Dr Milambo Calls for Stronger African Engagement in UNDP, UNFPA and UNOPS Executive Boards
Zambia’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Dr Chola Milambo, has called for more coordinated and robust African participation in the Executive Boards of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS).
Speaking on behalf of Africa in his role as Vice President of the boards, Dr Milambo emphasised the need for African member states to participate fully, present consistent messaging, and actively drive discussions that reflect the continent’s interests.
He stressed that sustained engagement is crucial during the ongoing UN80 reform process, noting that careful risk analysis and timely board oversight are essential to safeguard Africa’s development priorities.
The upcoming Annual Session of the Executive Board, scheduled for 8–11 June 2026, will address UN80 implementation, ethics, annual agency reports, and the repositioning of the UN development system.
Dr Milambo encouraged early involvement in informal sessions to ensure African perspectives shape board decisions.
In addition, UNDP Administrator Alexander De Croo highlighted job creation as a key pathway to development, particularly for Africa’s young population, and reaffirmed UNDP priorities including economic prosperity, climate action, and strengthened governance, aligning with the continent’s development goals.
African member states at the briefing echoed the importance of a unified voice, warning that reforms risk advancing without adequate consideration of Africa’s interests if the continent does not engage proactively.
The Executive Board provides governance and oversight to ensure the effectiveness of UNDP, UNFPA, and UNOPS in delivering their mandates while promoting sound management and accountability.
