The Global Center on Adaptation (GCA), an international organisation that champions climate action, is reportedly considering relocating fully to Nairobi, Kenya, following rising tensions with the Dutch government.
Currently operating through dual headquarters in Rotterdam and Nairobi, GCA influences global climate policies, investments, and public-private collaborations. However, a report by the NL Times revealed growing friction between the Dutch government and GCA, with The Hague citing budget cuts and concerns over the organisation’s increasing ties with Kenya.
The tension intensified earlier this year when GCA Director Patrick Verkooijen praised President William Ruto during a state visit, calling him “a true leader in a turbulent world.” The remarks, which broke diplomatic protocol, reportedly angered Dutch officials. Questions about governance have also emerged after Verkooijen became affiliated with the University of Nairobi in 2024 and subsequently awarded the institution €1.2 million (Ksh181 million) in contracts criticised by some as a conflict of interest.
Financial backing for the GCA has also taken a hit. The United Kingdom recently withdrew support, while the Gates Foundation is reportedly weighing a similar decision. Despite this, former UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has urged the Dutch government to maintain ties with the organisation, warning that severing relations could harm global climate adaptation efforts.
Kenya, meanwhile, is fast emerging as a global hub for multilateral organisations. UNICEF, UNFPA, and UN Women have announced plans to relocate their operational bases to Nairobi in 2025, joining UNEP and UN-Habitat in Gigiri. The World Food Programme (WFP) also recently moved its East and Southern Africa hub from Johannesburg to Nairobi.
If GCA completes its shift to Kenya, it will further cement Nairobi’s growing role as one of only four global cities—alongside New York, Geneva, and Vienna to host multiple UN headquarters. This move would not only boost Kenya’s diplomatic stature but also reinforce its positioning as Africa’s climate action leader.
