Jean Njeri Kamau has been appointed as the new United Nations Resident Coordinator in Guyana, effective September 15, as announced by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
In this capacity, Kamau will assume the role of the highest-ranking UN representative in the country, tasked with leading UN country teams and coordinating the organization’s support for Guyana’s implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Kamau brings a wealth of experience to her new position, with over two decades of work in human rights, development, political governance, and institutional development. Her distinguished career includes serving as Kenya’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union. Additionally, she has held diplomatic posts in various countries, including South Africa, Eswatini, Lesotho, and the United States.
Before her diplomatic service, Kamau made significant contributions in both the public sector and civil society. She served as the Country Director for ActionAid International in Kenya and Lesotho and notably as the inaugural Executive Director of the Federation of Women Lawyers, Kenya (FIDA-Kenya). Kamau’s academic background includes a Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Nairobi and a Master’s in Democratic Studies from the University of Leeds in the United Kingdom. The role of UN Resident Coordinator is of paramount importance in facilitating the UN’s activities within a host country.
As the Secretary-General’s designated representative, the Resident Coordinator ensures that UN operations align with the country’s needs and priorities while promoting the fundamental values, standards, and principles enshrined in the UN Charter. In Guyana, Kamau will spearhead the UN’s efforts to support the nation’s development goals with a particular focus on addressing critical issues such as poverty, inequality, climate change, and sustainable development. Kamau’s appointment comes at a time when the South American nation has been experiencing remarkable economic growth, largely driven by its recently discovered offshore oil reserves.
While this growth presents significant opportunities, it also brings challenges, particularly in ensuring sustainable development and equitable distribution of wealth. The UN’s support in Guyana encompasses various sectors, including governance, human rights, health, education, and environmental sustainability. Throughout her career, Kamau has demonstrated exceptional leadership and diplomatic acumen. Her tenure as Kenya’s Ambassador to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union was marked by significant contributions to strengthening diplomatic relations and promoting regional cooperation.
Her experience in various diplomatic posts has honed her ability to navigate complex political landscapes and foster international collaboration. In her roles within civil society, Kamau has been a staunch advocate for women’s rights and social justice. Her leadership at FIDA-Kenya was instrumental in advancing legal aid and advocacy for women’s rights in Kenya. Similarly, her work with ActionAid International focused on addressing poverty and promoting sustainable development in Kenya and Lesotho.
