Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 27 years of experience, the expert specializes in project planning, management, and monitoring and evaluation within the sectors of food security, natural resources management, and livelihoods programs. Career highlights include leading significant local and international initiatives, such as the USAID-funded Kulera Biodiversity Project. Responsibilities have encompassed strategic direction, stakeholder partnerships, and supervising field staff. The expert has achieved quantifiable improvements in community livelihoods and environmental conservation, notably through establishing the Joint Emergency Food Aid Program in Malawi and developing the Kulera REDD+ Landscape Project.

Project experience and donor exposure

With a background in international development, the expert has collaborated with major donors like USAID and the Royal Norwegian Government. This involvement includes working on the USAID-funded Kulera Biodiversity Project and the FAO's Enhancing Food Security and Developing Sustainable Rural Livelihoods Project. These collaborations have focused on project implementation, strategic guidance, and capacity building in sectors such as food security, natural resources management, and livelihoods programs. The projects were primarily conducted in Malawi, aiming to improve livelihoods and manage natural resources sustainably.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across diverse projects involving agriculture, food security, natural resources management, and rural development. Previously held roles have included project management, strategic leadership, and monitoring and evaluation. The expert has led initiatives like the Kulera Biodiversity Project and the Joint Emergency Food Aid Program in Malawi. Cross-cutting expertise includes integrating participatory methods and capacity building in rural development. The geographic scope of work primarily covers Malawi, with additional experience in Mozambique, Tanzania, and Zambia, emphasizing regional development and sustainable practices. This regional involvement has fostered a deep understanding of local governance, cultural dynamics, and regional development challenges, particularly in agriculture and natural resources management.

Languages and education

With a background in Agricultural Economics, the expert holds an M.Sc. from Oklahoma State University, USA, achieved in 1997 with a GPA of 3.81. The coursework included advanced studies in economics, environmental policy, and agricultural policy. Additionally, the expert obtained a B.Sc. in Agriculture, with a focus on Rural Development, from the University of Malawi, Bunda College of Agriculture, in 1991, and a Diploma in Agriculture from the same institution in 1989. In terms of language competences, the expert is fluent in English, which has been utilized extensively in professional settings, including international project management and collaboration with multilingual teams. Additionally, the expert has fair proficiency in French, enhancing communication in diverse environments. These language skills have supported the expert's roles in international development projects and interactions with various stakeholders across different countries.