Akiko Yamamoto

Akiko Yamamoto is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in environmental management and policy. Currently serving as the Regional Team Leader for the Asia and Pacific region at UNDP since July 2003, Akiko oversees the Nature, Climate, Energy and Waste Team, providing integrated policy advisory services and programming support to 36 countries, managing a portfolio of projects valued over USD 1 billion. Previously, Akiko worked as a Regional Programme Specialist focusing on Water and Oceans in Africa, where significant funding was mobilized for climate-related projects. Early career highlights include roles as a Programme Officer in the Environment Unit and a Liaison Assistant for UNDP, alongside technical advisory work at Namibia's Ministry of Environment and Tourism and consultancy with the World Bank. Academic qualifications include a Ph.D. and a Master's in Environmental Management and Engineering from The Johns Hopkins University, complemented by a Bachelor's in Civil Engineering from Tohoku University.