The Mountain Partnership will hold elections for new members of the Steering Committee (SC) during the Seventh Global Meeting (GM) of the Mountain Partnership (MP), which will take place in Andorra La Vella, Andorra from 26 to 28 March 2026.
The SC provides strategic and programmatic guidance to the MP, approves its annual workplan and serves as the representative body of MP members between Global Meetings. Members (and alternate members) of the SC do not represent their own institutions, but rather their respective electoral groups. Close consultation with their constituencies should therefore be maintained throughout the SC mandate. SC members serve a four year mandate starting from the day of their election. Members may be reelected.
During their first meeting, SC members elect, by consensus, a Chair and up to two Vice Chairs. These roles are held for the full duration of the SC mandate.
Nomination of candidates
Election of the SC
Candidacies per Electoral Group
Governments
Motivation for nomination: We are a mountain country which is the major hub of the Hindu-Kush Himalayas, and most importantly biodiversity rich, due to connectivity of diverse vertical landscape. Our mountains are most fragile and vulnerable due to prominent impacts of climate change. Millions of people rely on these areas for their livelihoods through traditional practices of agriculture and livestock farming.
Motivation for nomination: Kyrgyzstan is committed to advancing the Five Years of Action for the Development of Mountain Regions through strengthened global cooperation. As Chair of the UNFCCC negotiating Mountain Group, the Kyrgyz Government is leading efforts to mainstream mountains and climate change. Through facilitated coordination among mountain countries, Kyrgyzstan seeks to amplify the collective voice of mountain communities and promote the institutionalization of the Expert Mountain and Climate Dialogue. Kyrgyzstan will host the Second Global Mountain Summit “Bishkek+25” in 2027. This event will serve as a unified platform for all partners to strengthen synergies, share sustainable solutions, and accelerate SDG implementation in mountain regions.
Motivation for nomination: Andorra, represented by Noelia Souque and Silvia Ferrer, is seeking re-election to the Mountain Partnership Steering Committee for three key reasons. First, as Andorra’s subject lead, Ambassador Souque drives mountain advocacy globally, ensuring strong international engagement and policy influence on climate action, sustainable tourism and ecosystems protection with strong policy measures. Second, Andorra is a climate champion as the first mountain country to close the Enhanced Transparency Framework under the Paris Agreement, demonstrating leadership and credibility in climate action. Third, Andorra is committed to the Mountain Partnership funding and organising the upcoming global meeting, coordinating capacity, and dedication to advancing sustainable mountain development worldwide.
Motivation for nomination: We have the experience/expertise in socio-economic development in mountain areas. We have created best practice examples for mountain regions that can be disseminated and replicated. We are active and recognized members of relevant European organizations in the field.
Motivation for nomination: Chile is a predominantly mountainous country, where the Andes define water security, ecosystems, and livelihoods, providing deep, practical expertise on mountain challenges and opportunities. Chile has strong institutional capacity and science-based policymaking, allowing it to contribute credible, transferable solutions for sustainable mountain development. Chile will serve as Pro Tempore Coordinator of the Andean Mountain Initiative in 2026–2027, enhancing regional coordination and representation within the Mountain Partnership Steering Committee.
Peru
Motivation for nomination: Peru will continue to actively contribute to the mountains and glaciers agenda, a national priority for a country that is home to 68% of the world’s tropical glaciers, where more than 20% of the territory consists of high-mountain ecosystems and over 25% of the population lives in those areas. In this regard, Peru advances this agenda in multilateral forums: at COP30, it supported the inclusion of a dialogue on the issue; it endorsed the COP29 Declaration on Climate Change, Mountains and Glaciers; and, at UNEA-7, it co-sponsored the Resolution on the preservation of glaciers and the cryosphere.
Motivation for nomination: Our goal is to bridge the gap between scientific research and actionable policy—ensuring Mountain Partnership initiatives are grounded in sound geological and hydrological science while remaining accessible to diverse stakeholders. Our expertise in geology and hydrogeology will help in evidence-based policy recommendations for disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation strategies, and resilient infrastructure planning—directly supporting the Partnership's goals of building sustainable and safe mountain communities. We bring specialized knowledge and experience for MPS work in sustainable development such as water security.
