Secretary-General Appoints Raisedon Zenenga of Zimbabwe Deputy Special Representative for United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia

United Nations Secretary‑General Ban Ki‑moon today announced the appointment of Raisedon Zenenga of Zimbabwe as his Deputy Special Representative of the United Nations Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM).

He will succeed Fatiha Serour of Algeria.  The Secretary‑General is grateful for Ms. Serour’s leadership, especially in support of the political process and of the human rights, rule of law and security institutions mandate of UNSOM.

Mr. Zenenga possesses a diverse and substantial background in political processes and mediation, proven skills in managing peacekeeping operations, and significant experience in working with Government and other key stakeholders in conflict and post-conflict settings.  He has over 30 years of United Nations, Government and diplomatic service experience, 21 of which he served with the Organization in the field including in Liberia, Iraq-Kuwait, Sierra Leone and Somalia.

Mr. Zenenga is currently the Deputy Special Representative (Political) with the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).  Prior to joining the Mission, he was a senior manager at United Nations Headquarters for 10 years, during which he supported several United Nations peacekeeping operations in Africa.

Educated at the University of Zimbabwe, Mr. Zenenga graduated in public administration and political science.  He also received diplomatic training from the Australian Development Assistance Bureau.

Mr. Zenenga is married and has three children.

__________

*     This supersedes Press Release SG/A/1315-AFR/2318-BIO/4343 of 13 January 2012.