Dr. Julitta Elizabeth Onabanjo, a global health expert with over 24 years of experience, has been appointed as the new UNFPA Country Representative for Malaysia. Her extensive background in program management, development, advocacy, and leadership at UNFPA will continue to uphold and drive UNFPA’s commitments & efforts in Malaysia.
Dr. Julitta, a national of the United States and Nigeria, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion for improving sexual and reproductive health and rights worldwide. She joined UNFPA in 1995 and has held various positions, including serving as the Regional Director for East and Southern Africa, where her leadership significantly contributed to resource mobilisation efforts and partnership development in over 23 countries.
As the previous Director of the Technical Division at UNFPA Headquarters, Dr. Julitta played a pivotal role in enhancing the organisation's initiatives across the globe. She was a strong advocate for integrating menstrual health into broader sexual and reproductive health policies, recognizing it as a critical component of women's health and dignity.
Dr. Julitta holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from the University of London and a Medical Doctor degree from the University of Zambia, in addition to a Master’s Degree in Public Health from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.
Dr. Julitta’s appointment underscores UNFPA's continuous commitment to the people and government of Malaysia towards advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights, empowering women and youth, and ensuring that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled.