Malawi
Motivation for nomination: Malawi has raised the profile of mountains in Africa. Malawi has been a key member for the African Region Mountain Forum attending and being a part of a number of high profile events e.g. the World Mountain Forum in Cusco, Peru and Mbale Uganda, the Africa Mountain Forum in Rwanda, Global Meeting in Rome (2017) and Global Meeting in Aspen (2022). Malawi has been very consistent and very active in advocacy work resource mobilization for mountains and has been organizing various events to mark the International Mountain Day in Malawi since 2019. The most recent one was the IMD 2025 held in the northern region of Malawi.
Motivation for nomination: Uganda is expressing its interest as a member of the Steering Committee of the Mountain Partnership due to its outstanding mountain heritage and proven leadership. Home to the iconic Mount Rwenzori, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Africa’s highest non-volcanic range with permanent glaciers, Uganda has over 4,000 km² of highland ecosystems supporting more than three million people vulnerable to climate change. The country has pioneered Africa’s first National Sustainable Mountain Development Strategy and embedded mountain protection in its National Environment Act. Having chaired the Sub-Saharan Africa group twice and strengthened regional platforms, Uganda brings experience, coordination capacity, and commitment to advance resilient, sustainable mountain development globally.
Intergovernmental Organizations
International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD)
Motivation for nomination: As an intergovernmental knowledge and development organisation serving eight Regional Member Countries across the Hindu Kush Himalaya, ICIMOD brings over 40 years of science–policy–practice leadership for sustainable mountain development and long-standing engagement with the Mountain Partnership. ICIMOD bridges governments, academia, and communities across one of the world’s most climate-vulnerable mountain regions. ICIMOD has a proven track record in translating mountain research into global advocacy and multilateral processes. ICIMOD also has a strong capacity to leverage alliances, resources, and regional cooperation for collective mountain action.
World Meteorological Organization
Motivation for nomination: The World Meteorological Organization brings globally recognized expertise in climate science, hydrology and atmospheric monitoring, providing authoritative data, forecasting, and risk assessment that support evidence-based decision-making for mountain ecosystems and climate resilience, making them a suitable member of the Mountain Partnership Steering Committee.
Global Civil Society Organizations
India Middle East Agri Alliance Ecosystem
Motivation for nomination: IMEAA ecosystem brings a rare ability to turn advocacy into action through practical, market-linked solutions for mountain communities. Having mobilized over US$1.5 billion in trade and investments, IMEAA connects smallholder livelihoods, value addition, trade, finance, startups, and partnerships, helping translate ideas into real projects. IMEAA also offers a strong Global South coalition perspective across South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and emerging markets, strengthening South-South collaboration. Finally, IMEAA represents a responsible, inclusive private-sector engagement model focused on practical community benefit, well suited to the Partnership’s evolving governance and its goal of sustainable mountain development for all member constituencies.
International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA)
Motivation for nomination: UIAA as network of mountaineering organisations has on the ground organisations in 77 countries, and can connect between the global and local level, a liaison between global policy and advocacy and local action and challenges. I can also represent the global challenges of a network of organisations too. As a member of the UIAA mountain protection commission and climate action group, my expertise on mountain protection, climate action and sustainable tourism can support action by the Mountain Partnership. We can also support helping the MP on opportunities for funding, while also supporting innovation and community-supported ideas.
The Sustainable Fibre Alliance is a global multi-stakeholder initiative dedicated to transforming the cashmere supply chain into a model of sustainability. We work directly with mountain communities — in particular nomadic herders in the high-altitude rangelands of Mongolia and expanding into China — through the SFA Cashmere Standard. Our work focuses on sustainable management and restoration of fragile mountain rangeland ecosystems; combating desertification, overgrazing, and biodiversity loss; strengthening the livelihoods and resilience of mountain pastoralists; promoting high animal welfare standards; and connecting responsible mountain producers to ethical global fashion markets.These activities directly support the core objectives of the Mountain Partnership: enhancing the well-being of mountain people while protecting and restoring mountain environments. We believe SFA’s practical field experience, supply-chain expertise, and market-based approach to sustainable natural resource management in mountain regions would bring a valuable and complementary perspective to the Steering Committee. We are fully committed to actively participating in the Steering Committee’s work, including contributing to strategic direction, programmatic orientation, and collective impact.
