Ghanaian appointed S. Sudan humanitarian coordinator

May 29, 2015 (JUBA) – The United Nations secretary-general, Ban Ki-moon announced on Friday the appointment of Eugene Owusu as deputy special representative of its mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).

Owusu who hails from Ghana will reportedly also serve as the world body’s resident coordinator, humanitarian coordinator, and resident representative of the UN Development Programme (UNDP).

The Ghanaian will succeed Toby Lanzer, who is due to take up the new post of regional humanitarian coordinator for the Sahel region.

“The secretary-general is grateful for Mr. Lanzer’s dedicated service with the United Nations in the Republic of South Sudan,” said Ki-moon.

The Ghanaian reportedly brings to his new position extensive experience in international development and humanitarian affairs.

Currently, Owusu is the UN resident coordinator, humanitarian coordinator and resident representative of UNDP in the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, a position held since August 2010.

Before joining the UN, Owusu who holds a doctorate degree in Agricultural Economics from the United States, reportedly worked for the private sector in the United Kingdom.

(ST)