Advisory Role

The Under-Secretary-General provides the Secretary-General with strategic advice on emerging and cross-cutting issues impacting Africa and United Nations coordination and coherence in its work in Africa, and undertakes special assignments related to Africa at the discretion of the Secretary-General.

The Office of the Special Adviser on Africa has a distinct mandate and a unique position within the United Nations system. It is strategically placed to serve as a key convener of the United Nations system and assist the Secretary-General in ensuring coordination and coherence in the Organization’s substantial engagement in Africa. It also plays the vital role of linking the United Nations leadership, Member States and other key stakeholders, including civil society, academia and policy experts, to help mobilize the United Nations system and the broader international community around the transformative vision for Africa articulated in the 2030 Agenda and Agenda 2063 of the African Union.

In carrying out its advisory functions, OSAA conducts research and develops foresight, policy and data analysis. The Office guides the preparation of Africa-related reports and inputs, initiates reports and produces policy analyses and advice on critical issues affecting Africa. OSAA also support the participation of African Member States in United Nations’ bodies and contributes to strengthening intergovernmental processes by amplifying the perspectives of African countries.