Hosea Machuki is the Chief Executive Officer of FPEAK. Hosea has over 22 years’ experience in various fields, including in agricultural research, horticulture, natural resources management, biodiversity conservation, food security, irrigation technology, agronomy, agricultural extension and value chains development. He has extensive knowledge and experience in organizational management and administration. Previously, he has worked at the Ministry of Agriculture and for NGOs namely; Self Help Africa, Solidaridad Network and Rainforest Alliance. He has also served as a consultant for many international organizations. He has vast experience working with private sector players both in Kenya and within the East and Southern Africa region. He holds an MSc in Agricultural Extension from Egerton University and a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi.
International Conference on Contract Farming – ICCF
12 - 13 November 2024 | Nairobi, Kenya - The Edge Convention Centre
Strategic Partners
Speakers
Njieforti Princewill
Njieforti Princewill stands as a beacon of innovation and leadership in the realm of sustainable agriculture, with an impressive track record as an award-winning Sustainable Agriculturalist, Trainer, and Public Speaker. For the past five years, he has been at the helm of Sustain Afric a Non-Governmental Organization dedicated to training and empowering farmers, with a special focus on nurturing the talents of youths and women in sustainable agricultural practices.
In his role as a Sustainable Agriculturalist, Princewill has been a driving force behind the adoption of eco-friendly and sustainable farming methods. His expertise, coupled with a passion for environmental stewardship, has led to transformative changes in the agricultural landscape, impacting communities in Cameroon, Nigeria, and beyond.
As a dedicated Trainer, Princewill has been instrumental in developing and implementing programs that equip farmers with the skills needed to embrace sustainable agricultural practices. Through his training initiatives, he has empowered a diverse range of individuals, particularly youths and women, fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious farmers.
Beyond his work with Sustain Afric, Princewill has extended his influence by mentoring over 50 Agribusiness young leaders across Cameroon, Ghana, and beyond. His mentorship program seeks to cultivate leadership and entrepreneurship skills, empowering the next wave of agricultural innovators to drive positive change in their communities.
A charismatic and engaging Public Speaker, Princewill shares his insights on sustainable agriculture with diverse audiences. His advocacy not only educates but also inspires others to actively participate in building a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future.
Njieforti Princewill’s five-year leadership of Sustain Afric and his impactful mentorship efforts underscore his commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and fostering the growth of a new generation of agribusiness leaders across Africa.
He was the EVWA Changemaker 2023 in his work in empowering widows in Tiko, Subdivision on Sustainable Snail Farming. He was awarded the ideal sustainable Agriculturalist in Cameroon in 2023.
Recognized as EVWA Changemaker 2023 by the Ban Ki-Moon Center for Global Citizens.
His aspirations to to empower more than 10,000 farmers on Sustainable farming practices by 2030.
Princewill loves nature and believes that we have to nurture it.
Njieforti Princewill
Chief Executive Officer, Sustain Afric
Njieforti Princewill
Njieforti Princewill stands as a beacon of innovation and leadership in the realm of sustainable agriculture, with an impressive track record as an award-winning Sustainable Agriculturalist, Trainer, and Public Speaker. For the past five years, he has been at the helm of Sustain Afric a Non-Governmental Organization dedicated to training and empowering farmers, with a special focus on nurturing the talents of youths and women in sustainable agricultural practices.
In his role as a Sustainable Agriculturalist, Princewill has been a driving force behind the adoption of eco-friendly and sustainable farming methods. His expertise, coupled with a passion for environmental stewardship, has led to transformative changes in the agricultural landscape, impacting communities in Cameroon, Nigeria, and beyond.
As a dedicated Trainer, Princewill has been instrumental in developing and implementing programs that equip farmers with the skills needed to embrace sustainable agricultural practices. Through his training initiatives, he has empowered a diverse range of individuals, particularly youths and women, fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious farmers.
Beyond his work with Sustain Afric, Princewill has extended his influence by mentoring over 50 Agribusiness young leaders across Cameroon, Ghana, and beyond. His mentorship program seeks to cultivate leadership and entrepreneurship skills, empowering the next wave of agricultural innovators to drive positive change in their communities.
A charismatic and engaging Public Speaker, Princewill shares his insights on sustainable agriculture with diverse audiences. His advocacy not only educates but also inspires others to actively participate in building a more sustainable and resilient agricultural future.
Njieforti Princewill’s five-year leadership of Sustain Afric and his impactful mentorship efforts underscore his commitment to advancing sustainable agricultural practices and fostering the growth of a new generation of agribusiness leaders across Africa.
He was the EVWA Changemaker 2023 in his work in empowering widows in Tiko, Subdivision on Sustainable Snail Farming. He was awarded the ideal sustainable Agriculturalist in Cameroon in 2023.
Recognized as EVWA Changemaker 2023 by the Ban Ki-Moon Center for Global Citizens.
His aspirations to to empower more than 10,000 farmers on Sustainable farming practices by 2030.
Princewill loves nature and believes that we have to nurture it.
Abdelbagi M. Ismail
Principal Scientist with over 30 years of research for development, focusing on crop improvement to enhance adaptation to unfavorable environments and to increase resilience to climate change, especially for areas affected by floods, drought, salt stress, nutrient deficiencies and toxicities. Contributed to advancing understanding of mechanisms associated with tolerance of several abiotic stresses in crops, and also to the development and deployment of stress-tolerant varieties and proper system-based crop and resource management packages; with notable impacts in Asia and Africa. Led several regional programs and projects on breeding and delivery of high-yielding, climate smart varieties and technologies, through building and coordinating large networks of research and development partners. Served in several leadership roles including Deputy Director General for Research (Interim) and Head, Genetics and Biotechnology Division. Currently assuming the role of Regional Representative for Africa. Holds a PhD in Botany, University of California, Riverside. Authored/co-authored over 270 peer reviewed articles, chapters and books. Recipient of several merit and leadership awards and member of several editorial boards and science societies; Fellow (Foreign), National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, India; and Member, Research, Variety Development and Seed Production Working Group – African Seed Biotechnology Platform, African Union.
Abdelbagi M. Ismail
Abdelbagi M. Ismail
Principal Scientist with over 30 years of research for development, focusing on crop improvement to enhance adaptation to unfavorable environments and to increase resilience to climate change, especially for areas affected by floods, drought, salt stress, nutrient deficiencies and toxicities. Contributed to advancing understanding of mechanisms associated with tolerance of several abiotic stresses in crops, and also to the development and deployment of stress-tolerant varieties and proper system-based crop and resource management packages; with notable impacts in Asia and Africa. Led several regional programs and projects on breeding and delivery of high-yielding, climate smart varieties and technologies, through building and coordinating large networks of research and development partners. Served in several leadership roles including Deputy Director General for Research (Interim) and Head, Genetics and Biotechnology Division. Currently assuming the role of Regional Representative for Africa. Holds a PhD in Botany, University of California, Riverside. Authored/co-authored over 270 peer reviewed articles, chapters and books. Recipient of several merit and leadership awards and member of several editorial boards and science societies; Fellow (Foreign), National Academy of Agricultural Sciences, India; and Member, Research, Variety Development and Seed Production Working Group – African Seed Biotechnology Platform, African Union.
Prateek Srivastva
Prateek Srivastva is a Vice President at Cropin, a global Agtech leader enabling intelligent agriculture. Prateek is a seasoned professional in the field with over two decades of diverse experience encompassing technology, management, consulting, entrepreneurship, and investing.
At Cropin, Prateek is responsible for expanding Cropin’s presence in the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, and Africa). He manages critical organizational functions with a multifaceted role, spanning revenue, investments, capacity building, and fostering academic partnerships within the region.
As a serial entrepreneur and former CEO, Prateek has successfully established, raised over $9mn+ and exited three business ventures over the course of his 20+ year career. In his most recent role, he spent five years leading a global precision agriculture startup focused on perennial crops, operating across Spain, the US, and Australia.
Prateek’s expertise has gained recognition and global exposure, with features in esteemed international media platforms, including Fortune, Forbes, The Economist, Bloomberg, Mint, ET, and Nikkei Asia. At Cropin, Prateek is deeply committed to advancing the organization’s vision of transforming global food systems.
Prateek Srivastva is based in Arnhem, Netherlands
10% of agri GDP for the region on the Cropin platform
Prateek Srivastva
Vice President, Cropin
Prateek Srivastva
Prateek Srivastva is a Vice President at Cropin, a global Agtech leader enabling intelligent agriculture. Prateek is a seasoned professional in the field with over two decades of diverse experience encompassing technology, management, consulting, entrepreneurship, and investing.
At Cropin, Prateek is responsible for expanding Cropin’s presence in the EMEA region (Europe, Middle East, and Africa). He manages critical organizational functions with a multifaceted role, spanning revenue, investments, capacity building, and fostering academic partnerships within the region.
As a serial entrepreneur and former CEO, Prateek has successfully established, raised over $9mn+ and exited three business ventures over the course of his 20+ year career. In his most recent role, he spent five years leading a global precision agriculture startup focused on perennial crops, operating across Spain, the US, and Australia.
Prateek’s expertise has gained recognition and global exposure, with features in esteemed international media platforms, including Fortune, Forbes, The Economist, Bloomberg, Mint, ET, and Nikkei Asia. At Cropin, Prateek is deeply committed to advancing the organization’s vision of transforming global food systems.
