Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 26 years of experience in agriculture , agribusiness and value chain development, deelopment finance and  agrifinance, the expert specializes in project management, value chain development, and financial management, resouce mobilization, evaluation of projects and agriculture finance. Career highlights include managing and implementing projects funded by international donors such as the EU, European Investment Bank (EIB)  and World Bank. Responsibilities have included designing inclusive business models, facilitating market linkages,  supporting  access to finance and capacity building for SMEs and cooperatives. Accomplishments include enhancing agricultural value chains and supporting MSMEs in Southern Africa. Previously held roles such as Agri-food Value Chain Expert and Agribusiness Specialist, demonstrating strong organizational and communication skills.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors including the EU, World Bank, USAID, DfID, GIZ, and DANIDA. Worked across diverse projects involving project implementation, technical assistance, evaluations, and capacity building in agriculture development, agribusiness, and rural development. The geographic scope of work spans national and regional levels, focusing on value chain development and SME support in Southern and Eastern Africa, particularly in Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania.

Sectors and geographic focus

With a background in key sectors such as agriculture, rural development, food security, micro-finance, and SME development, the expert has held roles like Agri-food Value Chain Expert and Agribusiness Specialist. Responsibilities have included project management, value chain development, and capacity building. The expert possesses interdisciplinary knowledge in areas like agriculture finance and public-private partnerships. The work has primarily focused on Southern Africa, with significant contributions to regional and country-specific initiatives in Malawi, Zambia, and Tanzania. The expert has demonstrated deep familiarity with local governance, cultural dynamics, and regional development issues through long-term assignments and recurring involvement in these countries.

Languages and education

The expert is fluent in English, Chichewa, and Tumbuka, utilizing these languages in professional settings across Southern Africa. They have achieved a C2 level in English and Chichewa, indicating advanced proficiency. Additionally, the expert has a C1 reading proficiency in Swahili, with basic speaking and writing skills. These language competences have been applied in multilingual teams and in-country work, facilitating effective communication in diverse cultural and professional environments. The expert holds an MSc in Agriculture (Development Training and Education) from the University of Wolverhampton, United Kingdom, obtained between 2001 and 2003. Additionally, they earned a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Malawi, completed from 1990 to 1995. Their educational background is focused on agriculture and development training.