Experts Demand Recognition At Conclusion Of World Congress In Nairobi

Landscape Architects from all over the world gathered to discuss how pivotal their profession is in shaping the future of transformation and long-term sustainability.

The two-day International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) World Congress held at Safari Park in Nairobi from September 28-29, 2023 explored new forms of collective problem-solving and cooperation while keeping climate change matters, social inequality and biodiversity at the forefront.

“The theme is exciting and thought-provoking. It is founded on the need for landscape architect professionals to reach out beyond their professional and cultural boxes, and learn from other cultures and disciplines in order to develop holistic solutions to our current borderless challenges,” said IFLA President Dr. Bruno Marques.

Delegates at the International Federation of Landscape Architects (IFLA) World Congress at Safari Park, Nairobi on September 29, 2023. /PHOTO.COURTESY

According to statistics, there are more than one million Landscape Architects worldwide, and IFLA represents 78 national members and more than 50,000 Landscape Architects. However, despite the huge number, there is still a need to create awareness and recognition of the profession.

“We need to leave no one behind regarding such conversations. Inclusion and social justice are important dimensions of sustainable and equitable development.

"We need to act local, think global and beyond borders the three sub-themes of the Congress,” added Florence Nyole, President of the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK)

Emina Kovacic, President of Architects Sweden emphasized the need to focus on the quality of education for our landscape architects and stated IFLA Africa’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with universities across the continent.

“Kenya and Sweden have two different geographical zones, but the effects of climate change have no borders. The bilateral form fits well with the theme.

"The aim is that the form and theme should reflect new methods of collective problem solving and infinite strategies, to find new solutions to critical social issues,” she said.

“Landscape architecture, architecture planning and urban design are disciplines that affect and influence the natural fabric of the environment.

"It means that for a balance to exist between the natural and the man-made urban settlement, a conscious effort must be made to merge the range of design and other associated design disciplines that impact the natural environment,” said Robert Kariuki, Landscape Architect.

The theme of this year’s congress was “Emergent Interaction” which aims at strengthening the landscape architecture in relation to Agenda 2030.