MOGADISHU, Aug. 13 (Xinhua) -- Aisa Kirabo Kacyira, head of the United Nations Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS) and assistant secretary-general, passed away on Tuesday night following an extended illness.
UNSOS said Kacyira led the office with exemplary dedication and vision, drawing on over three decades of distinguished service in diplomacy, governance, and humanitarian affairs to support peace and stability in Somalia.
"We honor her legacy of service and compassion, and we will carry forward her vision in support of Somalia," UNSOS said in a statement issued in the Somali capital of Mogadishu on Tuesday night.
The seasoned Rwandan diplomat and former mayor of Kigali (the capital of Rwanda) was appointed UNSOS chief by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in February 2023, succeeding Lisa Filipetto of Australia.
UNSOS is mandated to provide logistical support to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) and the Somali Security Forces in joint or coordinated operations with AUSSOM to restore peace and security in the East African country.
Kacyira's career spanned senior roles in governance and international service, and she is widely respected for her integrity, inclusive leadership, and commitment to multilateral dialogue, UNSOS said.
"We extend our sincere condolences to her loved ones, the UN family, AUSSOM, Somali and international partners, and colleagues around the world. We honor her legacy of service and compassion, and we will carry forward her vision in support of Somalia. May her soul rest in eternal peace," the UN mission said.
In his condolence message, Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud described Kacyira as a steadfast leader whose dedication made a lasting contribution to Somalia's stability and prosperity.
He extended heartfelt sympathy to Kacyira's family, as well as to the people and the government of Rwanda.
Kacyira held several positions in development and humanitarian assistance, including deputy executive director of the UN Human Settlements Program from 2011 to 2018. ■