Prateek Srivastva is based in Arnhem, Netherlands
10% of agri GDP for the region on the Cropin platform
Hosea Machuki
Hosea Machuki
CEO, FPEAK
Hosea Machuki
Hosea Machuki is the Chief Executive Officer of FPEAK. Hosea has over 22 years’ experience in various fields, including in agricultural research, horticulture, natural resources management, biodiversity conservation, food security, irrigation technology, agronomy, agricultural extension and value chains development. He has extensive knowledge and experience in organizational management and administration. Previously, he has worked at the Ministry of Agriculture and for NGOs namely; Self Help Africa, Solidaridad Network and Rainforest Alliance. He has also served as a consultant for many international organizations. He has vast experience working with private sector players both in Kenya and within the East and Southern Africa region. He holds an MSc in Agricultural Extension from Egerton University and a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi.
Sheena Raikundalia
Sheena Raikundalia has over 16 years of experience in the legal, financial services and impact investment sectors in Europe and Africa and over 7 years’ board experience.
She is extremely passionate and confident about the potential in Africa. With her diverse experience, she understands and has strong networks with the government, private sector, international donor, investor and local tech entrepreneurs and hubs,
She is currently working as the Chief Growth Officer with Kuza One, an agri-tech, digitizing the agriculture value chain through its tech platform and network of on the ground rural agripreneurs. Prior to this she worked with the British Government in Kenya as the Country Director of the UK-Kenya Tech Hub.
She has had a diverse career, a solicitor in London , a senior advisor in Kenya to an impact investing group, where she provided strategic advisory services to financial institutions, start- ups, corporations, development agencies and NGOs across the African market. She is proud to add failed entrepreneur as one of her achievements, having learnt more in that intense period than all her experience combined!
She has held non-executive director positions in the UK and in Kenya in institutions such as schools, SMEs, MFIs, co-chaired the ICT Donor Group in Kenya and chairs the Resource and Partnership Committee Board at the Kenya National Innovation Agency, which sits under the Ministry of Youth.
She is a U.K. qualified solicitor with a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Bristol and an MBA from Lord Ashcroft International Business School.
Sheena Raikundalia
CEO, Kuza One
Sheena Raikundalia
Sheena Raikundalia has over 16 years of experience in the legal, financial services and impact investment sectors in Europe and Africa and over 7 years’ board experience.
She is extremely passionate and confident about the potential in Africa. With her diverse experience, she understands and has strong networks with the government, private sector, international donor, investor and local tech entrepreneurs and hubs,
She is currently working as the Chief Growth Officer with Kuza One, an agri-tech, digitizing the agriculture value chain through its tech platform and network of on the ground rural agripreneurs. Prior to this she worked with the British Government in Kenya as the Country Director of the UK-Kenya Tech Hub.
She has had a diverse career, a solicitor in London , a senior advisor in Kenya to an impact investing group, where she provided strategic advisory services to financial institutions, start- ups, corporations, development agencies and NGOs across the African market. She is proud to add failed entrepreneur as one of her achievements, having learnt more in that intense period than all her experience combined!
She has held non-executive director positions in the UK and in Kenya in institutions such as schools, SMEs, MFIs, co-chaired the ICT Donor Group in Kenya and chairs the Resource and Partnership Committee Board at the Kenya National Innovation Agency, which sits under the Ministry of Youth.
She is a U.K. qualified solicitor with a bachelor’s degree in law from the University of Bristol and an MBA from Lord Ashcroft International Business School.
Anthony Morrison Kofituo
Farmer Anthony Morrison Kofituo is a Global Agribusiness and Food Systems Advisor and Strategist, Agriculture Policy expert, and Agribusiness Value Chain Development and Finance Consultant Specialist with over 15 years of successful experience in Agribusiness Management, Entrepreneurship, and Skills Development. an Agriculture TVET Skills Specialist.
As a leading Agribusiness Policy Advocate delivering results on Ghana’s Agribusiness Transformation through precision Policy, trade and development, competition policy, Agribusiness Public Private Partnerships Policy, Agriculture financing and Investment, and Capacity Building for various Organizations and Businesses on trade and development, investment, growth strategy, and Agriculture governance.
Over the years he has provided key technical advice to Africa Union Nepad, the International Labour Organization, GIZ, Commission for TVET Ghana, UNESCO Ghana and South Sudan, the Government of South Sudan on TVET, Skills for Africa -Nepad, Ecowas Food Storage Policy, USAID Ghana. His work has attracted recognition within Ghana and internationally, In 2018,2019, and 2020 won the National Youth in Agribusiness Personality Awards in Ghana. In 2018, he was awarded the Global Agriculture Leadership and African Agriculture Leadership Personality awards by the India Council of Food and Agriculture.
Mr Anthony Kofituo Morrison is a proud Member of the Post Malabo Agenda Technical Working Group 5: Halving Poverty through Inclusive Agricultural Growth of the African Union 2024 -2034
CURRENTLY HE IS THE
- Chief Executive Officer – Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana
- Chairman – Ghana Agriculture Sector Skills Body of Commission for TVET, Ministry of Education Ghana
HIS OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES ARE
• Sectoral Advisory Board Member – West African Center for Crop Improvement University of Ghana Legon
• Advisory Board Member – Farm Radio International – Ghana
• Chairman Scaling Up Nutrition Business Network Ghana – National Development Planning Commission
• National Advisory Board Member VET Toolbox British Council Ghana
• Advisory Board Member Center for Biodiversity University of Ghana Legon
PAST – TWO TERM – Management Board Member School of Agriculture University of Ghana Legon 2018 – 2023
Recognized consistently for Performance Excellence and contributions to success in Agribusiness, Training, and Organizational Development.
Anthony Morrison Kofituo
CEO, Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana
Anthony Morrison Kofituo
Farmer Anthony Morrison Kofituo is a Global Agribusiness and Food Systems Advisor and Strategist, Agriculture Policy expert, and Agribusiness Value Chain Development and Finance Consultant Specialist with over 15 years of successful experience in Agribusiness Management, Entrepreneurship, and Skills Development. an Agriculture TVET Skills Specialist.
As a leading Agribusiness Policy Advocate delivering results on Ghana’s Agribusiness Transformation through precision Policy, trade and development, competition policy, Agribusiness Public Private Partnerships Policy, Agriculture financing and Investment, and Capacity Building for various Organizations and Businesses on trade and development, investment, growth strategy, and Agriculture governance.
Over the years he has provided key technical advice to Africa Union Nepad, the International Labour Organization, GIZ, Commission for TVET Ghana, UNESCO Ghana and South Sudan, the Government of South Sudan on TVET, Skills for Africa -Nepad, Ecowas Food Storage Policy, USAID Ghana. His work has attracted recognition within Ghana and internationally, In 2018,2019, and 2020 won the National Youth in Agribusiness Personality Awards in Ghana. In 2018, he was awarded the Global Agriculture Leadership and African Agriculture Leadership Personality awards by the India Council of Food and Agriculture.
Mr Anthony Kofituo Morrison is a proud Member of the Post Malabo Agenda Technical Working Group 5: Halving Poverty through Inclusive Agricultural Growth of the African Union 2024 -2034
CURRENTLY HE IS THE
- Chief Executive Officer – Chamber of Agribusiness Ghana
- Chairman – Ghana Agriculture Sector Skills Body of Commission for TVET, Ministry of Education Ghana
HIS OTHER RESPONSIBILITIES ARE
• Sectoral Advisory Board Member – West African Center for Crop Improvement University of Ghana Legon
• Advisory Board Member – Farm Radio International – Ghana
• Chairman Scaling Up Nutrition Business Network Ghana – National Development Planning Commission
• National Advisory Board Member VET Toolbox British Council Ghana
• Advisory Board Member Center for Biodiversity University of Ghana Legon
PAST – TWO TERM – Management Board Member School of Agriculture University of Ghana Legon 2018 – 2023
Recognized consistently for Performance Excellence and contributions to success in Agribusiness, Training, and Organizational Development.
Dr. Keni Kariuki
Keni is a dynamic international lawyer with a robust background in law, political economy, project management, and agriculture, leveraging 7+ years of managerial supervisory experience and 13+ years of extensive research expertise to drive impactful support for policy and governance initiatives within the African regulatory space.
Keni has worked in numerous teams and assisted in coordinating the delivery of successful programs as the Managing Director of Impact Hub Nairobi and Director for Scio Kenya. He is an experienced project manager and political economist with specific expertise on law, governance, social entrepreneurship, and policy. He underpins his theoretical approach, that gauges the centrality of rents and political settlement theory in understanding power. Moreover, he has in-depth experience in international law with an emphasis on land and agriculture. His PhD was on ‘The political economy of the Kenyan agricultural sector in an era of decentralization’ which he completed at SOAS University, London.
Dr Keni Kariuki
Director, Impact Hub Nairobi
Dr. Keni Kariuki
Keni is a dynamic international lawyer with a robust background in law, political economy, project management, and agriculture, leveraging 7+ years of managerial supervisory experience and 13+ years of extensive research expertise to drive impactful support for policy and governance initiatives within the African regulatory space.
Keni has worked in numerous teams and assisted in coordinating the delivery of successful programs as the Managing Director of Impact Hub Nairobi and Director for Scio Kenya. He is an experienced project manager and political economist with specific expertise on law, governance, social entrepreneurship, and policy. He underpins his theoretical approach, that gauges the centrality of rents and political settlement theory in understanding power. Moreover, he has in-depth experience in international law with an emphasis on land and agriculture. His PhD was on ‘The political economy of the Kenyan agricultural sector in an era of decentralization’ which he completed at SOAS University, London.
