UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, is saddened by the passing of former Special Representative of the African Union in Somalia, Ambassador Nicolas Bwakira of Burundi.
Mr. Bwakira had a long and distinguished career with UNHCR, serving in several key positions between 1970 and 2002, prior to his roles with the African Union. He was the Director of UNHCR’s Regional Bureau for Africa, served as the agency’s Country Representative in Ethiopia and Angola, and coordinated the return of Namibians in exile.
Throughout his career, Mr. Bwakira was committed to peace and the protection of refugees and asylum-seekers. His resolve to improve their lives was legendary.
UN High Commissioner for Refugees, Filippo Grandi, and UNHCR colleagues around the world offer their sincere condolences, and are holding his family and friends in their thoughts at this difficult time.
Originally published by UNHCR on 09 March 2021.
