Dr Barirega Akankwasah Appointed New NEMA ED, Tom Okurut Out

The Board of the National Environmental Management Authority (Nema) has appointed Dr Barirega Akankwasah the new executive director, replacing Tom Okurut whose contract expired recently.

Okurut has served as NRM ED since 2011, and according to the National Environment Act, 2019, the Executive Director can only serve for a period of fve years and is eligible for re- appointment for one more term.

The Nema Board chose Dr Akankwasah Barirega and line minister Sam Cheptoris approved his appointment.

Section 22(1) of the National Environment Act, 2019 empowers the Minister of Water and Environment to appoint the Executive Director of Nema on the recommendation of the Board.

And now, Nema has confirmed that Dr Barirega Akankwasah has gone through this whole process.

“Dr Akankwasah Barirega has been appointed as our new Executive Director. Appointment takes effect on September 1, 2021.
Welcome aboard Dr Barirega Akankwasah,” said Nema in a statement.

“Thank you very much for the warm welcome. Looking forward to contributing to the noble task of sustainable development and transfromation of our country through a green pathway,” said Dr Barirega Akankwasah in response.