diverse perspectives into a cohesive narrative of hope and action.
The distinguished panel featured:
- HE Dr. Maalim Mohamud, Deputy Governor of Mandera, who articulated the unique challenges facing semi-arid counties like Mandera, emphasizing the critical need for locally tailored sustainable solutions.
- Mirey Atallah, Head of UNEP-WCMC’s Adaptation & Resilience Branch, who challenged conventional thinking by advocating for the integration of indigenous knowledge in modern beekeeping practices.
- Henriette Geiger, European Union Ambassador to Kenya, who highlighted the EU’s substantial €72 billion commitment to global climate action, with a particular focus on supporting less developed countries.
- Lauren Landis, World Food Programme Kenya Country Director, who shared compelling insights on the Smart Nyuki Project, demonstrating how beekeeping in regions like Wajir and Mandera is restoring ecosystems while diversifying livelihoods.
- Dr. Stephen Jackson, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Kenya, who emphasized the importance of rigorous analysis in public investment to ensure agriculture receives appropriate support.
Innovative Solutions to Climate Challenges
The panel addressed Kenya’s pressing climate realities,including prolonged droughts, erratic rainfall patterns, and ecosystem degradation through the lens of innovation and international solidarity. During the interactive Q&A session, Professor Joseph Wafula of JKUAT proposed incorporating Digital Twin Modelling into beekeeping practices, potentially revolutionizing data collection and sustainability efforts in the sector.
The Conduit itself, an artistic installation designed by renowned Slovenian artist Eva Petrič, stands as a powerful symbol that climate innovation must be human-centered, artistic, and accessible to all.
Global Media Spotlight
The summit catapulted JHUB Africa onto the global stage, with extensive media coverage highlighting African-led innovation and Slovenia-Kenya solidarity. The event was featured across major Kenyan media outlets, including People Daily, The Standard, Kenya News Agency, and Kenya Broadcasting Corporation, as well as receiving significant attention on broadcast and social media platforms.
As President Nataša Pirc Musar eloquently stated during the event: “There is only one Earth. We must protect it, not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.”
A Vision for the Future
As the discussion concluded, the hall resonated with a shared sense of purpose and commitment. The diverse voices from Wajir’s beekeepers to UNEP-WCMC’s visionaries, from World Food Programme’s change-makers to Slovenia’s champions of solidarity collectively wove a powerful narrative of hope and action.
By blending cutting-edge science, international solidarity, and sustainable practices, JHUB Africa and its partners are not merely adapting to climate change they are actively shaping a resilient, vibrant future for Africa and beyond.
Acknowledgments
We extend our sincere gratitude to Her Excellency Nataša Pirc Musar, PhD, President of Slovenia, for her visionary leadership and commitment to climate action. We also thank all panelists, participants, media partners, and the dedicated teams at JHUB Africa, JKUAT, and SPACE-SI who made this historic summit possible.
Join the Climate Intelligence Movement
The climate crisis demands collective action from all sectors of society. JHUB Africa invites researchers, technologists, policymakers, students, and community leaders to engage with The Conduit and the AquaTwin Project. Whether you’re interested in contributing technical expertise, participating in pilot programs, or supporting community implementation, there’s a role for you in this vital work. Climate intelligence is not just about data—it’s about connecting human wisdom with technological innovation to create sustainable solutions. Contact us at climate@jhubafrica.org to explore collaboration opportunities or visit our campus to experience The Conduit firsthand. Together, we can build climate resilience that honors both global expertise and local wisdom.