The three-day event is being held under the theme “Enhancing Science-Policy Interface: Institutional Strengthening for Data Sharing, Compliance, and Enforcement.” 

It is organized by the UN Environment Program’s Regional Office for Africa (UNEP-ROA) in partnership with the Africa Sustainability Program of the Centre for Environment and Development for the Arab Region and Europe (CEDARE).

The forum brings together heads of Environmental Protection Agencies (EPAs), directors of environmental departments from African nations, members of the Africa Group within UNEP’s Committee of Permanent Representatives, and international experts. 
It aims to strengthen environmental policy implementation, foster collaboration, and address pressing environmental challenges across the continent.

Building on the outcomes of the first AFEPA meeting in Kigali, Rwanda, in 2023, the second roundtable will deepen efforts to enhance data sharing, compliance, and enforcement mechanisms. 

Key highlights include the launch of a digital platform for environmental data exchange, improving communication between African EPAs, and fostering stronger regional cooperation in environmental monitoring and enforcement. 

Participants will also revisit and update AFEPA’s strategic blueprint to align with emerging priorities.

Minister Fouad emphasized Egypt’s commitment to integrating scientific research into environmental policy. 

She highlighted that studies have identified Egypt’s northern Gulf of Aqaba coast as a resilient region against climate change impacts, underscoring the importance of measures to preserve the Red Sea coast and contribute to global biodiversity goals, including designating 30 percent of the planet as protected areas by 2030.

“This second roundtable is a critical milestone in harmonizing environmental policies, strengthening institutional capacities, and advancing sustainable development across Africa,” said CEDARE Chief Technical Advisory and Knowledge Management Programme Director, Ahmed Abdelrehim.

“CEDARE is proud to support these efforts through the AFEPA digital platform,” Abdelrehim added.

Expected outcomes include improved data flow among African EPAs, enhanced frameworks for collaboration between EPAs and diplomats, and an updated action plan outlining clear strategies to advance Africa’s collective environmental agenda.