By Horn Africa News
The Head of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS), Dr. Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, has passed away at the age of 61. According to UN sources, she died yesterday, leaving behind a distinguished legacy of over three decades of public service, diplomacy, and humanitarian work.
Dr. Kacyira was appointed to lead UNSOS by UN Secretary-General António Guterres in February 2023, succeeding Australian diplomat Lisa Filipetto. In her role, she was responsible for providing logistical and operational support to the African Union Mission in Somalia and the broader UN presence in the country.
With more than 30 years of professional experience, Dr. Kacyira brought an extensive background in diplomacy, political leadership, humanitarian assistance, and development work at local, national, and international levels.
Before taking up her Somalia post, she served as Rwanda’s High Commissioner to Ghana, as well as non-resident ambassador to Benin, Togo, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire, and Liberia. Earlier in her career, she was Governor of Rwanda’s Eastern Province, Mayor of Kigali City, and a Member of Parliament.
From 2011 to 2018, Dr. Kacyira served as the Deputy Executive Director of UN-Habitat, where she played a central role in advancing sustainable urban development initiatives.
She also had a strong background in agriculture and humanitarian issues, having worked with Rwanda’s Ministry of Agriculture, Oxfam, and Care International.
Born in Rwanda, Dr. Kacyira held a Master’s degree in Veterinary Science in Animal Production and Economics from James Cook University in Australia, as well as a Bachelor’s degree in Veterinary Medicine from Makerere University in Uganda.
The UN and Somali government officials are expected to issue official tributes in recognition of her dedication and service. Colleagues remember her as a passionate leader, committed to peacebuilding and sustainable development in fragile contexts.
