Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 28 years of experience, the expert is a seasoned agricultural economist specializing in integrated program management. Key skills include project management, micro-enterprise development, and agricultural value chain development. Career highlights include leading local and international initiatives, notably enhancing the mango value chain in Makueni County and strategic planning for AFRACA. Previously held roles such as Marketing Manager and Programmes Coordinator have involved successfully mobilizing resources, developing strategic partnerships, and coordinating large-scale agricultural projects, achieving significant market linkages and capacity building outcomes.

Project experience and donor exposure

Worked across diverse projects involving collaboration with international donors such as the European Union and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD). Involvement has included project evaluations, strategic planning, and capacity building, particularly in the areas of agriculture and microfinance. Responsibilities have included working on regional and national projects, including the Productive Asset Recovery and Institutional Strengthening project in South Sudan and strategic initiatives with AFRACA across Africa. These projects have primarily focused on agriculture, rural development, and financial inclusion.

Sectors and geographic focus

The expert has worked extensively across sectors such as rural development, food security, micro-finance, agriculture, and livestock production and health. Background includes positions at various organizations where roles have included business development, program coordination, and marketing management. Responsibilities have included strategic planning, resource mobilization, and market linkage development. A strong interdisciplinary knowledge base is evident, particularly in integrating project management with agricultural value chain development. Geographic experience is primarily in Kenya, with regional engagements across Africa, enhancing agricultural markets and fostering organizational partnerships. Extensive geographic experience includes significant involvement in regional development projects in Makueni County and work in South Sudan for program evaluations. Participation in international workshops and conferences has taken place across Africa, including Tanzania, South Africa, Ethiopia, Ghana, Rwanda, Uganda, and Zambia, providing a deep understanding of local governance, cultural dynamics, and regional development issues.

Languages and education

With a background in language proficiency, the expert is fluent in English, one of the UN official languages, and Swahili. These language skills have been utilized extensively in professional roles, facilitating communication in multilingual teams and enhancing collaboration in international and local projects. Proficiency in English has supported work in diverse settings, including project management and strategic partnerships within international development contexts. Educational background includes a Master of Science in Agricultural and Applied Economics with a focus on Agribusiness Management. Additionally, a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership was earned from Eastern University, USA, completed between 2004 and 2007. A Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics was obtained from Egerton University, Kenya. These academic achievements provide a solid foundation in both economic and leadership principles, particularly in the context of agriculture and organizational development.