Donor Organizations
Motivation for nomination: Italy’s candidature is rooted in its longstanding commitment as a founding member of the Partnership. Since its inception, Italy has actively contributed – also through the work carried out within the Steering Committee – to defining its objectives and guiding principles and has consistently supported initiatives aimed at improving the livelihoods of mountain communities and safeguarding mountain ecosystems worldwide. As a major contributor, Italy has provided sustained support to the Mountain Partnership Secretariat in addressing the global challenges affecting mountain regions. If elected, Italy will continue to work closely with all Members to promote dialogue, strengthen cooperation and enhance the collective impact of the Partnership in advancing sustainable development in mountain areas. Italy would be honored to receive the support of the Membership for its candidature and reaffirms its firm commitment to furthering the shared goals of the Mountain Partnership in a spirit of cooperation and mutual trust.
Major Group Organizations
Organization: 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking
Motivation for nomination: We have work experience in mountain sustainable development, particularly working with remote mountain villages and committees across Nepal, ensuring that community voices shape policy and action. We have deeply aligned with the mission and vision of the Mountain Partnership, and have actively contributed to advancing its goals through collaboration, advocacy, and program implementation. 3 Sisters Adventure Trekking provides strong, regionally grounded leadership for fostering growth of sustainable development.
Organization: Alliance for Integrated Development Nepal (AID Nepal)
Motivation for nomination: Since 2006, our organization Aid Nepal has worked at the grass-root level mobilizing poor and disadvantaged communities to improve their livelihood and sensitize them to natural resources conservation. The Organization's work focuses on the main four pillars: Social, economic, environmental and capacity building of the grass root communities. It has completed more then 100 projects with cooperation and supports of the government and other bilateral and international institutions. Aid Nepal carries out basic project design, project need assessment, project monitoring and evaluation, training and capacity building programme implementation and joint venture studies. The organization has completed more then 100 projects /programmes with cooperation and support of the government and international/bilateral institutions. Among these programmes, over 50 programmes were implemented with women-led organizations. Where Biodiversity Conservation, Wet-land (Ramsar site) conservation, livelihood promotion, conservation farming and enhancing agro-food value chains process of mountain produces in mountain are the main programmes. Aid Nepal was awarded the Equator Award 2014. Therefore, we are pleased to nominate Aid Nepal for the Mountain Partnership Steering Committee.
Organization: Association of Family Forest Owners Nepal (AFFON)
Motivation for nomination: AFFON directly represents small holders family forest farmers and communities, ensuring that local voices are included in global decision-making. The association's field experience helps shape policies that are practical, farmers friendly and community-driven. AFFON has demonstrated commitment to sustainable forest management, biodiversity conservation and climate resilience agroforestry techniques in high hill and lower mountain areas. AFFON's hands on projects align closely with the goals of the Mountain Partnership. AFFON connects local small holder family forest farmers and communities with regional and international networks. As a Steering Committee member, AFFON can enhance knowledge sharing, partnerships and coordinated action among mountain stakeholders.
Organization: Bangladesh Mountaineering Federation
Motivation for nomination: Bangladesh Mountaineering Federation promotes sustainable mountain development, climate resilience and youth engagement in Bangladesh and the South Asian region. Firstly, we bring strong grassroots experience, directly working with mountain communities on awareness, environmental conservation and capacity building initiatives. Secondly, we ensure youth leadership and inclusive participation, amplifying the voices of local communities in global mountain policy dialogues. Thirdly, we are committed to collaboration, transparency and contributing strategically to the Mountain Partnership’s four-year vision, strengthening regional cooperation and sustainable mountain governance.
Organization: Devcom-Pakistan
Motivation for nomination: Members should vote for Devcom-Pakistan for three compelling reasons. Firstly, the organization brings over two decades of leadership in mountain advocacy, consistently mainstreaming mountain and climate issues through policy dialogue and multi-stakeholder engagement. It has projected the climate vulnerability of Pakistan’s mountains and the wider Asia-Pacific region at international forums, highlighting glacier retreat, water insecurity, biodiversity loss and community resilience challenges. Despite facing immense challenges and sustained advocacy work, Pakistan has never been represented on the Steering Committee. Second, Devcom-Pakistan convenes governments, civil society, academia, youth and private sector actors to translate commitments into practical action. Third, the organization offers an inclusive, results-driven approach that amplifies grassroots voices, strengthens regional cooperation, and advances sustainable mountain development globally.
