Ms. Razan Khalifa Al Mubarak, President of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), delivered a powerful keynote speech at the Africa Conservation Forum in Nairobi, Kenya. Addressing over 500 representatives, including government officials, civil society members, and indigenous peoples’ organizations, Ms. Al Mubarak emphasized the essential role of inclusive conservation and the integration of indigenous knowledge in tackling biodiversity loss and climate change.
Highlighting the interconnectedness of global environmental challenges, Ms. Al Mubarak referred to the recent 'UAE consensus' reached at COP28, which for the first time, positioned nature at the core of national climate plans. This strategic shift underscores the urgent need for a holistic approach to environmental issues, integrating biodiversity, climate change, and sustainable development goals.
Ms. Al Mubarak praised the efforts of the IUCN and its diverse members, who bring a wealth of perspectives and expertise to the table. “Our strength comes from this diversity, allowing us to develop and share unique knowledge products and policies that lead global conservation thinking,” she stated. The forum also served as a critical preparatory step for the upcoming IUCN World Conservation Congress to be held in Abu Dhabi in 2025, aiming to further shape public policy toward nature conservation.
In her speech, Ms. Al Mubarak also acknowledged the significant contributions of local communities and indigenous practices to sustainable outcomes, advocating for more profound engagement and co-design of conservation solutions. “In Africa, we see how indigenous practices and local stewardship lead to sustainable results,” she remarked, highlighting the continent's leadership in fostering just and equitable solutions.
As the world looks towards more integrated and inclusive conservation strategies, Ms. Al Mubarak’s leadership at the IUCN and her advocacy at international forums like the Africa Conservation Forum play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future that respects and utilizes the wisdom of those closest to the land.
Watch Razan’s Al Mubarak speech at IUCN’s Africa Conservation Forum in Nairobi, Kenya.