Zambian Scholar Appointed UN Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has welcomed the appointment of Professor Chaloka Beyani as the United Nations (UN) Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres announced Professor Beyani’s appointment on 22 August 2025. He becomes the first Zambian to hold the position, succeeding Alice Wairimu Nderitu of Kenya.

In a statement issued by Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, the Ministry described the appointment as “a source of immense national pride” and a recognition of Professor Beyani’s distinguished record in international law, human rights, and humanitarian affairs.

Professor Beyani, a renowned international lawyer with over four decades of experience, has worked extensively in peace mediation, constitutional and international law-making, and multilateral diplomacy – all crucial in the global fight against genocide.

The Ministry also highlighted Zambia’s role in combating atrocities, noting that the country acceded to the Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide in April 2022, with the treaty entering into force in July 2022. The Convention obliges member states to prevent and punish the crime of genocide.

“Professor Beyani’s appointment is not only a recognition of his personal distinction but also of Zambia’s continuing role in promoting international peace, security and human rights,” said Hon. Haimbe.

Zambia reaffirmed its commitment to supporting multilateralism and working with the UN to advance peace, security, and human rights across the world.