Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 35 years of experience in macroeconomics, public finance, and urban development, the expert has provided consultancy services for both local and international projects. Specializing in public sector economics, budgeting, and financial systems, the expert has led evaluations and policy development initiatives, contributing significantly to donor-funded research and capacity-building projects. With excellent writing and communication skills, demonstrated through numerous publications and effective leadership in advisory roles, the expert's experience spans academia and consultancy, with significant involvement in strategic planning and fiscal policy development.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors such as the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS), the African Development Bank, the European Commission, and USAID. Responsibilities have included project evaluations, technical assistance, and capacity building in sectors like governance, fiscal policy, and urban development. The projects have been both national and regional in scope, with work conducted in countries including South Africa, Kenya, Eswatini, and Mozambique. The expert's involvement in these initiatives has facilitated the development of comprehensive frameworks and guidelines, enhancing the effectiveness of international development efforts.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across key sectors including education, macroeconomics, public finance, urban development, and decentralization, the expert has held roles such as senior urban economist, public finance management evaluator, and technical advisor. Their interdisciplinary knowledge includes policy development, strategic planning, and fiscal policy, often integrating aspects like digitalization in governance. The expert's work has been both regional and country-specific, primarily in Southern Africa, where they have contributed to both local and international initiatives. The expert has extensive geographic experience in Southern Africa, with significant work conducted in South Africa, Eswatini, Kenya, Lesotho, and Mozambique. They possess a deep familiarity with local governance and regional development issues, particularly in the context of public finance and urban development. Their long-term involvement in South Africa includes ongoing projects since 1986, showcasing a strong understanding of the country's economic and policy landscape. The expert's work in these regions has often involved collaboration with both local and international stakeholders.

Languages and education

With a background in economics, the expert is a native English speaker and has excellent proficiency in Afrikaans. They possess good proficiency in German and moderate proficiency in Spanish. These language skills have been utilized in various professional contexts, including in-country work and participation in multilingual teams. The expert has also engaged in translation-related tasks, such as compiling reports from presentations delivered in Arabic, French, and English. The expert holds a Master's Degree in Economics and a Bachelor's Degree in Economics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Additionally, they earned an Honours in Economics from the University of South Africa. The expert also obtained a Higher Diploma in Education from the University of KwaZulu-Natal, further solidifying their academic foundation in economics and education.