George Ochuodho
George Ochuodho is a seasoned professional with over 17 years of experience in program management, technical support, and leadership across various projects. He has demonstrated expertise in engaging with donors, resource mobilization, and building sustainable partnerships with public, private, and development organizations.
Currently, he is the Country Programmes Manager at Farm Africa, overseeing the delivery, compliance, and impact of various projects. His role involves ensuring the highest standards of project management, financial oversight, and reporting. George also has significant experience in program design, donor engagement, and monitoring & evaluation from his previous roles at ChildFund International, Heifer Project International, LACOMP Company Limited, and USAID-Kenya Horticulture Competitiveness Project.
George holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi, along with a Post Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Education and Extension from Maseno University.
George Ochuodho
Country Programmes Manager, Farm Africa
George Ochuodho
George Ochuodho is a seasoned professional with over 17 years of experience in program management, technical support, and leadership across various projects. He has demonstrated expertise in engaging with donors, resource mobilization, and building sustainable partnerships with public, private, and development organizations.
Currently, he is the Country Programmes Manager at Farm Africa, overseeing the delivery, compliance, and impact of various projects. His role involves ensuring the highest standards of project management, financial oversight, and reporting. George also has significant experience in program design, donor engagement, and monitoring & evaluation from his previous roles at ChildFund International, Heifer Project International, LACOMP Company Limited, and USAID-Kenya Horticulture Competitiveness Project.
George holds a Master of Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi, along with a Post Graduate Diploma in Agricultural Education and Extension from Maseno University.
Charles Gitau
For 12 years, Charles coordinated barley research and extension work at East Africa Maltings Limited (EAML) in various parts of Kenya. This entailed carrying out various trials on barley and contracting farmers in various parts of Kenya to meet the commercial needs of East African Breweries (EABL).
In the next 20 years, Charles engaged in delivering on many national and international projects and programmes involving agricultural value chains. In 2010, he and 11 other African and Dutch entrepreneurs founded the Africa Agribusiness Academy (AAA), an entrepreneur network seeking to foster innovation and growth of small and medium agrifood firms in Africa by connecting entrepreneurs within Africa and the international business world. Since its establishment, Charles has been the Country Director for Kenya and in 2018, he was elected as its International Vice- Chairman. Currently, AAA network has 20 active business clubs with over 510 members covering 6 countries of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Rwanda and Ethiopia.
In 2017, Charles coordinated an Action Research project that aimed to ascertain the entrepreneurial capacity needed to strengthen linkages between Agrifood SMEs and smallholders in view of insufficient fact-based research on their partnership arrangements. The key conclusion was that SMEs growth stimulates the advancement of smallholders and subsequently, triggers evolution of these farmers from subsistence to commercially oriented entrepreneurs. SMEs also serve as conduits to local, regional and often, international markets for their produce. Contract farming is therefore recognized as a key component that support smallholders’ transition from subsistence to commercially-oriented farming enterprises that support their livelihoods, food security and nutrition as well industrialization in Africa.
Charles holds 2 MBA degrees in Marketing and Management Science form Egerton University specializing in smallholders and management of agro-based SMEs and Micro-finance institutions. He is also a holder of a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi. He has undergone numerous local and international training in relevant fields including management of social enterprises. He has coordinated various regional and international programmes related to access to finance, business remodeling, agri-based innovations, promotion of restoration enterprises and initiatives aimed at supporting inclusive agricultural transformation in Africa. He is the key consultant at AAA and currently represents agri-based SMEs in policy dialogue processes spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries. He also participates in the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) processes under the Africa Union initiative.
Charles Gitau
Country Director and Vice Chair Pan Africa Board, Africa Agribusiness Academy
Charles Gitau
For 12 years, Charles coordinated barley research and extension work at East Africa Maltings Limited (EAML) in various parts of Kenya. This entailed carrying out various trials on barley and contracting farmers in various parts of Kenya to meet the commercial needs of East African Breweries (EABL).
In the next 20 years, Charles engaged in delivering on many national and international projects and programmes involving agricultural value chains. In 2010, he and 11 other African and Dutch entrepreneurs founded the Africa Agribusiness Academy (AAA), an entrepreneur network seeking to foster innovation and growth of small and medium agrifood firms in Africa by connecting entrepreneurs within Africa and the international business world. Since its establishment, Charles has been the Country Director for Kenya and in 2018, he was elected as its International Vice- Chairman. Currently, AAA network has 20 active business clubs with over 510 members covering 6 countries of Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Malawi, Rwanda and Ethiopia.
In 2017, Charles coordinated an Action Research project that aimed to ascertain the entrepreneurial capacity needed to strengthen linkages between Agrifood SMEs and smallholders in view of insufficient fact-based research on their partnership arrangements. The key conclusion was that SMEs growth stimulates the advancement of smallholders and subsequently, triggers evolution of these farmers from subsistence to commercially oriented entrepreneurs. SMEs also serve as conduits to local, regional and often, international markets for their produce. Contract farming is therefore recognized as a key component that support smallholders’ transition from subsistence to commercially-oriented farming enterprises that support their livelihoods, food security and nutrition as well industrialization in Africa.
Charles holds 2 MBA degrees in Marketing and Management Science form Egerton University specializing in smallholders and management of agro-based SMEs and Micro-finance institutions. He is also a holder of a BSc in Agriculture from the University of Nairobi. He has undergone numerous local and international training in relevant fields including management of social enterprises. He has coordinated various regional and international programmes related to access to finance, business remodeling, agri-based innovations, promotion of restoration enterprises and initiatives aimed at supporting inclusive agricultural transformation in Africa. He is the key consultant at AAA and currently represents agri-based SMEs in policy dialogue processes spearheaded by the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Fisheries. He also participates in the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP) processes under the Africa Union initiative.
Dr. Nicholas Kipkemboi Rop, Ph.D
Dr. Rop has PhD in Plant Pathology from Moi University, M.Sc. Plant Sciences from Wageningen University, Netherlands, and BSc. Agriculture from Larenstein – Netherlands.
Dr. Rop is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Department of Seed, Crop and Horticultural Sciences. He has served at the University of Eldoret since 2008 as a lecturer and researcher in the field of Plant Sciences, focusing on research in Plant Pathology. He has also participated in the development of BSc. In Agriculture, BSc. In Horticultural Sciences and MSc. In Plant Protection programmes that are currently being offered in the Department.
Dr. Rop is an accomplished scholar, and researcher and has supervised several undergraduate and postgraduate students. He is a reviewer and has published several manuscripts for local and international journals. He has examined MSc and PhD theses.
As the Dean School of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Dr. Rop would like to steer the school to higher standards building on the achievement of the predecessors to ensure that we produce qualified graduates for global market who are innovative in addressing the needs and aspirations of a dynamic society
Dr. Nicholas Kipkemboi Rop, Ph.D
Dr. Nicholas Kipkemboi Rop, Ph.D
Dr. Rop has PhD in Plant Pathology from Moi University, M.Sc. Plant Sciences from Wageningen University, Netherlands, and BSc. Agriculture from Larenstein – Netherlands.
Dr. Rop is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Department of Seed, Crop and Horticultural Sciences. He has served at the University of Eldoret since 2008 as a lecturer and researcher in the field of Plant Sciences, focusing on research in Plant Pathology. He has also participated in the development of BSc. In Agriculture, BSc. In Horticultural Sciences and MSc. In Plant Protection programmes that are currently being offered in the Department.
Dr. Rop is an accomplished scholar, and researcher and has supervised several undergraduate and postgraduate students. He is a reviewer and has published several manuscripts for local and international journals. He has examined MSc and PhD theses.
As the Dean School of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Dr. Rop would like to steer the school to higher standards building on the achievement of the predecessors to ensure that we produce qualified graduates for global market who are innovative in addressing the needs and aspirations of a dynamic society
Dr. Sunil Kr Ghosh
Dr. Sunil Kumar Ghosh is distinguished Associate Professor grew up in India, date of birth 3rd May, 1969, achieved his Bachelor’s degree, Mastered degree and Doctoral degree (Ph.D) in Agriculture from BCKV-Agriculture University. He joined as Assistant Professor in the University UBKV-Agriculture University in 2002 and Associate Professor in the University BCKV in 2014. Previously, he held Agriculture Development officer, 1999-2002. Since his joining Dr. Ghosh is engaged in teaching in the Deptt. of Agricultural Entomology (both UG and PG level), Research and extension work. His research area is climate change and sustainable pest management (sustainable Agriculture) especially in vegetable crops.
Dr. Ghosh has acted as Head in the Department of Agricultural Entomology for about 7 years in the UBKV-Agriculture University. Presently he is acting as Officer-in-Charge of the research projects AINP on Agril. Acarology in BCKV. He is associated with about 30 academic (including 16 abroad) professional bodies as life member, Editorial Board Member, Fellow member etc. He has published 98 peer reviewed research article/papers in national and international well reputed journals and 18 conference papers in India and abroad. He has also published 20 book chapters in national and International level. He has published two international books. He has delivered about 300 TV-talk. He has physically attended and presented research papers in 48 national and International conferences including 9 invited talk. He has achieved about 23 awards including five foreign awards. He has achieved young scientist award at national level and best presentation award for oral presentation form a conference in Cairo, Egypt. He has achieved International level award “ARA-2017” for Distinguished Scientist from Malaysia. He has guided 2 Ph.D. scholars and 7 M.Sc students. He has physically visited 23 countries for academic activities with 16 nos. scholarship/fellowship/travel grants including 12 nos. foreign scholarships. He has physically visited 4 countries for research courses in Netherlands, S.Africa, China, Nigeria, Taiwan and Laos. He has physically visited 17 countries for presentation of research paper in Germany, Bangladesh, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Egypt (session chair person), UK, China, Vietnam (invited talk and session chair person), Bhutan (invited talk), Singapore (invited talk and session chair person), UAE (Dubai), Indonesia (invited talk) and Maldives.