Organization: Dhankuta Municipality
Motivation for nomination: Dhankuta Municipality should be elected to the Steering Committee for three key reasons. Firstly, the Organization brings strong experience in advancing sustainable mountain development through inclusive, multi-stakeholder collaboration at local and national levels. Secondly, Dhankuta Municipality is committed to actively representing the electoral group, ensuring clear communication, accountability and regular consultation to reflect shared priorities. Thirdly, the organization will contribute proactively to the Mountain Partnership’s strategic direction by supporting advocacy, joint action and resource mobilization that deliver tangible results for mountain communities and ecosystems.
Organization: Doers
Motivation for nomination: Doers has been working towards interdisciplinary aspects of disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) for the past 20 years. Fully supporting the mission of the Mountain Partnership, the organization been engaging with the key stakeholders (Government, CSOs, local communities, regional organizations, like ICIMOD, GBP-NIHE, and private sector) to advance their work in the region. As an SC member, Doers will promote the causes of MP in a proactive manner, while assisting the SC in its functions, such as strategy formulation & programmatic advice/support in the Asia-Pacific.
Organization: Green Foundation Nepal
Motivation for nomination: Green Foundation Nepal brings over two decades of leadership in community forestry, land tenure and mountain livelihoods, ensuring that grassroots realities inform regional and global dialogue. The foundation has advanced inclusive enterprise models that strengthen resilience and local economies in mountain landscapes and have strong experience in multi stakeholder coordination, policy engagement and institutional governance, contributing to transparent and accountable decision making. Green Foundation Nepal's long standing commitment to sustainable mountain development and collaborative partnerships aligns closely with the vision and strategic priorities of the Mountain Partnership.
Organization: Himalayan Circuit
Motivation for nomination: Himalayan Circuit should be elected to the Steering Committee because it brings proven expertise in sustainable mountain livelihoods and value‑chain development, directly supporting the Mountain Partnership’s programmatic orientation and the implementation of the Mountain Agenda. Second, its strong regional networks across the Himalayan belt enable effective constituency representation and continuous engagement, a core Steering Committee function. Finally, Himalayan Circuit actively contributes to advocacy and knowledge‑sharing through mountain‑focused initiatives aligned with global processes, helping strengthen the Partnership’s visibility and impact.
Organization: Horticulture Association of Bhutan
Motivation for nomination: Horticulture Association of Bhutan has a strong commitment to supporting local farmers and promoting sustainable agriculture practices in their community and have demonstrated leadership skills and a track record of successful project management, which will be valuable in helping the Steering Committee achieve its goals. The association is dedicated to fostering collaboration and communication among committee members and stakeholders to ensure that the needs and concerns of our community are effectively addressed.
Organization: Institute For Sustainable Development And Research (ISDR)
Motivation for nomination: Institute For Sustainable Development And Research (ISDR) is a registered non-profit, non-governmental civil society organization working for sustainable development in association with national and international institutions in Asia and the Pacific, Europe and North America, Africa and the Latin America region. ISDR has the consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (UN-ECOSOC), United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), United Nations Finance for Development (UN-FfD), United Nations Centre for Human Settlements (UN-Habitat) and the FAO Mountain Partnership. ISDR works with community Groups, NGOs, VOs and international institutes, universities and research institutes for the achievement of the aims of the Global Mountain Partnership through sustainable development goals implementation. ISDR has organized several international programmes related to the Mountain Partnership. With this short and brief commitment to the work plan of FAO MP, ISDR sincerely requests to consider their organization for the Steering Committee Members of FAO Mountain Partnership for the successful implementation of Mountain Partnership plan and the opportunity may please be given to serve the Mountain communities and stakeholders in India and the Asia-Pacific region at large.
Organization: Karnali Integrated Rural Development And Research Centre (KIRDARC)
Motivation for nomination: KIRDARC is based in Nepal, which has a vulnerable ecosystem with the highest mountain in the world. KIRDARC has previously served on the SC and has the capacity and experiences, as well as the linkages with other stakeholders for policy and advocacy for the mountain agenda.
