Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 40 years of experience in agriculture, the expert specializes in program management, food security, and natural resources management. Key skills include designing and evaluating rural development programs, assessing small-scale irrigation schemes, and conducting environmental impact assessments. Career highlights include leading international initiatives with organizations like the World Bank and EU, providing technical support and capacity building. Responsibilities have included chairing professional networks and leading evaluations and strategic planning for major development projects across Africa and Afghanistan, resulting in enhanced program effectiveness and stakeholder capacity.

Project experience and donor exposure

The expert has collaborated with international donors such as the World Bank, EU, IFAD, CIDA, and FAO, providing technical assistance, capacity building, and conducting evaluations. The cooperation involved sectoral areas like agriculture, food security, and natural resources management. The projects were both national and regional in scope, covering countries including Ethiopia, Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Nigeria, Rwanda, and Malawi. The expert's involvement included project implementation, strategic guidance, and development of operational manuals, contributing to the effective management of donor-funded programs.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across diverse projects involving agriculture, rural development, and natural resources management sectors. Previously held roles such as consultant, project manager, and technical advisor, focusing on program management, food security, and irrigation engineering. The expert's interdisciplinary knowledge encompasses integrated watershed management and rural infrastructure development. The geographic scope of work has been regional, with significant projects across East Africa and beyond, addressing both local and international development challenges.

Background includes extensive geographic experience across Ethiopia, Rwanda, Uganda, Tanzania, Nigeria, Kenya, Malawi, and Afghanistan. With a deep familiarity with local governance and cultural dynamics, the expert has frequently engaged in long-term assignments and region-specific projects. This includes substantial involvement in East Africa, where the expert has contributed to numerous development initiatives, leveraging expertise in agricultural and natural resources management to address regional development issues effectively.

Languages and education

With a background in multilingual environments, the expert is fluent in English, Amharic, and Oromifa, using these languages effectively in professional contexts, including in-country work and collaboration with multilingual teams. The expert has basic proficiency in Swahili, which supports communication in regional projects across East Africa. These language skills facilitate effective interaction and coordination in diverse international development settings.

The expert holds an M.Sc. in Agricultural and Irrigation Engineering from Utah State University, USA, obtained in 1990. Additionally, the expert earned a B.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering from Addis Ababa University, Alamaya Agricultural College, Ethiopia, completed in 1984. These academic credentials provide a strong foundation in the field of agricultural engineering.