Dr. Sunil Kr Ghosh
Dr. Sunil Kr Ghosh
Dr. Sunil Kumar Ghosh is distinguished Associate Professor grew up in India, date of birth 3rd May, 1969, achieved his Bachelor’s degree, Mastered degree and Doctoral degree (Ph.D) in Agriculture from BCKV-Agriculture University. He joined as Assistant Professor in the University UBKV-Agriculture University in 2002 and Associate Professor in the University BCKV in 2014. Previously, he held Agriculture Development officer, 1999-2002. Since his joining Dr. Ghosh is engaged in teaching in the Deptt. of Agricultural Entomology (both UG and PG level), Research and extension work. His research area is climate change and sustainable pest management (sustainable Agriculture) especially in vegetable crops.
Dr. Ghosh has acted as Head in the Department of Agricultural Entomology for about 7 years in the UBKV-Agriculture University. Presently he is acting as Officer-in-Charge of the research projects AINP on Agril. Acarology in BCKV. He is associated with about 30 academic (including 16 abroad) professional bodies as life member, Editorial Board Member, Fellow member etc. He has published 98 peer reviewed research article/papers in national and international well reputed journals and 18 conference papers in India and abroad. He has also published 20 book chapters in national and International level. He has published two international books. He has delivered about 300 TV-talk. He has physically attended and presented research papers in 48 national and International conferences including 9 invited talk. He has achieved about 23 awards including five foreign awards. He has achieved young scientist award at national level and best presentation award for oral presentation form a conference in Cairo, Egypt. He has achieved International level award “ARA-2017” for Distinguished Scientist from Malaysia. He has guided 2 Ph.D. scholars and 7 M.Sc students. He has physically visited 23 countries for academic activities with 16 nos. scholarship/fellowship/travel grants including 12 nos. foreign scholarships. He has physically visited 4 countries for research courses in Netherlands, S.Africa, China, Nigeria, Taiwan and Laos. He has physically visited 17 countries for presentation of research paper in Germany, Bangladesh, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Republic of Korea, Malaysia, Philippines, Egypt (session chair person), UK, China, Vietnam (invited talk and session chair person), Bhutan (invited talk), Singapore (invited talk and session chair person), UAE (Dubai), Indonesia (invited talk) and Maldives.
Christopher Michael Gasperi
Chris has a background in management and administration in the USA and Kenyan contexts. He is natural leader, visionary and passionate farmer. Chris reports directly to the board of directors and ensures that the mission of FreshCrop is carried out in an efficient manner. Chris is known for his transformational leadership approach and has been described as hands on by his staff. He can be found in the farm with soil on his hands on any given day. If you have ever met Chris you probably remember his engaging personality and positive outlook.
He is proud to say that FreshCrop was awarded the Presidential national farmers award in 2023 for fully commercialized large scale farm in Kenya! Chris has also been an active member on numerous leadership, volunteer committees and is a past president for Rotary Club of Nakuru. He obtained his Executive Master Degree in Administration from Wilkes University. He is passionate about the environment and has led an initiative to plant 1 million trees in 2024. He also has numerous hobbies that include scuba diving, gardening, and bike riding.
Christopher Michael Gasperi
Christopher Michael Gasperi
Chris has a background in management and administration in the USA and Kenyan contexts. He is natural leader, visionary and passionate farmer. Chris reports directly to the board of directors and ensures that the mission of FreshCrop is carried out in an efficient manner. Chris is known for his transformational leadership approach and has been described as hands on by his staff. He can be found in the farm with soil on his hands on any given day. If you have ever met Chris you probably remember his engaging personality and positive outlook.
He is proud to say that FreshCrop was awarded the Presidential national farmers award in 2023 for fully commercialized large scale farm in Kenya! Chris has also been an active member on numerous leadership, volunteer committees and is a past president for Rotary Club of Nakuru. He obtained his Executive Master Degree in Administration from Wilkes University. He is passionate about the environment and has led an initiative to plant 1 million trees in 2024. He also has numerous hobbies that include scuba diving, gardening, and bike riding.
Gerald Makau Masila
Gerald Makau Masila, Executive Director, Eastern Africa Grain Council since March 2011 to date leading the Secretariat in serving the members of EAGC and the interventions to address challenges in the Grain sector in the 10 EAGC Countries in Eastern Africa region including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Malawi, Zambia, DRC, South Sudan and Ethiopia.
Gerald previously served as the Managing Director of Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL 2006-2009), was Managing Director of Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (KPCU 2009), was Head of Sales & marketing at the New Kenya Cooperative Creameries (NKCC 2004-2006) and served in various positions with British American Tobacco Kenya and East Africa from 1996 to 2004 in Trade Marketing and Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Departments.
He was a Board member of the Strategic Food Reserve Oversight Board in Kenya 2016 to 2020, and is currently a Board member of the Alliance for Commodity Trade in Eastern and Southern Africa (ACTESA) a specialized division of COMESA, is a Board Member and Treasurer of the Geneva based International Grain Trade Coalition (IGTC) and is the Board Chairman of the Inter Field Food Testing Laboratories (IFTL), a joint venture between EAGC and Soy Africa Limited in Ruiru Kenya. He also is the Chairman of the Technical Committee for Cereals & Pulses at the Kenya Bureau of Standards, that is charged with the responsibility of developing standards for cereals and pulses and harmonizing them at the EAC.
He has developed and nurtured strong partnerships with various stakeholders including Governments and international development partners including USAID, Sida, AGRA, FAO, WFP, IITA, CTA, TMA, IFC/World Bank, the Rockefeller Foundation, African Union United Nations Economic Commission on Africa (UNECA), IDH, Confederation of Danish Industries and DANIDA among others who have partnered and supported EAGC in successfully implementing many interventions, projects, and programs to structure grain trade in the Eastern Africa region.
Gerald holds a MSc in Agricultural Economics and BA in Economics both from Egerton University, Kenya and is currently pursuing a PhD in Project Planning and Management, specializing in the Project Finance Option at the University of Nairobi.
June 2024.
Gerald Makau Masila
Gerald Makau Masila
Gerald Makau Masila, Executive Director, Eastern Africa Grain Council since March 2011 to date leading the Secretariat in serving the members of EAGC and the interventions to address challenges in the Grain sector in the 10 EAGC Countries in Eastern Africa region including Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Burundi, Malawi, Zambia, DRC, South Sudan and Ethiopia.
Gerald previously served as the Managing Director of Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL 2006-2009), was Managing Director of Kenya Planters Cooperative Union (KPCU 2009), was Head of Sales & marketing at the New Kenya Cooperative Creameries (NKCC 2004-2006) and served in various positions with British American Tobacco Kenya and East Africa from 1996 to 2004 in Trade Marketing and Corporate and Regulatory Affairs Departments.
He was a Board member of the Strategic Food Reserve Oversight Board in Kenya 2016 to 2020, and is currently a Board member of the Alliance for Commodity Trade in Eastern and Southern Africa (ACTESA) a specialized division of COMESA, is a Board Member and Treasurer of the Geneva based International Grain Trade Coalition (IGTC) and is the Board Chairman of the Inter Field Food Testing Laboratories (IFTL), a joint venture between EAGC and Soy Africa Limited in Ruiru Kenya. He also is the Chairman of the Technical Committee for Cereals & Pulses at the Kenya Bureau of Standards, that is charged with the responsibility of developing standards for cereals and pulses and harmonizing them at the EAC.
He has developed and nurtured strong partnerships with various stakeholders including Governments and international development partners including USAID, Sida, AGRA, FAO, WFP, IITA, CTA, TMA, IFC/World Bank, the Rockefeller Foundation, African Union United Nations Economic Commission on Africa (UNECA), IDH, Confederation of Danish Industries and DANIDA among others who have partnered and supported EAGC in successfully implementing many interventions, projects, and programs to structure grain trade in the Eastern Africa region.
Gerald holds a MSc in Agricultural Economics and BA in Economics both from Egerton University, Kenya and is currently pursuing a PhD in Project Planning and Management, specializing in the Project Finance Option at the University of Nairobi.
June 2024.
Van Casteren
Mr. Van Casteren (MSc agricultural economics) is a result–oriented project manager with over 27 years of international work experience covering policy research, agricultural private sector and market systems development (Value Chain Analysis and M4P), inclusive business in agriculture and food security, and public private partnerships, with an extensive record of securing funds from private sector and bi- and multilateral donors. He is the co-founder and CEO of eProd Solutions, a Kenyan AgTech that offers a supply chain management platform for the agricultural sector in 21 SSA countries.
Jan Willem Van Casteren
Van Casteren
Mr. Van Casteren (MSc agricultural economics) is a result–oriented project manager with over 27 years of international work experience covering policy research, agricultural private sector and market systems development (Value Chain Analysis and M4P), inclusive business in agriculture and food security, and public private partnerships, with an extensive record of securing funds from private sector and bi- and multilateral donors. He is the co-founder and CEO of eProd Solutions, a Kenyan AgTech that offers a supply chain management platform for the agricultural sector in 21 SSA countries.