Organization: Pragya Seeds
Motivation for nomination: Commitment to Sustainable Mountain Development - Pragya Seeds is deeply committed to promoting sustainable development in mountain regions through inclusive policies, research, and community-based initiatives. Their experience enables them to contribute effectively to the Mountain Partnership’s mission of protecting mountain ecosystems while improving livelihoods. Pragya Seeds has extensive experience in coordination, decision-making and working with diverse stakeholders at national and international levels and can actively support the Steering Committee by fostering partnerships, encouraging dialogue and ensuring transparent and participatory governance. Coming from a country with significant mountain regions, Pragya Seeds understands the challenges faced by mountain communities, including climate change, economic vulnerability, and limited access to resources. We will bring a practical, ground-level perspective to the Steering Committee and advocate for policies that reflect the real needs and voices of mountain people.
Organization: Prakriti (Greenfuture TC)
Motivation for nomination: Prakriti has extensive expertise in navigating funding uncertainties and fragmented humanitarian/development discourse to better support underfunded mountain regions. The organization has a strong commitment to advocacy, interaction and networking with governments, partners, institutions and communities to uncover innovations and collaborative opportunities. Prakriti's work demonstrates strong dedication to highlighting mountain-specific challenges and fostering connections with global forums for enhanced focus and action.
Organization: Rural Technology and Development Centre
Motivation for nomination: The Rural Technology and Development Centre offers three key contributions to the Steering Committee. Firstly, they facilitate equity-based, mountain-specific and inclusive development models through local governments, ensuring policies respond to fragile mountain ecosystems and marginalized communities. Secondly, the organization promotes mountain-focused agroecological practices that strengthen nutrition security and resilient livelihoods. Thirdly, The Rural Technology and Development Centre supports the localization of the Sustainable Development Goals in mountain regions to advance just, sustainable development. Importantly, the organization represents the neglected and historically excluded Dalit mountain communities of the Indian Himalayas, ensuring their voices and priorities are reflected in global mountain governance.
Motivation for nomination: We are committed to sustainable mountain development, bringing extensive experience in programme management and policy advocacy. Our strategic vision aligns with the Mountain Partnership's goals, ensuring effective implementation of the mountain agenda. Furthermore, we are dedicated to fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, representing regional interests while promoting global best practices. Our proactive approach and strong communication skills will enhance the Steering Committee's initiatives, driving impactful results for mountain communities.
Motivation for nomination: CAMP Alatoo Public Foundation has over 20 years of experience improving livelihoods of mountain communities in Central Asia while promoting biodiversity conservation, climate adaptation, and sustainable natural resource management. The organization has successfully implemented around 130 projects across the region, combining international approaches with local knowledge. Our long-term, field-based work with mountain communities and national authorities enables us to translate strategic goals into practical, implementable solutions. As a Steering Committee member, CAMP Alatoo would bring strong regional experience, grounded expertise, and a commitment to ensuring that global mountain policies reflect real needs and realities on the ground.
Organization: AlbaForest
Motivation for nomination: We have extensive experience in natural resources, especially forests, having held a range of senior positions in governmental and international institutions, with Directorate General of Forests and Pastures (DGFP) and Protected Areas (PAs), within Ministry of Agriculture and Food (MoAF), 1990-2003. A special experience with FAO (2003-2004), on technical assistance to forestry secor (ALB/004/ITA), demonstrated a strong commitment to fostering international cooperation, advancing strategic policies, and contributing to sustainable development initiatives. Additional experience Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Water Management with World Bank (PMU, Project for Development of Natural Resources, 2010-2012), and over 20 years in a private NGO (ALBAFOREST CENTER, 2005-to-date).
Organization: Albanian Alps Alliance
Motivation for nomination: We have delivered practical, technology-enabled projects in the Albanian Alps, including QR-coded trail markers along hiking routes, contributing to visitor information, safety, and local engagement. These ""Smart Alps"" approaches are designed to be scalable and adaptable to other mountain regions. Members of the Alliance have contributed applied research and international presentations, including presentations at the XV World Forestry Congress and similar initiatives on disaster management, UAV monitoring, geospatial analysis, wetlands management, and forest-fire prevention in mountain areas. With experience as an alternate focal point for Europe Major Groups, we bring field-based, evidence-driven perspectives that link technology, community action, and Mountain Partnership priorities.
