In a significant move for international diplomacy, the United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has appointed Kenyan national Jean Njeri Kamau as the new UN Resident Coordinator in Guyana, effective September 15, pending approval from the Kenyan government.
This prestigious role makes Kamau the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system in the South American nation. “I am honored to take on this responsibility and look forward to working collaboratively to support Guyana’s development goals,” Kamau stated.
With over two decades of experience in human rights, political governance, and institutional development, Kamau is well-prepared for her new position. She recently served as Kenya’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and the Permanent Representative to the African Union.
“My mission will be to strengthen ties between the UN and the Guyanese government while helping implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development,” Kamau added.
Her extensive diplomatic career includes roles in South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, and Washington, D.C., and she has made significant contributions as the country director for Action Aid International and as the first executive director of the Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya.
Kamau holds a law degree from the University of Nairobi and a master’s degree in Democratic Studies from the University of Leeds. Her appointment marks a vital step in enhancing Kenya’s diplomatic relations with both the UN and Guyana.
