Cameroonian, Dr Richard Munang, shines again internationally.

The United Nations Environment Programme, UNEP, announced his appointment in a statement Wednesday October 18.

The release from the leading environmental authority at the United Nations, states that the recognition follows a trail of Dr Munang’s contribution as UNEP’s Africa Climate Change Coordinator and also as UNEP’s Deputy Regional Coordinator. 

The celebrated Cameroonian, with the appointment, becomes the first African to occupy the prestigious position at GEMS. 

In his new capacity, Dr Munang will now steer global endeavours in environmental monitoring to combat the pressing environmental issues of climate change, biodiversity loss and pollution/waste. 

As the head of Global Environment Monitoring Systems, Dr Munang will embark on a mission to make data the linchpin in combating the leading global crises - climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution/waste. 

Under his leadership, the Global Environment Monitoring Systems will enhance the strategic use of data tools to monitor and assess environmental risks at various scales, ensuring that policies and investments are precisely targeted to mitigate these risks. 

The strategic monitoring and data analysis facilitated by Global Environment Monitoring Systems under Dr Munang at the helm, will inform and empower nations and stakeholders to tailor solutions to their specific environmental challenges. 

Dr Munang’s appointment comes at a crucial time when the globe, Africa, and Cameroon grapple with environmental exigencies. 

Dr Munang’s track record in environmental sustainability 

Before his appointment, Dr Munang was occupying the position of Deputy Regional Director of UNEP Africa Office, where he led and guided the execution of UNEP’s programmes in Africa.

He led the implementation of UN reforms, advancing air quality solutions and curating lessons on leveraging environmental solutions to combat challenges like inflation, food insecurity, and youth unemployment, which stands as a testament to his visionary strategy for holistic, sustainable development. 

His quest for innovative solutions, informed by the latest scientific insights, has been instrumental in guiding nations towards sustainable pathways addressing climate commitments while ensuring food security, health, and economic growth. 

He pioneered initiatives translating climate commitments into investment frameworks, fostering private sector engagement in climate finance, and spearheading youth-centric climate action, empowering over 3 million youth through “ClimatePreneurship.” 

His innovative approaches and strategies in Cameroon and Africa, promoting biodigester investments for methane management, showcased a holistic approach towards environmental sustainability, clean energy, and economic growth. 

He led the creation of the first-ever climate action entrepreneurship curriculum in Africa, now established at Nasarawa State University in Nigeria and Ba Isago University in Botswana. 

This curriculum is designed to guide the youth in transforming their passions into climate action solutions, fostering a generation of ‘ClimatePreneurs’. 

His proven track record of innovative solutions and collaborative efforts promises a transformative journey towards a sustainable global 

Appointment dedicated to youth

Reacting after his appointment, Dr Munang said he was dedicating the appointment to young people across the globe whom he is working to inspire.

“This is not really about me but about inspiring young people to focus and hard work is important also for Cameroon to know we make them proud,” the new head UNEP Global Environment Monitoring Systems said.

About Dr Munang

The Cameroonian who is a native of Jikfuin in Belo, Boyo Division of the North West Region, holds a PhD in Environmental Change and Policy from the University of Nottingham, United Kingdom, UK.

He also completed the pioneering Executive Certificate in ‘Climate Change and Energy: Policy Making for the Long Term at Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, USA.

Before joining the United Nations, he worked as a Research Fellow at Trinity College, University of Dublin, and as a Lecturer at Nottingham University. 

He has participated in various research projects and published over 500 articles in international peer-reviewed journals and magazines. 

He is the author of the book – Making Africa Work through the Power of Innovative Volunteerism and has co-written chapters in publications on environment, climate, and development policy. Committed to empowering future leaders and change-makers.

Dr. Munang founded the Innovative Volunteerism mentorship programme, guiding young people to transform their passion into profit by tapping environmental action as a source of enterprise.

He is the 2016 winner of UNEP’s Baobab staff awards for Programme Innovation for enhancing efficiency and efficacy, with UNEP's work on EBA policy integration being up-scaled nationally and regionally and the prestigious “2023 Your Nottingham Alumni Award” from the University of Nottingham for exceptional excellence. 

He was recognised in 2023 as one of the Top 50 Global Thought Leaders in Sustainability.