5–9 October 2026 | Maseno University, Kisumu, Kenya

The International Science, Technology and Innovation Centre for South-South Cooperation under the auspices of UNESCO (ISTIC), together with Maseno University, the Future Earth Africa Hub Leadership Centre, the National Research Fund Kenya, the Landscape Alliance and other partners, supported the 3rd East Africa Regional Capacity Building Workshop on Strengthening Science Diplomacy for Sustainable Development, held from 5 to 9 October 2026 in Kisumu, Kenya.

Building on previous editions in 2024 and 2025, the workshop brought together researchers, policymakers, research managers and representatives of scientific institutions from across East Africa to strengthen practical competencies in science diplomacy and regional cooperation.

The five-day programme focused on bridging science, policy and diplomacy, with particular emphasis on translating scientific knowledge into policy engagement, partnerships and collaborative action. Sessions covered science advice, international research cooperation, negotiation, stakeholder engagement, consensus building and leadership, supported by practical exercises and simulations.

ISTIC contributed technical expertise and facilitated sessions on negotiation, communication and strategies for developing and sustaining regional and international partnerships. Discussions also explored science diplomacy from African and wider Global South perspectives, highlighting the importance of equitable partnerships and South-South cooperation.

The workshop concluded with a dialogue on the future of science diplomacy in East Africa, identifying opportunities for continued regional collaboration and the development of a community of practice.

The initiative reflects ISTIC’s continued commitment to strengthening science diplomacy capabilities and institutional partnerships across the Global South, including through its emerging Science Diplomacy for the Global South (SD4GS) initiative with regional partners.