Lilian Kirwa
Lilian Kirwa is a seasoned agronomist with over 9 years of experience empowering smallholder farmers across Kenya. As the Product Manager at iShamba, she leads efforts to provide timely, relevant agricultural information and digital services to rural communities. Her work focuses on equipping farmers with practical skills, fostering sustainable practices, to enable farmers adapt to the changing climate.
Lilian Kirwa
Lilian Kirwa
Lilian Kirwa is a seasoned agronomist with over 9 years of experience empowering smallholder farmers across Kenya. As the Product Manager at iShamba, she leads efforts to provide timely, relevant agricultural information and digital services to rural communities. Her work focuses on equipping farmers with practical skills, fostering sustainable practices, to enable farmers adapt to the changing climate.
Lan LI
Lan Li is an Economist at Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), with 20 years of experience in economic and sustainable development.
She has led and contributed to diverse initiatives and projects worldwide, addressing complex global issues related to sustainable development and fostering extensive international and multidisciplinary collaborations.
Her current work focuses on agribusiness and value chain development and related innovations, investments and policies. As the technical lead for FAO’s contract farming program (https://www.fao.org/in-action/contract-farming/en/), she brings her expertise to this critical initiative.
Before joining FAO, Dr. Lan Li held academic positions at Tennessee State University, Cornell University, University of California-Davis in the United States, and La Trobe University in Australia. She was also an Erasmus visiting scholar at University of Antwerp in Belgium. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of California-Davis and a M.S. from China Agricultural University.
Lan Li
Lan Li
Lan Li is an Economist at Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), with 20 years of experience in economic and sustainable development.
She has led and contributed to diverse initiatives and projects worldwide, addressing complex global issues related to sustainable development and fostering extensive international and multidisciplinary collaborations.
Her current work focuses on agribusiness and value chain development and related innovations, investments and policies. As the technical lead for FAO’s contract farming program (https://www.fao.org/in-action/contract-farming/en/), she brings her expertise to this critical initiative.
Before joining FAO, Dr. Lan Li held academic positions at Tennessee State University, Cornell University, University of California-Davis in the United States, and La Trobe University in Australia. She was also an Erasmus visiting scholar at University of Antwerp in Belgium. She holds a Ph.D. from the University of California-Davis and a M.S. from China Agricultural University.
Daphne Muchai
Daphne Muchai is the founder and current Executive Director of the Women Farmers Association of Kenya (WoFaAK), bringing 30 years of experience in leadership and management within both public and private agricultural sectors. Her academic credentials include a Master of Science in Agricultural Resource Management from the University of Nairobi, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Kenyatta University, and a Diploma in Agricultural Extension and Home Economics from Egerton University. Daphne has also earned international certifications, including one in Leadership and Organization for Women in Rural Areas from Germany and another in Multi-Stakeholder Processes for Knowledge-Based Rural Innovation Development from ICRA in the Netherlands.
Her expertise encompasses gender-transformative approaches, agribusiness, social inclusivity for rural development, and climate change. She is skilled in facilitation, training, mentorship, food systems transformation, and value chain development. Additionally, Daphne is experienced in lobbying, advocacy, negotiation, and conflict resolution. She serves on several boards, including the National Women Economic Empowerment Forum, the Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services, the Kenya Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Climate Smart Agriculture, and the National Agricultural Sector Skills Advisory Committee.
Daphne Muchai
Daphne Muchai
Daphne Muchai is the founder and current Executive Director of the Women Farmers Association of Kenya (WoFaAK), bringing 30 years of experience in leadership and management within both public and private agricultural sectors. Her academic credentials include a Master of Science in Agricultural Resource Management from the University of Nairobi, a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Kenyatta University, and a Diploma in Agricultural Extension and Home Economics from Egerton University. Daphne has also earned international certifications, including one in Leadership and Organization for Women in Rural Areas from Germany and another in Multi-Stakeholder Processes for Knowledge-Based Rural Innovation Development from ICRA in the Netherlands.
Her expertise encompasses gender-transformative approaches, agribusiness, social inclusivity for rural development, and climate change. She is skilled in facilitation, training, mentorship, food systems transformation, and value chain development. Additionally, Daphne is experienced in lobbying, advocacy, negotiation, and conflict resolution. She serves on several boards, including the National Women Economic Empowerment Forum, the Forum for Agricultural Advisory Services, the Kenya Multi-Stakeholder Forum on Climate Smart Agriculture, and the National Agricultural Sector Skills Advisory Committee.
Jane Maigua
Jane Maigua is the Managing Director and CEO of Exotic EPZ , a Macadamia Nuts processor and Exporter based in Nairobi Kenya. Ms. Maigua prides in being a Co-founder of the first and only solely women owned and led macadamia nuts processor in Kenya, East Africa. She, together with her two female partners, has led the company from a start up in 2017 to a multimillion dollar profitable and high growth company which is impacting on thousands of small scale macadamia nuts growers in Kenya, whilst creating close to 200 jobs and over 6000 income opportunites in its supply chain, many of them young men and women. Exotic EPZ, whose macadamia nut processing plant in Nairobi is operated under GFSI approved Food Safety Certification (FSSC 22000), exports its products into US and Europe, fulfilling its mission of sustainably satisfying its customers with high quality product for a healthy and happy living. Jane won the Woman Agri-preneur Pan -African Award in 2018 under the African Women and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme. Her company Exotic EPZ has won further awards including the Best Women-Led Agribusiness in East Africa and has recently been awarded British Chamber of Commerce Integrity Index two years in a row since 2022.
Before getting into private sector, Jane worked for 25 years in Employment and Enterprise Development supporting businesses across value chains, promoting decent work and sustainable development. She previously worked in agencies such as the United Nations International Labor Organization, and was Program Manager, Enterprise Development at Voluntary Service Overseas among others. She also sets apart some to her time to mentor and train many women and young men into business and is passionate about sustainable businesses. Jane is a Graduate of Business from Stanford SEED programme, and received a Masters of Arts in Leadership from Pan African Christian Universtiy in Kenya in 2011.
Jane Maigua
Jane Maigua
Jane Maigua is the Managing Director and CEO of Exotic EPZ , a Macadamia Nuts processor and Exporter based in Nairobi Kenya. Ms. Maigua prides in being a Co-founder of the first and only solely women owned and led macadamia nuts processor in Kenya, East Africa. She, together with her two female partners, has led the company from a start up in 2017 to a multimillion dollar profitable and high growth company which is impacting on thousands of small scale macadamia nuts growers in Kenya, whilst creating close to 200 jobs and over 6000 income opportunites in its supply chain, many of them young men and women. Exotic EPZ, whose macadamia nut processing plant in Nairobi is operated under GFSI approved Food Safety Certification (FSSC 22000), exports its products into US and Europe, fulfilling its mission of sustainably satisfying its customers with high quality product for a healthy and happy living. Jane won the Woman Agri-preneur Pan -African Award in 2018 under the African Women and Innovation Entrepreneurship Programme. Her company Exotic EPZ has won further awards including the Best Women-Led Agribusiness in East Africa and has recently been awarded British Chamber of Commerce Integrity Index two years in a row since 2022.
Before getting into private sector, Jane worked for 25 years in Employment and Enterprise Development supporting businesses across value chains, promoting decent work and sustainable development. She previously worked in agencies such as the United Nations International Labor Organization, and was Program Manager, Enterprise Development at Voluntary Service Overseas among others. She also sets apart some to her time to mentor and train many women and young men into business and is passionate about sustainable businesses. Jane is a Graduate of Business from Stanford SEED programme, and received a Masters of Arts in Leadership from Pan African Christian Universtiy in Kenya in 2011.
Wycliffe Kiplagat
Wycliffe Kiplagat is the Director of Programs at IBISA NETWORK, a global Insurtech company dedicated to addressing climate risks in emerging markets. He collaborates with key stakeholders in the agriculture and financial sectors to design and develop innovative insurance solutions. These solutions leverage modern technologies and are bundled with essential services such as credit and agronomic advisory, all aimed at enhancing the resilience of farmers and business communities.
With 7 years of experience across agriculture insurance, climate insurance, and digital financial services in Asian and African markets, Wycliffe brings a wealth of expertise to his role. Before joining IBISA, he worked with the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture (SFSA) under its Agriculture Insurance Solutions (AIS) program, where he led the actuarial team responsible for the technical development of insurance products for smallholder farmers and the creation of an Insurtech platform.
Wycliffe is driven by a passion for leveraging technology and data analytics to contribute to transformative projects that drive sustainable growth, strengthen resilience, and deliver measurable impact across Africa and beyond.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in actuarial science and is a Certified Actuarial Analyst (CAA®) through CAA Global, in addition to holding a certification in Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR®) from the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP).
Wycliffe Kiplagat
Wycliffe Kiplagat
Wycliffe Kiplagat is the Director of Programs at IBISA NETWORK, a global Insurtech company dedicated to addressing climate risks in emerging markets. He collaborates with key stakeholders in the agriculture and financial sectors to design and develop innovative insurance solutions. These solutions leverage modern technologies and are bundled with essential services such as credit and agronomic advisory, all aimed at enhancing the resilience of farmers and business communities.
With 7 years of experience across agriculture insurance, climate insurance, and digital financial services in Asian and African markets, Wycliffe brings a wealth of expertise to his role. Before joining IBISA, he worked with the Syngenta Foundation for Sustainable Agriculture (SFSA) under its Agriculture Insurance Solutions (AIS) program, where he led the actuarial team responsible for the technical development of insurance products for smallholder farmers and the creation of an Insurtech platform.
