United Nations has appointed gospel singer Mercy Masika as its Goodwill Ambassador for Kenya.
Prior to her appointment, Masika served as UNHCR’s High Profile Supporter, championing its LuQuLuQu campaign to change the narrative of the African refugee.
Since her involvement with the LuQuLuQu campaign, Masika has advocated for and supported UNHCR’s work in protecting people forced to flee.
This has included supporting public engagement and fundraising campaigns such as the launch of the LuQuLuQu campaign in Kenya, the Step for Safety public charity walks held across Africa, and performing at the first ever TEDX event held in a refugee camp – TEDxKakumaCamp.
Last December, Masika participated in UNHCR’s Christmas campaign calling on public support for refugees across Africa.
Washington D.C
Masika also represented UNHCR internationally at the National Prayer Breakfast in the Washington, D.C., which was attended by the UN President María Fernanda and other high level government officials.
“Through my involvement with the LuQuLuQu campaign, I have had the opportunity to meet with people who have been forced to flee and who, despite having lost everything, show unwavering resilience to overcome their circumstances to rebuild their lives,” said Masika.
Masika takes on her role as a Goodwill Ambassador during a time when the world is facing unprecedented forced displacements.
Kenya currently hosts close to 480,000 refugees and asylum seekers with 78 per cent of them being women and children.
