Kisumu Governor Peter Anyang’ Nyong’o has been appointed as a UN advisor on local governments.
The second-term governor announced in a statement on Thursday about the new role, committing to serve diligently.
“It is with humility that I accept my appointment as UN Advisor on Local Governments, promising that I will do my best to promote the ideals and objectives of the UN as a member of the Advisory Group in advancing the cause of local and regional governments,” Nyong’o stated.
The governor was appointed by UN Secretary-General António Guterres and will be advising the SG on matters of local and regional governments' engagement and action issues.
As an advisor, his contributions will help Guterres and UN Member States make comprehensive decisions about recovery measures for crises, and implement international agreements and standards on sustainable development, gender equality, social inclusion, and climate action among other areas.
Notably, this is not the Governor’s first international appointment.
Nyong’o has served on several international committees and Boards including the Africa Monitor; The Nelson Mandela Institute for Science Technology and the Advancement of Knowledge; and the UN Committee of Experts on Public Administration (CEPA).
Currently, he is the Vice President of East Africa for the United Cities and Local Governments of Africa (UCLGA).
Locally, the professor has served as the Minister for Planning and National Development (2003-2005), Minister for Medical Services (2008-2013), Senator of Kisumu County (2013-2017) and presently as Governor, of Kisumu County.
Nyong’o’s naming follows the appointment of Sports CS Ababu Namwamba to the UN just a few weeks ago.
Namwamba was appointed to the United Nations (UN) Global Leadership Council of Generation Unlimited (GenU) by President William Ruto where he will advance the Kenyan youth agenda on a global level.
