The upcoming UNEA-7 (United Nations Environment Assembly) starting in Nairobi on December 8, 2025, “Coffee at UNEA-7” refers to a specific, high-profile sustainability collaboration titled “Brewing Change.”
This is not just standard conference catering; it is a strategic partnership designed to align with the assembly’s theme of “Advancing sustainable solutions for a resilient planet”.
Here is what you need to know about the coffee experience planned for the assembly:
- The Collaboration: River Café × Barista Mtaani
The primary coffee presence described is a partnership between River Café and Barista Mtaani (an initiative by the Kenya Coffee School).
- River Café brings a culture of ethical dining and environmental stewardship.
- Barista Mtaani provides training excellence and youth empowerment.
- The Experience: “Espresso on the Move” by “Espresso on Wheels”
Instead of a static coffee stand, the collaboration features a popup Coffee Cart designed to be a “classroom without walls”.
- What it serves: Specialty Kenyan coffee brewed by trained youth baristas.
- The “Menu”: Beyond espresso, the experience serves “climate literacy.” Every cup is an opportunity to educate visitors on the climate story behind the bean.
- The Educational Themes
The coffee service is designed to spark conversation around specific sustainability goals relevant to UNEA-7 delegates:
- Climate Impact: How rising temperatures threaten coffee yields.
- Agriculture: The link between soil health and cup quality.
- Livelihoods: Why responsible sourcing is vital for rural farmers.
- Youth Innovation: How value addition by young people protects the future of Kenyan coffee.
- Alignment with UNEA-7 Goals
The initiative positions itself as a practical, on-the-ground demonstration of the high-level policy discussions happening at the assembly.
- Global Context: As leaders discuss global environmental governance, this cart provides a tangible example of “green entrepreneurship”.
- National Context: It showcases Kenya’s Vision 2030 pillars, specifically green growth, youth empowerment, and inclusive economic development.
- Who is Serving You?
The baristas staffing the cart are graduates of the Barista Mtaani program—young people and women empowered to be “climate ambassadors”. They are trained not just to make drinks, but to advocate for climate-smart agriculture and a low-carbon future in hospitality.