UN Secretary-General appoints Omar Abdi as DED of UN children’s fund

United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today announced the appointment of Omar Abdi, a Canadian national born in Somalia, as Deputy Executive Director of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).

Mr. Abdi is currently serving as UNICEF’s Comptroller.  Prior to that role, he served as UNICEF Deputy Executive Director, Management (2007-2010), Regional Director for Middle East and North Africa (2006-2007), and UNICEF Representative in several countries.

He brings a deep understanding of UNICEF’s programmes and operations.  Additionally, he has helped pioneer streamlining systems to strengthen results on the ground.

Mr. Abdi has a doctorate degree in development economics and a masters in international development, both from Cornell University, as well as a bachelor’s degree (magna cum laude) in civil engineering from the Somali National University.

Source: UN