Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 24 years of experience in Malawi, the expert is a seasoned development practitioner specializing in environment, food security, and rural development. With a background in managing projects for prominent organizations such as DANIDA, the World Food Programme, and Save the Children, the expert has honed skills in project management, partnership development, and monitoring of development activities. Career highlights include leading initiatives in food security, agribusiness, and environmental management. Responsibilities have included roles as Project Manager and National Coordinator, coordinating national-level environmental assessments and leading USAID-funded food security programs.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has extensive experience collaborating with international donors such as the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and DANIDA. This involvement has encompassed project implementation, technical assistance, and policy advocacy in sectors like food security, livelihoods, and environmental management. The work was primarily national in scope, focusing on Malawi, and included leading USAID-funded food security programs and coordinating state of environment production processes for DANIDA.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a comprehensive background, the expert has worked across key sectors such as agriculture and rural development, environment and climate, food systems and livelihoods, and disaster reduction and humanitarian relief. Previously held roles include Project Manager, National Coordinator, and Deputy Food Security Manager, where leadership in project implementation and strategic planning was demonstrated. The expert's interdisciplinary expertise involves integrating environmental management with agribusiness and food security initiatives. The geographic scope of work is primarily centered on Malawi, where both national and regional projects have been successfully managed. Extensive experience in Southern Africa has provided a deep understanding of local governance, cultural dynamics, and regional development challenges.

Languages and education

The expert possesses native-level proficiency in English, demonstrating full professional capabilities in both written and spoken contexts, which supports work in international and multilingual environments. Additionally, they have native fluency in Chichewa, enhancing effectiveness in local settings. These language skills facilitate seamless communication in diverse professional scenarios, including collaboration with international teams. The expert holds a Master's degree in Environment from the University of Cambridge, UK, and a Bachelor's degree and a Diploma in Agriculture and Rural Development from the University of Malawi, Bunda College of Agriculture, Malawi. These educational qualifications underpin expertise in environmental and agricultural development sectors.