12 August 2025, Asmara, Eritrea – The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has appointed Biniam Ghirmay, a 25-year-old Eritrean cycling champion and trailblazer, as its newest National Goodwill Ambassador. In this role, Mr. Ghirmay will advocate for climate action, youth empowerment, and the transformative power of sports in advancing national, regional, and global development.

Mr. Ghirmay, a professional cyclist currently riding for the Belgian team Intermarché-Wanty-Gobert Matériaux, has earned international acclaim for his achievements in major competitions, including the Tour de France. In 2024, he made history as the first Black African to win a stage of the Tour de France, securing two additional stage victories and claiming the green jersey as the overall points classification winner. His earlier triumph in 2022, winning Stage 10 of the Giro d’Italia, marked another historic milestone as the first Black African to win a stage in a Grand Tour. His continued success across European and African races has elevated Eritrea’s profile in professional cycling.

Mr. Ghirmay’s appointment was celebrated at a ceremony in Hakose, attended by H.E. Ambassador Zemede Tekle, Commissioner of Culture and Sports; the Minister of Environment and Agriculture; UN Heads of Agencies; and other distinguished guests.

In Eritrea, youth are leading innovative, community-driven climate initiatives supported by UNDP. The Climate Change Adaptation Programme in Water and Agriculture in the Anseba region empowers local communities—including young people—to build resilience against climate shocks. Through nature-based solutions such as hillside terracing, reforestation, and the construction of check dams, youth are actively restoring degraded landscapes and securing water sources for agriculture.

“Young people in Eritrea, like many across Africa, are making significant contributions to the global climate action agenda by creating inclusive, climate-resilient solutions,” said Biniam Ghirmay. “We must do all we can to limit the impacts of climate change, build community resilience, and ensure young people are at the forefront of climate adaptability.”

Eritrea’s participation in the Great Green Wall Initiative further highlights youth engagement in climate resilience. This regional partnership, which spans 11 countries including Eritrea, aims to combat desertification and promote sustainable land use. It emphasizes the creation of green jobs and the empowerment of youth as key implementers and beneficiaries.

“Biniam Ghirmay embodies the spirit of African youth —said Mr. Pa Lamin Beyai, UNDP Resident Representative. “His influence will be instrumental in advancing UNDP’s mission, particularly in mobilising youth and advocating for environmental sustainability. We are honoured to have him join us in this journey.”

This appointment reflects UNDP’s commitment to engaging young people as co-creators of sustainable development solutions. Mr. Ghirmay joins a growing network of young African Goodwill Ambassadors, including Nigerian musicians Patoranking (Africa Goodwill Ambassador) and Yemi Alade (Global Goodwill Ambassador), who are working with UNDP to promote inclusive and sustainable development across the continent and globally.

H.E. Ambassador Zemede Tekle, Commissioner of Culture and Sports, said, “I am deeply honored to see our professional athlete Biniam Ghirmay rightfully appointed as a Goodwill Ambassador for UNDP Eritrea, an inspiring achievement for Eritrean youth, Africans, and the global sports community.”

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For media enquiries and interviews, contact:

Asmara: Monica Modici, UNDP Eritrea Communications officer | monica.modici@undp.org
Addis Ababa: Ngele Ali, UNDP Regional Communications Advisor, Africa | ngele.ali@undp.org 
Belgium: Sarah Inghelbrecht, Intermarché-Wanty World Team, Communication Manager|  sin@wantyou.be

Notes to the editors:

UNDP appoints prominent individuals from diverse fields—such as sports, film, music, and literature—as Goodwill Ambassadors to spotlight critical global issues and mobilise support for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). These ambassadors use their platforms to raise awareness on poverty, climate change, gender equality, and human rights, helping to inspire action and amplify UNDP’s development philosophy. 

About UNDP:

UNDP is the leading United Nations organisation fighting to end the injustice of poverty, inequality, and climate change. Working with our broad network of experts and partners in 170 countries, we help nations build integrated, lasting solutions for people and the planet. Learn more at undp.org.