Former Refugee Becomes UN Resident Coordinator in Pakistan

Islamabad, Mohamed Yahya, originally a child refugee from Somalia, has been appointed as the new United Nations Resident Coordinator in Pakistan. Yahya shared his experiences and aspirations on the podcast ‘Awake at Night’ with Melissa Fleming, where he discussed his personal history of displacement and his current role with the UN.

According to United Nations Pakistan, Yahya expressed deep connections with displaced communities, stemming from his own experiences as a refugee. During his previous role in Nigeria, he played a crucial role in aiding communities to return to their homes after displacement by the militant group Boko Haram. Now in Pakistan, Yahya aims to enhance the country’s development and manage its response to climate-induced crises, focusing on sustainable development goals and humanitarian efforts.

Yahya emphasized the United Nations’ commitment to fostering hope and improving global conditions, including addressing climate risks. He conveyed excitement about his new role in Pakistan, noting the significant presence and impact of the UN in the region. He looks forward to contributing to Pakistan’s development and supporting its people in facing various challenges.