Wycliffe is driven by a passion for leveraging technology and data analytics to contribute to transformative projects that drive sustainable growth, strengthen resilience, and deliver measurable impact across Africa and beyond.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in actuarial science and is a Certified Actuarial Analyst (CAA®) through CAA Global, in addition to holding a certification in Sustainability and Climate Risk (SCR®) from the Global Association of Risk Professionals (GARP).
Salimo Wa Kilimo
Salimo Wa Kilimo
Salimo Wa Kilimo
Barend Uys
Barend Uys is a board member of the family farmer network Southern Africa Agri Initiative (Saai). His portfolio entails supporting communal and peri-urban farmers from indigenous communities on their journey from subsistence farming to the establishment of resilient farming enterprises by implementing regenerative agricultural practices that lead to commercial viability. He serves as executive board chairman of RRAIN (Resilient Regenerative Agricultural Initiative NPC), the special purpose vehicle that was establish for this purpose.
Barend grew up on a family farm in the highveld of the Mpumalanga province of South Africa and is the sixth-generation owner of a family farm in the KwaZulu-Natal province. He obtained a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and worked as a design engineer and project manager in the chemical, military, mining and consulting engineering sectors before making a career shift to the NGO sector in 2016, where his work focussed on building community self-reliance and self-sufficiency at grassroots level, including leading community centred research. His current role is focussed on establishing good intercultural relations and cooperation between cultural communities in southern Africa and supporting indigenous communities to achieve sustainable development and long-term prosperity by finding harmony between nature, culture and agriculture.
Barend Uys
Barend Uys
Barend Uys is a board member of the family farmer network Southern Africa Agri Initiative (Saai). His portfolio entails supporting communal and peri-urban farmers from indigenous communities on their journey from subsistence farming to the establishment of resilient farming enterprises by implementing regenerative agricultural practices that lead to commercial viability. He serves as executive board chairman of RRAIN (Resilient Regenerative Agricultural Initiative NPC), the special purpose vehicle that was establish for this purpose.
Barend grew up on a family farm in the highveld of the Mpumalanga province of South Africa and is the sixth-generation owner of a family farm in the KwaZulu-Natal province. He obtained a master’s degree in mechanical engineering and worked as a design engineer and project manager in the chemical, military, mining and consulting engineering sectors before making a career shift to the NGO sector in 2016, where his work focussed on building community self-reliance and self-sufficiency at grassroots level, including leading community centred research. His current role is focussed on establishing good intercultural relations and cooperation between cultural communities in southern Africa and supporting indigenous communities to achieve sustainable development and long-term prosperity by finding harmony between nature, culture and agriculture.
Penny Musengi
Ms. Penny Musengi is the CEO and Founder of Pesira Ltd, an AgriFinTech firm promoting financial inclusion in Africa. With 17 years of experience, she previously led ATS Travel Group and held roles such as Director of Finance at Enterprise Africa Limited and CEO of Raspberry Adams Group, focusing on socio-economic empowerment.
Musengi’s leadership spans various sectors, including serving as Chairlady of Delka Trust, Founder of YouthKE Trust, and roles in cultural festivals and education boards. Notably, she facilitated significant ventures, mobilized youth, and oversaw large-scale projects, including a youth entrepreneurship center. With a background in international business administration and project management, she has garnered recognition for exceptional leadership. Musengi’s mission is to lead purposefully, uphold ethics, and create positive impacts globally.
Ms Musengi holds a BS, International Business Administration- Finance and Marketing, United States International University (USIU) (2005) and Project Management Certification-Kenya Institute of Project Management (2011).
Penny Musengi
Penny Musengi
Ms. Penny Musengi is the CEO and Founder of Pesira Ltd, an AgriFinTech firm promoting financial inclusion in Africa. With 17 years of experience, she previously led ATS Travel Group and held roles such as Director of Finance at Enterprise Africa Limited and CEO of Raspberry Adams Group, focusing on socio-economic empowerment.
Musengi’s leadership spans various sectors, including serving as Chairlady of Delka Trust, Founder of YouthKE Trust, and roles in cultural festivals and education boards. Notably, she facilitated significant ventures, mobilized youth, and oversaw large-scale projects, including a youth entrepreneurship center. With a background in international business administration and project management, she has garnered recognition for exceptional leadership. Musengi’s mission is to lead purposefully, uphold ethics, and create positive impacts globally.
Ms Musengi holds a BS, International Business Administration- Finance and Marketing, United States International University (USIU) (2005) and Project Management Certification-Kenya Institute of Project Management (2011).
Ms. Carole Kariuki, EBS, MBS, HSC
Carole Kariuki holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Sociology from the University of Nairobi and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Bowling Green State University, Ohio, USA. She has also pursued several professional courses on Stakeholder Management, Leadership and Private Sector Development among others.
Carole before joining KEPSA did work briefly for Barclays Bank of Kenya, Nairobi Chapel and Sagamore Institute for Public Policy Research, Indianapolis – Indiana, where she acted as a liaison between Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and the Institute before formally joining KEPSA. She worked for several years at KEPSA before being appointed KEPSA CEO.
Ms. Kariuki is credited for transforming KEPSA from a little known Business Organisation to one of the most influential Organisations in Kenya and Globally.
KEPSA is the Apex body of the private sector in Kenya, galvanizing the private sector through public-private dialogue and influencing the economic and development agenda.
Current Leadership Positions:
- Board Chair: LPC Global Logistics, Kenya
- Board Member: The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), Kenya
- Board Member: Jubilee Health Insurance Limited, Kenya
- Board Member: EA Cables (East African Cables PLC), Kenya
- Board Member: USIU-Africa Trustees (United States International University–Africa), Kenya
- Board Member: UN Global Compact Network, Kenya
- Council Member: NCAJ chaired by the Chief Justice of Kenya (The National Council of Administrative Justice), Kenya
Past Leadership Positions:
- Board Chair: Kenya Vision 2030 Delivery Board, Kenya
- Board Chair: SEZA (Special Economic Zones Authority), Kenya
- Vice Chair: The National Taskforce on Improvement of The Terms and Conditions of Service and other Reforms for Members of The National Police Service, The Kenya Prisons Service, and The National Youth Service, Kenya
- Board Member: IS Kenya (Internet Solutions), Kenya
- Board Member: Harvard University Center for African Studies, Africa Advisory Board, USA
- Board Member: BAF (Business Advocasy Fund, Danish Embassy), Kenya
- Committee Member: WTO Trade Committee, Geneva
- President: East Africa Chapter, Choiseul Africa, France
- Board Member: The Center for Corporate Governance Board, Kenya
- Board Member: Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration Board, Kenya
- University Council Member: Daystar University, Kenya
- Board Member: Emerging Leaders Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
- Board Member: Rotary Club of Lang’ata, Kenya
- Board Member: Growth Oriented Women Enterprises Kenya Program(GOWE), Kenya
- Advisory Board Member: ACF Women in Business Initiative of the Africa, France
- Advisory Board Member: Nailab 0 (Nairobi Innovation Lab), Kenya
- Advisory Board Member: For the Operationalisation of the Kenya National Convention Bureau
- Caucus Member: Business Leaders Caucus Group of Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation by OECD, France
- Trade Mark East Africa (TMEA), National Organizing Committee, Nairobi
- Governing Board Member, Kenya 2030 Water Resources Group (WRG) Partnership
- The Advisory Board of the School of Economics, University of Nairobi
She is a member of several professional bodies including, The Rotary Club of Langata and Institute of Directors.
Awards and Recognitions in Leadership; Presidential
- The Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) 2021, for National Development Contribution to the Country, Kenya by H.E. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya 2013 to 2022.
- The Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) 2012, for National Development Contribution to the Country, Kenya by H.E. Mwai Kibaki, President of the Republic of Kenya 2002 to 2013.
- The Head of State’s Commendation (HSC) 2011, for National Development Contribution to the Country, Kenya by
H.E. Mwai Kibaki, President of the Republic of Kenya 2002 to 2013.
International
- Global Female Leadership Impact Award and Induction into the Global Women Leaders Hall of Fame (GWLHOF), by Centre for Economic and Leadership Development (CELD), during the 2017 South America- Africa-Middle East-Asia Women’s Summit (SAMEAWS), under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum, Dubai-UAE.
- Women Super Achiever Award, by World Women Leadership Congress and Awards 2017,
- Ranked 14th and first Kenyan on the list of 100 Africans by Institut Choiseul in the ‘Choiseul 100 Africa: Economic Leaders for Tomorrow 2015.’
- Women Leadership Achievement Award 2015 by World Women Leadership Congress and Awards,
- The International Advocacy Award 2014 by Institut Amadeus,
National
- Women on Boards Network (WOBN) 2021 Woman Chairperson of the Year Award – 1st Runner
- In 2012 was voted ‘Extraordinary Personality to Inspire the Future’ by 80% of the 20,000 students of the Entrepreneurship Clubs of Kenyan Universities.
- Contribution to Society Award by Nairobi Chapel 2011,
- Outstanding Role in Creating Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Business Growth by ILO Kenya Women Entrepreneurship Development 2011.
- Role in Growing Sustainable Business Initiative 2006 by UNDP
- Role in the Development of the UN Global Compact 2006 by UNDP
Media
- Ranked Fourth in the 2022 Business Monthly East Africa Top 25 Most Influential CEOs Impacting Business, by Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, January – February 2022.
