Key skills and expertise

With 32 years of experience in agriculture and rural development, the expert specializes in sustainable production systems under harsh environments and the use of low-quality water in agriculture. Previously held roles such as Executive Director at MENA NWC involved leading initiatives focused on strategic goals, fundraising, and stakeholder engagement. Responsibilities have included contributing to water sector strategies and SDG projects in the MENA region as a consultant for the World Bank. The expert has managed significant research projects, developed partnerships, and contributed to international conferences, showcasing leadership in technical and management capacity development.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors including the World Bank and USAID. In their role as a consultant for the World Bank, they supported activities related to the Red-Dead Phase 1 Project and reviewed SDG implementation projects in the MENA region. The expert also worked with USAID on developing real-time monitoring research projects across Jordan, Tunisia, UAE, Oman, and Yemen to enhance irrigation management practices. These initiatives focused on water resource management and sustainable agriculture, conducted at both regional and national levels.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked extensively in the agriculture and rural development sectors, focusing on sustainable production systems and water resource management. Background includes positions such as Executive Director at MENA NWC and Consultant for the World Bank, emphasizing strategic development and stakeholder engagement. Their interdisciplinary expertise includes integrating environmental management with agricultural practices, particularly in saline and arid environments. Worked across diverse projects involving regional and country-specific initiatives in the Middle East, North Africa, and Australia, reflecting a broad geographic scope and cross-cutting sectoral knowledge.

The expert has extensive geographic experience across the Middle East, North Africa, and Australia. They have worked in Jordan, UAE, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Australia, demonstrating a deep understanding of regional development issues, particularly in water resource management and sustainable agriculture. Their roles have involved both national and regional projects, reflecting significant expertise in local governance and cultural dynamics within these areas.

Languages and education

The expert possesses native-level command of English, demonstrating mother tongue proficiency in speaking and native or bilingual proficiency in writing. This strong linguistic capability supports extensive work in international and multilingual environments, enabling effective communication and collaboration across diverse teams and projects.

The expert holds a PhD from the School of Plant Biology at the University of Western Australia, Australia. They have a Master (Research) degree in Bio-Remediation from the University of Sydney, Australia. Additionally, the expert earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Sciences from The University of Jordan, Jordan, with a focus on plant production.