Organization: Centro de Investigação de Montanha
Motivation for nomination: Representing Euromontana/CIMO, our candidacy for reelection is supported by: Activities in our organizations show policy expertise and multi-level advocacy. It ensures that vital issues in mountain areas are effectively integrated into global, national and regional agendas. Active connection between research, practitioners, and authorities, promoting concrete knowledge transfer and multiple actions in very diverse mountain areas. Euromontana is a well-recognized organization composed of 60 members across 15 European countries, bringing important scalability and representation of mountain areas from the Carpathians to Iberia, and Scandinavia to Crete. We are committed to strengthening collaboration among members and amplifying the voices of mountain territories.
Organization: DVIURIS LTD
Motivation for nomination: For over a decade, DVIURIS LTD has advanced sustainable development, education, and community empowerment in mountain and environmentally sensitive regions — connecting innovation with local knowledge to build resilient, nature-positive communities. This long-standing commitment has established deep institutional credibility and field-proven expertise in upland development. Building on this foundation, and as President of Rotary Club Rome International with direct relationships with FAO and IFAD, we bring unparalleled capacity to anticipate emerging needs in agriculture and food security, providing early institutional and organizational support where it matters most. Experience, network, and purpose — fully aligned with this committee's mission
Organization: Source International
Motivation for nomination: We have more than 20 years of experience defending communities affected by environmental crimes. Over the past two decades, we have traveled extensively to collect scientific evidence and provide legal advice to communities impacted by extractive industries and other forms of environmental harm. Many of these communities are located in highland and mountain regions, which has allowed us to develop a deep connection to mountain ecosystems, particularly in relation to environmental protection and the defense of human rights.
Organization: Organization: Coalition Civile pour la Montagne
Motivation for nomination: As a coalition representing over 120 civil society organizations, CCM brings a unique perspective rooted in territorial justice and sustainable development. Having actively contributed to the 2026–2030 strategy, we ensure the momentum of current global mountain agendas is maintained. We bridge the gap between grassroots Moroccan mountain communities and national policy-making, ensuring local voices are heard in global forums. (COP, Africa Mount Forum) Our track record in championing dedicated mountain legislation proves our commitment to turning high-level goals into tangible legal frameworks. We look forward to the opportunity to continue serving the Partnership and advancing the resilience of mountain ecosystems worldwide.
Organization: Saudi Geographical Society
Motivation for nomination: A sustained dedication to mountain communities, reflected in our active engagement in MP initiatives, as well as our role in organizing MP events. We have published scientific publications on the UN Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, we have substantial experience managing and implementing projects in mountain regions. Through these initiatives, we have established strong professional networks. We are eager to expand our contributions to Middle East Green Initiative (MGI), a regional climate action program spearheaded by Saudi Arabia. The initiative seeks to implement the world’s largest afforestation program and supporting the achievement of emissions reduction targets.
Organization: University of Tehran
Motivation for nomination: Decades of experience in mountain-related scientific issues, particularly biodiversity, combined with an academic background in entomology and biological sciences, and firsthand familiarity with mountain climates and related issues as a mountain climber.
Organization: Aspen International Mountain Foundation
Motivation for nomination: Longstanding Commitment: AIMF has supported and actively engaged with the Mountain Partnership since its inception, participating in Global Meetings and other key convenings. Leadership in Action: AIMF hosted the 6th Global Meeting in Aspen in September 2022, bringing together international leaders and stakeholders to advance the Partnership’s mission.Regional Impact & Growth: Together with our regional partners — including senior officials and institutional leaders — we are deeply committed to advancing all aspects of the Mountain Partnership’s work. We are focused on strengthening mountain environments and communities while expanding the Mountain Partnership network in our region and creating meaningful opportunities for active participation.
Organization: The Resilience Institute (TRI)
Motivation for nomination: TRI is situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies and immersed in mountain culture and scholarship. TRI is engaged with multiple partners across the region on resilience strengthening initiatives. We have a deep appreciation and understanding of the importance of weaving multiple ways of knowing to advance the goals under the mountain partnership.
