Key skills and expertise

Bringing over 25 years of experience, the expert specializes in value chains and market systems development, with more than 15 years dedicated to social work and economic development. They have led both international and local projects, significantly enhancing rural livelihoods and market access across Sub-Saharan Africa. Career highlights include facilitating business transactions worth USD 18 million and boosting rural youth incomes. Previously held roles such as Deputy Team Leader involved managing project strategies, stakeholder relationships, and team performance. Technical skills encompass computer literacy and expertise in facilitation, training, and mentoring.

Project experience and donor exposure

With a background in collaborating with prominent international donors, the expert has worked with organizations such as USAID, SIDA, GIZ, DfiD, the Swedish Development Agency, the Swiss Development Agency, and the World Bank. Their involvement has included project implementation, technical assistance, and capacity building, primarily in rural economic development, market systems, and agriculture. These projects have been regional and sector-specific, focusing on connecting farmers to markets and enhancing access to financing and technologies. The expert's work has been concentrated in Sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Sectors and geographic focus

Worked across diverse sectors including rural development, social development, agriculture, marketing, and program and resource management. Responsibilities have included roles such as Deputy Team Leader and Senior Consultant, focusing on value chain development and economic growth. The expert possesses cross-cutting expertise in integrating digital technologies in agriculture and improving infrastructure for rural development. The geographic scope of their work is primarily regional, covering Sub-Saharan Africa, with significant contributions in Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. They have successfully collaborated with a wide array of stakeholders to implement sustainable development initiatives.

Languages and education

Fluent in English, Portuguese, and Shona, the expert has utilized these language skills in various professional contexts, including in-country work across Mozambique, Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe, as well as in multilingual teams on international development projects. Their educational background includes a Doctorate in Rural Economic Development from Zimbabwe Open University, a Master of Business Administration from Midlands State University, and a Bachelor of Business Administration from Azaliah University. The academic focus has been primarily in Business Administration, with a specialization in rural economic development.