Cheick Sidi Diarra  Cheick Sidi Diarra (born 31 May 1957, in Kayes) previously served as United Nations Special Adviser on Africa and High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (OSAA/OHRLLS). He was appointed to the position by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon in January 2008. Since 1982, he has been a negotiator on African integration and development issues. He has played a role in United Nations economic and development matters. He was a contributor to the intergovernmental consultation process that led to the strengthening of the Economic and Social Council. He has also been an advocate for the cause of Africa, the least developed countries and landlocked developing countries. Diarra holds a master's degree in international public law and international relations from Dakar University in Senegal.