- Named among the Top 100 Kenyans 2021, by co.ke on December 2, 2021.
- Announced as one of the Top 100 Women CEOs in Africa, by Reset Global People in partnership with the SDGS office at the Office of the President of Ghana and Avance Media, in April 2021.
- Ranked among 15 Inspiring Women in Corporate Africa, by Business Today, Kenya, Edition, March
- Nominated among the Top 25 Most Influential Chairs of Board Impacting Business, Chair of Board: Special Economic Zones Authority, by Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, March – April 2021.
- Nominated among the Top 25 CEOs setting the Business Agenda in 2021, by Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, January – February 2021.
- Ranked Second of the Top 25 CEOs, in the 25th Anniversary Special Awards Nomination Edition of the Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, January – February 2020.
- Announced as one of the Top 100 Women CEOs in Africa, by Reset Global People in partnership with Pulse, and Avance Media, in 2019.
- Ranked eighth of 19 Inspirational Kenyan Women That You Should know, by Business Insider in
- Top 40 Under 40 Women in Business Awards Kenya, 2011 and 2012 consecutively by The Business Daily,
Ms. Carole Kariuki, EBS, MBS, HSC
Ms. Carole Kariuki, EBS, MBS, HSC
Carole Kariuki holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and Sociology from the University of Nairobi and a Masters Degree in Public Administration from Bowling Green State University, Ohio, USA. She has also pursued several professional courses on Stakeholder Management, Leadership and Private Sector Development among others.
Carole before joining KEPSA did work briefly for Barclays Bank of Kenya, Nairobi Chapel and Sagamore Institute for Public Policy Research, Indianapolis – Indiana, where she acted as a liaison between Kenya Private Sector Alliance (KEPSA) and the Institute before formally joining KEPSA. She worked for several years at KEPSA before being appointed KEPSA CEO.
Ms. Kariuki is credited for transforming KEPSA from a little known Business Organisation to one of the most influential Organisations in Kenya and Globally.
KEPSA is the Apex body of the private sector in Kenya, galvanizing the private sector through public-private dialogue and influencing the economic and development agenda.
Current Leadership Positions:
- Board Chair: LPC Global Logistics, Kenya
- Board Member: The Nairobi Securities Exchange (NSE), Kenya
- Board Member: Jubilee Health Insurance Limited, Kenya
- Board Member: EA Cables (East African Cables PLC), Kenya
- Board Member: USIU-Africa Trustees (United States International University–Africa), Kenya
- Board Member: UN Global Compact Network, Kenya
- Council Member: NCAJ chaired by the Chief Justice of Kenya (The National Council of Administrative Justice), Kenya
Past Leadership Positions:
- Board Chair: Kenya Vision 2030 Delivery Board, Kenya
- Board Chair: SEZA (Special Economic Zones Authority), Kenya
- Vice Chair: The National Taskforce on Improvement of The Terms and Conditions of Service and other Reforms for Members of The National Police Service, The Kenya Prisons Service, and The National Youth Service, Kenya
- Board Member: IS Kenya (Internet Solutions), Kenya
- Board Member: Harvard University Center for African Studies, Africa Advisory Board, USA
- Board Member: BAF (Business Advocasy Fund, Danish Embassy), Kenya
- Committee Member: WTO Trade Committee, Geneva
- President: East Africa Chapter, Choiseul Africa, France
- Board Member: The Center for Corporate Governance Board, Kenya
- Board Member: Nairobi Centre for International Arbitration Board, Kenya
- University Council Member: Daystar University, Kenya
- Board Member: Emerging Leaders Foundation, Nairobi, Kenya
- Board Member: Rotary Club of Lang’ata, Kenya
- Board Member: Growth Oriented Women Enterprises Kenya Program(GOWE), Kenya
- Advisory Board Member: ACF Women in Business Initiative of the Africa, France
- Advisory Board Member: Nailab 0 (Nairobi Innovation Lab), Kenya
- Advisory Board Member: For the Operationalisation of the Kenya National Convention Bureau
- Caucus Member: Business Leaders Caucus Group of Global Partnership for Effective Development Cooperation by OECD, France
- Trade Mark East Africa (TMEA), National Organizing Committee, Nairobi
- Governing Board Member, Kenya 2030 Water Resources Group (WRG) Partnership
- The Advisory Board of the School of Economics, University of Nairobi
She is a member of several professional bodies including, The Rotary Club of Langata and Institute of Directors.
Awards and Recognitions in Leadership; Presidential
- The Elder of the Order of the Burning Spear (EBS) 2021, for National Development Contribution to the Country, Kenya by H.E. Uhuru Muigai Kenyatta, President of the Republic of Kenya 2013 to 2022.
- The Moran of the Order of the Burning Spear (MBS) 2012, for National Development Contribution to the Country, Kenya by H.E. Mwai Kibaki, President of the Republic of Kenya 2002 to 2013.
- The Head of State’s Commendation (HSC) 2011, for National Development Contribution to the Country, Kenya by
H.E. Mwai Kibaki, President of the Republic of Kenya 2002 to 2013.
International
- Global Female Leadership Impact Award and Induction into the Global Women Leaders Hall of Fame (GWLHOF), by Centre for Economic and Leadership Development (CELD), during the 2017 South America- Africa-Middle East-Asia Women’s Summit (SAMEAWS), under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Juma Bin Maktoum, Dubai-UAE.
- Women Super Achiever Award, by World Women Leadership Congress and Awards 2017,
- Ranked 14th and first Kenyan on the list of 100 Africans by Institut Choiseul in the ‘Choiseul 100 Africa: Economic Leaders for Tomorrow 2015.’
- Women Leadership Achievement Award 2015 by World Women Leadership Congress and Awards,
- The International Advocacy Award 2014 by Institut Amadeus,
National
- Women on Boards Network (WOBN) 2021 Woman Chairperson of the Year Award – 1st Runner
- In 2012 was voted ‘Extraordinary Personality to Inspire the Future’ by 80% of the 20,000 students of the Entrepreneurship Clubs of Kenyan Universities.
- Contribution to Society Award by Nairobi Chapel 2011,
- Outstanding Role in Creating Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Business Growth by ILO Kenya Women Entrepreneurship Development 2011.
- Role in Growing Sustainable Business Initiative 2006 by UNDP
- Role in the Development of the UN Global Compact 2006 by UNDP
Media
- Ranked Fourth in the 2022 Business Monthly East Africa Top 25 Most Influential CEOs Impacting Business, by Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, January – February 2022.
- Named among the Top 100 Kenyans 2021, by co.ke on December 2, 2021.
- Announced as one of the Top 100 Women CEOs in Africa, by Reset Global People in partnership with the SDGS office at the Office of the President of Ghana and Avance Media, in April 2021.
- Ranked among 15 Inspiring Women in Corporate Africa, by Business Today, Kenya, Edition, March
- Nominated among the Top 25 Most Influential Chairs of Board Impacting Business, Chair of Board: Special Economic Zones Authority, by Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, March – April 2021.
- Nominated among the Top 25 CEOs setting the Business Agenda in 2021, by Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, January – February 2021.
- Ranked Second of the Top 25 CEOs, in the 25th Anniversary Special Awards Nomination Edition of the Business Monthly, East Africa Edition, January – February 2020.
- Announced as one of the Top 100 Women CEOs in Africa, by Reset Global People in partnership with Pulse, and Avance Media, in 2019.
- Ranked eighth of 19 Inspirational Kenyan Women That You Should know, by Business Insider in
- Top 40 Under 40 Women in Business Awards Kenya, 2011 and 2012 consecutively by The Business Daily,
Aline M. Mugisho
Aline M. Mugisho is the Chief Executive Officer of IITA Youth Agripreneurs (IYA) and the Country Convener of CGIAR, a global research partnership dedicated to transforming food, land, and water systems amidst the climate crisis. Under her leadership, IYA has empowered over one million youths across 32 countries to become successful agripreneurs, contributing significantly to Africa’s agrifood system transformation.
Before joining IITA, Ms. Mugisho was a Senior Project Manager for the European Youth Education Centre (EJBW), Ministry of Women, Children, Youth, and Elderly Affairs in Germany. She also worked as a Senior Consultant on various USAID-funded programs, integrating gender and youth perspectives into agricultural initiatives. Ms. Mugisho has also supported various strategic processes and has occupied different advisory roles in SADC, Europe, and West Africa.
Ms. Mugisho holds a Master’s in Migration Studies, a degree in Journalism and Communication, and is completing her PhD in Public Policy with a focus on gender and resilience. She has received numerous professional awards in sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and America, where she has previously worked on various programs.
Aline M. Mugisho
Aline M. Mugisho
Aline M. Mugisho is the Chief Executive Officer of IITA Youth Agripreneurs (IYA) and the Country Convener of CGIAR, a global research partnership dedicated to transforming food, land, and water systems amidst the climate crisis. Under her leadership, IYA has empowered over one million youths across 32 countries to become successful agripreneurs, contributing significantly to Africa’s agrifood system transformation.
Before joining IITA, Ms. Mugisho was a Senior Project Manager for the European Youth Education Centre (EJBW), Ministry of Women, Children, Youth, and Elderly Affairs in Germany. She also worked as a Senior Consultant on various USAID-funded programs, integrating gender and youth perspectives into agricultural initiatives. Ms. Mugisho has also supported various strategic processes and has occupied different advisory roles in SADC, Europe, and West Africa.
