Stephen Nkem Asek is a highly accomplished and experienced professional in the field of development and humanitarian work. With over 17 years of dedicated service, Mr. Asek has made significant contributions to peacebuilding, conflict analysis, and social development in various countries, including Cameroon, Ethiopia, Sudan, and Kenya.
As a Country Director, Mr. Asek has demonstrated exceptional leadership skills and expertise in senior leadership roles. He has successfully led teams in peace and conflict analysis, contract and partnership development, and the delivery of peacebuilding programs. His extensive experience in fragile and conflict-affected settings has enabled him to develop an in-depth understanding of the complexities and challenges associated with promoting stability and positive change.
Mr. Asek’s expertise extends to areas such as financial oversight and management, development of standard operating procedures (SOPs), and mediation. He has played a pivotal role in leading social behavioral change interventions and providing development assistance in challenging environments. His work has focused on creating sustainable solutions and promoting social cohesion in communities affected by conflicts.
Recognized for his exceptional skills and knowledge, Mr. Asek has been vetted as an Expert on multiple UNDP Expert Deployment Rosters, including Conflict Prevention, Peacebuilding & Conflict Sensitivity/Analysis, DDR, Community Security & Social Cohesion, Prevention of Violent Extremism & CVE, and Conflict Prevention & Peacebuilding: Climate and Security Risk. He has also been recognized as a Vetted Expert for the Geneva Center for Security Sector Governance Sub-Saharan African Program.
Mr. Asek’s educational background is equally impressive. He holds an MSc (Merit) in Education for Sustainability, a BSc (Hons) in Political Science, and a Diploma in Resilient Markets: Market Systems Development for Fragile and Conflict-Affected Settings (FCAS). He has pursued further studies in conflict resolution, nonviolent conflict, project management, and various topics related to peace and security.
Throughout his career, Mr. Asek has been actively engaged with international organizations and institutions. He has served as a member of the United Nations Global Mediation Panel, mediating work-related disputes and facilitating dialogue to reach mutually acceptable solutions. Additionally, he has conducted workshops and training sessions on conflict resolution and negotiation techniques for UN staff and other stakeholders, enhancing the overall conflict-resolution capacity within the UN.
Mr. Asek’s dedication to promoting peace and understanding is further evident in his role as a Joint UN Peace and Conflict Analyst for the World Food Program (WFP) Ethiopia-Country Office. In this capacity, he has supported the UN in gaining a deeper understanding of conflict dynamics, analyzing stakeholder engagements, and identifying strategies for prevention, social cohesion, and peacebuilding.
Beyond his professional achievements, Mr. Asek is committed to continuous learning and has participated in numerous training programs, including those offered by the United Nations and esteemed academic institutions. He holds certifications in dialogue and mediation, ethics training, prevention of sexual harassment and abuse, and combating transnational organized crime and illicit trade.
Stephen Nkem Asek’s remarkable achievements, expertise, and dedication to promoting peace and development have earned him recognition and respect in his field. His ability to navigate complex situations, develop innovative solutions, and foster collaboration makes him a valuable asset in addressing the challenges faced by communities affected by conflicts.