Anita Kiki Gbeho of Ghana, appointed Special Representative of the Secretary-General and Head of UNMISS in April 2026, is the new African voice leading the UN’s efforts in South Sudan. Her extensive experience – spanning more than 25 years in political, humanitarian, and development affairs – guides her in this new role.
With more than 25 years of experience in peacebuilding, humanitarian action and development, Anita Kiki Gbeho has taken charge of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). Her career has taken her to Angola, Cambodia, Iraq, Namibia, Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan.
She intends to lead her mandate with a focus on partnership, support for the peace process, civilian protection and strengthening stability.
“I take on this responsibility with a clear objective: to lead a mission capable of responding to a rapidly changing and particularly challenging context, built on partnership and focused on effective support for the peace process, the protection of civilians and the strengthening of stability in South Sudan.”
Anita Gbeho, Head of UNMISS – Ghana
Since 2024, Anita Gbeho had served as Deputy Special Representative of the Secretary-General, Humanitarian Coordinator and Resident Coordinator in South Sudan. She previously held similar positions in Somalia and Darfur.
Against the backdrop of a deteriorating security and humanitarian situation, the new UNMISS chief believes that a political solution remains essential.
“The challenges facing South Sudan cannot be resolved through military means. A sustainable political path, based on inclusive dialogue, remains essential.”
Anita Gbeho, Head of UNMISS – Ghana
She succeeds South African Nicholas Haysom, whose commitment to peace was praised by the United Nations. Holding a master’s degree in international relations from the University of Ghana, Anita Gbeho will now draw on her experience to support stability and the peace process in South Sudan.
