The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) is proud to announce that Baaba Maal and Inna Modja have been appointed Goodwill Ambassadors. Both have previously served as UNCCD land ambassadors, helping the Convention raise awareness of land degradation, desertification and drought among its fans around the world.
In this new designation, the duo will act as an honorary spokesperson, playing a crucial role in raising awareness and defending the objectives of the Convention among the youth, women, children and communities affected.
It is hoped that the new Goodwill Ambassadors will inspire the public and decision makers to take practical steps and conduct policies to achieve the Convention’s mission of promoting sustainable land management. They will also help advance efforts to reduce poverty and promote gender equality, particularly among climate-vulnerable and land-dependent populations.
UNCCD was created in 1994 in response to the global challenges of desertification, land degradation and drought. The Convention works with its 197 Parties to achieve land degradation neutrality by 2030, a global goal enshrined in the Sustainable Development Goals. Up to 40% of the world’s land is currently degraded, with disastrous consequences for our climate, biodiversity and livelihoods. Droughts have increased by 29% since 2000, due to both climate change and land degradation.
Ibrahim Thiaw, Deputy Secretary General and Executive Secretary of UNCCD, said: I am honoured that Baaba Maal and Inna Modja have agreed to take on the important role of UNCCD Goodwill Ambassadors. With their global influence and commitment to sustainability, these exceptional artists will play a crucial role in raising awareness of the importance of combating desertification, land degradation and drought.
“I am confident that their appointment will significantly strengthen our efforts to mitigate the current impacts of land degradation and advance the stewardship of the lands of tomorrow to provide food, water, a fair and inclusive shelter and economic opportunity for all.”
Baaba Maal, the Senegalese Grammy Award-winning singer who produced the music for Wakanda Forever, said: “I am proud to be a UNCCD Goodwill Ambassador, using my music and influence to fight desertification, land degradation and gender. inequality. By empowering women and ensuring equal opportunities, Join me in preserving our lands, supporting climate-vulnerable communities and empowering women to create a better world for all.
Inna Modja, the Malian singer, actress and activist from the Sahel, said: I am deeply honoured to serve as UNCCD’s goodwill ambassador. As a woman, artist and activist for climate and social justice, I believe it is essential to empower women and youth and promote gender equality in the fight against desertification and land degradation. Together, we can create a better and sustainable future.”
