Dr Munang become first african appointed head of UN global environment monitoring systems
By Nambu Bernadette Franka
Cameroonian-born, Dr Richard Munang has been appointed Head of the Global Environment Monitoring Systems, GEMS at the United Nations Environment Programme.
The renowned scholar and multiple award-winning researcher’s appointment was made public on October 18, 2023 in a statement by the United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP.
According to the release, his appointment is due to the great contribution he has made as UNEP’s Africa Climate Change Coordinator and also as UNEP’s Deputy Regional Coordinator.
His mission as head of GEMS is to embark on a mission to make data the linchpin in combating the leading global crises – climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution.
“Under his leadership, GEMS will enhance the strategic use of data tools to monitor and assess environmental risks at various scales. The strategic monitoring and data analysis facilitated by GEMS will inform and empower nations and stakeholders to tailor solutions to their specific environmental challenges,” the release read.
Dr. Munang’s appointment comes at a time when the globe, Africa, and Cameroon grapple with environmental crises. Before his appointment, he occupied the position of Deputy Regional Director of UNEP Africa Office where he led and guided the execution of UNEP’s programmes in Africa. He led the implementation of UN reforms, advancing air quality solutions and curating lessons on leveraging environmental solutions to combat challenges like inflation, food insecurity and youth unemployment.
