(NAIROBI) – South Sudan’s Ambassador to Kenya, Anthony Louis Kon, has formally presented his credentials to Ms. Zainab Hawa Bangura, Director General of the United Nations Office at Nairobi (UNON). The ceremony took place on 27 August 2025.
Through this accreditation, the Ambassador officially assumes the role of South Sudan’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN Habitat). Both agencies are headquartered in Nairobi and play a central role in environmental governance and sustainable urban development at the global level.
In his remarks during the event, Kon reaffirmed South Sudan’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and constructive engagement with the international community. He underlined the country’s interest in building stronger partnerships with UN institutions to support peace, sustainability and development.
Director General Bangura welcomed the Ambassador and expressed her readiness to strengthen collaboration with South Sudan, noting that UNEP and UN-Habitat remain committed to supporting countries facing challenges in environmental management, sustainable housing and urban development.
The Embassy of South Sudan in Nairobi stated that it looks forward to enhanced cooperation with UNON, UNEP and UN Habitat.
The move comes as the country seeks to consolidate international partnerships, attract investment and engage in multilateral dialogue at a time when global issues such as climate change, rapid urbanisation and sustainable development are increasingly interconnected with domestic growth.
For the business sector, the accreditation carries potential long term economic benefits. Stronger engagement with UNEP and UN Habitat may open doors to technical support, international funding and green investment opportunities in areas such as renewable energy, waste management, housing and infrastructure.
This could help South Sudan not only address pressing urban and environmental challenges but also position itself as an emerging destination for sustainable development initiatives in the region.
Business Opportunities Linked to UNEP and UN Habitat Cooperation
| Sector | Potential Opportunities for South Sudan | Possible Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Renewable Energy | Solar power projects, off-grid solutions, hydropower partnerships | Improved energy access, lower costs for businesses |
| Green Housing | Affordable and sustainable housing developments | Job creation, better living conditions in urban centres |
| Waste Management | Recycling, waste to energy projects, public-private partnerships | Cleaner cities, investment opportunities for local firms |
| Urban Planning | Smart city models, climate resilient infrastructure | Attracts investors, improves transport and services |
| Environmental Services | Forestry conservation, water resource management, eco-tourism | Protects resources, supports long-term economic growth |
