Conservation enthusiast Dr Akankwasah Barirega has been appointed the new Executive Director for the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA).
Dr. Akankwasah replaces Dr. Tom Okurut who served for ten years at the helm of NEMA since July 1, 2011.
“Following successful completion of a selection process that commenced in October 2020, and upon recommendation from the NEMA board of directors; the Minister for Environment Hon. Sam Cheptoris has appointed Dr. Akankwasah Barirega as Executive Director of the National Environment Management Authority effective September 1, 2021, for a period of five (5) years,” a statement from Nema says.
Section 22 of the National Environment Act states that the Executive Director shall serve for a period of five years and is eligible for appointment for only one more term
Before his appointment as NEMA ED, Dr. Akankwasah served in the Ministry of Tourism Wildlife and Antiquities in several positions since 2008; including as Assistant Commissioner for Wildlife and Conservation; Principal Wildlife Officer, and Senior Wildlife Officer.
Energy Ministry Orders UEDCL Board to Investigate Top Management Over Performance GapsDr. Akankwasah has a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Environment and Natural Resource Management, a Master of Science, and a Bachelors degree in Environment and Natural Resource Management; and brings with him a wealth of experience in biodiversity and conservation to NEMA.
Key on Dr. AKanwasah’s agenda is to oversee the restructuring process in line with the Cabinet directive of February 22, 2021, to rationalize Government Agencies, Commissions and Authorities. As the accounting officer, he will be responsible for the Authority’s day-to-day administration and operations, resource mobilization, and strategic planning. He will ensure regional and international cooperation through coordination and implementation of bi-lateral and multi-lateral agreements.
Dr. Akankwasah will also support the NEMA Board in its operations as well as the Policy Committee on Environment to ensure that NEMA performs its mandate as the principal agency in Uganda responsible for the management of the environment