Organization: Fundación Agreste
Motivation for nomination: By regional Major Group consensus, and in line with the agreed internal selection criteria—institutional commitment, availability, and capacity to mobilize collaboration, We have been nominated to serve as member on the Steering Committee of the Mountain Partnership for the period 2026-2030. Fundación Agreste demonstrates sustained commitment to SMD, and other fragile ecosystems, and active engagement in regional and global processes. We have the experience and facilitation skills required to contribute effectively to strategic guidance, coordination, and follow-up of work plans. We are committed to strengthening regional cohesion, activating collaboration among members, and ensuring South America’s constructive participation in global advocacy and implementation efforts.
Organization: Research Center in Technologies for Society - Universidad del Desarrollo
Motivation for nomination: Commitment of the institution; Time available; Ability to bring the group together and build cohesion; and capacity to activate and promote collaborations from the region, mobilizing the members.
Organization: Albertine Rift Conservation Society
Motivation for nomination: Since its establishment 30 years ago, ARCOS has invested large part of its work in mountain ecosystems. For the last 15 years, ARCOS has led the coordination and facilitation of African stakeholders/Actors to engage in SMD Agenda in Africa. This has been through the Africa Regional Mountain Forum (ARMF) that was established in 2014 and ARCOS is the regional Secretariat. 2 years ago in 2024, ARCOS' excellence was recognized internationally by the King Albert I Memorial Foundation by receiving an award for promoting SMD in Africa. Today, we have built a strong network of mountain actors in Africa, from grassroot community to the high-level government and development agencies. With this short background, ARCOS is happy and ready to serve again for the MP Steering Committee the opportunity is given. We take this opportunity to appreciate the good work done by the MP Secretariat and all members, and we would be happy to build on your remarkable.
Organization: Cross River State
Motivation for nomination: Cross River State offers a unique blend of high-level diplomacy and deep-rooted field experience in African mountain conservation. Our proposed SC focal point has over 33 years of cross-sector leadership, and serves as the National Focal Point for the IUCN WCPA West and Central Africa Mountain Specialist Group, directly advancing the global Mountain Agenda. Cross River State has spearheaded ecological restoration in the Obudu Mountains and Cross River National Park, safeguarding vital water ecosystems and livelihoods and we are dedicated bridge-builder, ensuring inclusive governance by championing the voices of youth, women, and marginalized mountain communities in the Global South.
Organization: Foundation for Environment and Development (FEDEV)
Motivation for nomination: FEDEV has been a member of MP for more than two decades and have been active in Sustainable Mountain Development at the National, Regional and Global level. Cameroon is a bilingual country and can reach out both Francophone and Anglophone Africa with little challenges. Further, we have the experience in serving as a Steering committee member and this will add value to my services in that position if elected for another term.
Organization: International Centre for Environmental Education and Community Development (ICENEDEV)
Motivation for nomination: ICENECDEV will provide strategic/integrated guidance and add value to Mountain Partnership Networks and Sustainable Mountain Development Policies and we have more than 14 years experience with United Nations Environment Programme Major groups and stakeholders, Advisory Board Member with Sustainable Food Systems programme of the United Nations One Planet Network, United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change.
Organization: Mzuzu University
Motivation for nomination: We have championed many mountain conservation projects in Malawi and are well placed to support the realization of MP aspirations through implementation of the four year Strategy. We have served in the SADC CCARDESA Board as Chairperson of Programmes overseeing agriculture, environmental and natural resource research projects financed through CCARDESA. The experience would make a strong contribution to MP Steering Committee.
Organization: Qs Impact Kigali Rwanda Council
Motivation for nomination: As Council President of QS Impact Kigali Rwanda Council, we bring proven, results-driven leadership in sustainable mountain and ecosystem development. First, we represent a youth-led movement that has mobilized over 15 000 young people in climate action, tree planting (2 000+ native trees), and community resilience initiatives aligned with SDGs and Rwanda Vision 2050. Second, we also bring the grassroots implementation with policy advocacy, ensuring mountain communities’ voices shape strategy. Third, we bring measurable impact, partnership-building experience, and regional networks across East Africa, strengthening accountability, innovation, and inclusive governance within the Mountain Partnership Steering Committee.
