CIFOR has appointed Alvaro Luna Terrazas as the Coordinator for CIFOR's Regional Office in Belem, Brazil, commencing 3 May 2004. Alvaro's appointment marks a new approach to the South America Regional Coordinator position. Whereas previously the coordinator undertook both management and research, Alvaro's primary focus will be coordinating CIFOR's strategic priorities and opportunities in South America. This follows Cesar Sabogal's decision to step down from the position and concentrate on his much preferred area of endeavour, science and forest research.

Alvaro joins CIFOR from IUCN , where he was the Regional Forest Conservation Programme Coordinator in Quito, Ecuador and the Regional Scientific Adviser for South America. His considerable forestry experience also includes positions with Conservation International, UNDP, the German Development Service, GTZ and the Bolivian Forests Service. Alvaro's international background includes assignments in Brazil, Bolivia, Lesotho and Ecuador and he brings to CIFOR considerable experience in research coordination and mobilizing funds with a variety of donors.

Alvaro holds a Masters degree from the Department of Forestry Sciences in Tropical and Sub-tropical Areas - Universitat Gottingen.

CIFOR is pleased to welcome Alvaro and his wife, Mariette to CIFOR.

CIFOR also takes this opportunity to express its sincere thanks to Cesar Sabogal's hard work and dedication in Belem over many years. Cesar's commitment to CIFOR's important forest research in Brazil has been exemplary and lays a firm foundation for Alvaro's impending arrival.