Ms. Mugisho holds a Master’s in Migration Studies, a degree in Journalism and Communication, and is completing her PhD in Public Policy with a focus on gender and resilience. She has received numerous professional awards in sub-Saharan Africa, Europe, and America, where she has previously worked on various programs.
Linda Capwell
Linda is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with extensive experience across diverse sectors, including telecommunications, financial services, agriculture, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). Linda is uniquely skilled in driving business growth through strategic brand development initiatives, new revenue generation streams, profitable portfolio optimization, and new market entry for multinational brands.
Currently, she leads the market access, communications, and investor relations function at Kentegra Biotechnology, a U.S.-Kenya company at the forefront of reshaping Kenya’s pyrethrum industry on a global scale.
Linda is passionate about leveraging her expertise to develop and champion human-centered initiatives that drive positive, scalable, and sustainable impact for communities to thrive.
Linda Capwell
Linda Capwell
Linda is a seasoned marketing and communications professional with extensive experience across diverse sectors, including telecommunications, financial services, agriculture, and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG). Linda is uniquely skilled in driving business growth through strategic brand development initiatives, new revenue generation streams, profitable portfolio optimization, and new market entry for multinational brands.
Currently, she leads the market access, communications, and investor relations function at Kentegra Biotechnology, a U.S.-Kenya company at the forefront of reshaping Kenya’s pyrethrum industry on a global scale.
Linda is passionate about leveraging her expertise to develop and champion human-centered initiatives that drive positive, scalable, and sustainable impact for communities to thrive.
Elijah Mbugua
Elijah Mbugua is a world-leading agribusiness management and enterprise development consultant and trainer. He has dedicated his career to advancing economic development, food security, Agribusiness and Market systems and sustainable Value Chain across Kenya. He worked as Director of Agribusiness in the County Government of Murang’a for Ten Years. He was the project manager in the team that transformed the Daily, Mangoes and avocado sector. During this period over 20,000 farmers adopted organic farming and entered in contract farming with local and export companies.
He has over 25 years of experience working with organizations, businesses, and communities, Elijah has specialized in addressing critical issues such as climate change, Contract farming, disaster risk reduction, and early warning systems. His expertise extends to the design and development of program, monitoring and evaluation systems, as well as conducting training, project implementation, surveys, and studies.
Throughout his career, Elijah has transformed the lives of numerous farmers, micro-enterprises, smallholder farmers, farmer associations, cooperatives, and agribusinesses. His work has empowered these groups to increase food production, enhance dietary diversity, diversify income sources, and build sustainable livelihoods that are resilient to external shocks.
Elijah holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Egerton University and a Master’s Degree in Agribusiness Management and Enterprise Development from Kenyatta University. His commitment to agricultural advancement and community empowerment continues to drive his impactful work in the sector.
He believes in small project with high impact and the future of agriculture is in youth and women. While innovation technology is the game changer. During his free time, he spends with his family at the farm.
Elijah Mbugua
Elijah Mbugua
Elijah Mbugua is a world-leading agribusiness management and enterprise development consultant and trainer. He has dedicated his career to advancing economic development, food security, Agribusiness and Market systems and sustainable Value Chain across Kenya. He worked as Director of Agribusiness in the County Government of Murang’a for Ten Years. He was the project manager in the team that transformed the Daily, Mangoes and avocado sector. During this period over 20,000 farmers adopted organic farming and entered in contract farming with local and export companies.
He has over 25 years of experience working with organizations, businesses, and communities, Elijah has specialized in addressing critical issues such as climate change, Contract farming, disaster risk reduction, and early warning systems. His expertise extends to the design and development of program, monitoring and evaluation systems, as well as conducting training, project implementation, surveys, and studies.
Throughout his career, Elijah has transformed the lives of numerous farmers, micro-enterprises, smallholder farmers, farmer associations, cooperatives, and agribusinesses. His work has empowered these groups to increase food production, enhance dietary diversity, diversify income sources, and build sustainable livelihoods that are resilient to external shocks.
Elijah holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from Egerton University and a Master’s Degree in Agribusiness Management and Enterprise Development from Kenyatta University. His commitment to agricultural advancement and community empowerment continues to drive his impactful work in the sector.
He believes in small project with high impact and the future of agriculture is in youth and women. While innovation technology is the game changer. During his free time, he spends with his family at the farm.
Junnie R. Wangari
A visionary leader and seasoned business strategist with over 20 years of sales, marketing, and business development experience in multi-national corporations such as GlaxoSmithKline, Airtel and Coca-Cola Africa.
She developed Biochar4Life Organic Soil Conditioner, leveraging agricultural waste to enhance soil fertility. As CEO of J J Elen’s Limited, she drives product line expansions and market development. Junnie co-founded OFIMAK to promote local production and use of organic farm inputs in Kenya.
Junnie holds a Master’s in Strategic Management and a Bachelor’s in Economics & Mathematics from the University of Nairobi. A marketing diploma holder from The Chartered Institute of Marketing, she actively participates in promoting sustainable waste management practices through organizations such as the Marketing Society of Kenya, Kenya Renewable Energy Association and OFIMAK.
Junnie R. Wangari
Junnie R. Wangari
A visionary leader and seasoned business strategist with over 20 years of sales, marketing, and business development experience in multi-national corporations such as GlaxoSmithKline, Airtel and Coca-Cola Africa.
She developed Biochar4Life Organic Soil Conditioner, leveraging agricultural waste to enhance soil fertility. As CEO of J J Elen’s Limited, she drives product line expansions and market development. Junnie co-founded OFIMAK to promote local production and use of organic farm inputs in Kenya.
Junnie holds a Master’s in Strategic Management and a Bachelor’s in Economics & Mathematics from the University of Nairobi. A marketing diploma holder from The Chartered Institute of Marketing, she actively participates in promoting sustainable waste management practices through organizations such as the Marketing Society of Kenya, Kenya Renewable Energy Association and OFIMAK.
Nancy Gitonga
A visionary leader and seasoned business strategist with over 20 years of sales, marketing, and business development experience in multi-national corporations such as GlaxoSmithKline, Airtel and Coca-Cola Africa.
She developed Biochar4Life Organic Soil Conditioner, leveraging agricultural waste to enhance soil fertility. As CEO of J J Elen’s Limited, she drives product line expansions and market development. Junnie co-founded OFIMAK to promote local production and use of organic farm inputs in Kenya.
Junnie holds a Master’s in Strategic Management and a Bachelor’s in Economics & Mathematics from the University of Nairobi. A marketing diploma holder from The Chartered Institute of Marketing, she actively participates in promoting sustainable waste management practices through organizations such as the Marketing Society of Kenya, Kenya Renewable Energy Association and OFIMAK.
Nancy Gitonga
Nancy Gitonga
A visionary leader and seasoned business strategist with over 20 years of sales, marketing, and business development experience in multi-national corporations such as GlaxoSmithKline, Airtel and Coca-Cola Africa.
She developed Biochar4Life Organic Soil Conditioner, leveraging agricultural waste to enhance soil fertility. As CEO of J J Elen’s Limited, she drives product line expansions and market development. Junnie co-founded OFIMAK to promote local production and use of organic farm inputs in Kenya.
Junnie holds a Master’s in Strategic Management and a Bachelor’s in Economics & Mathematics from the University of Nairobi. A marketing diploma holder from The Chartered Institute of Marketing, she actively participates in promoting sustainable waste management practices through organizations such as the Marketing Society of Kenya, Kenya Renewable Energy Association and OFIMAK.
Charles Macharia
Charles Macharia is the general manager for East Africa at Koppert Biological Systems –the international market leader in the field of biological crop protection. The company contributes to better health of people and the planet by partnering with nature to serve farmers and make agriculture safer, resilient and more sustainable. Operating from the Kenya, Charles is responsible for East Africa through subsidiaries in Uganda and Tanzania, while working through distributors in Rwanda. He also serves as the MD for Latia Agribusiness Solutions, a social enterprise offering agribusiness training and services including the management of agricultural value chains.
Charles holds an MBA in International Trade from the Texas A&M International University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology (JKUAT).
Charles Macharia
Charles Macharia
Charles Macharia is the general manager for East Africa at Koppert Biological Systems –the international market leader in the field of biological crop protection. The company contributes to better health of people and the planet by partnering with nature to serve farmers and make agriculture safer, resilient and more sustainable. Operating from the Kenya, Charles is responsible for East Africa through subsidiaries in Uganda and Tanzania, while working through distributors in Rwanda. He also serves as the MD for Latia Agribusiness Solutions, a social enterprise offering agribusiness training and services including the management of agricultural value chains.
Charles holds an MBA in International Trade from the Texas A&M International University, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Horticulture from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture & Technology (JKUAT).
Joachim Westerveld
Joachim is a serial entrepreneur who believes in creating businesses that impact people & our world positively. For him, it’s all about doing good by the three P’s People, Planet and Profit. He is a Global citizen, Dutch by birth who has made Kenya his home.
His current 9 to 5 is as CEO of Highlands Drinks ltd, however, he is a man who wears many leadership hats one of which is as Executive Chairman at Bio-Foods Kenya, one of Kenya’s leading dairy food companies, Greenspoon a clean-eating E-commerce site where we sell honestly delicious products, SamakGro- a fish feed producer in Kenya and Mawingu -Kenya’s largest internet service provider (ISP) dedicated exclusively to the rural and peri-urban markets in the country. He is currently in the process of setting up Maxim-in Kenya-a leading agricultural & agri-business input provider. He is also co-founder and Chairman of ProFarm Pakistan, serving over 100,000 dairy farmers in the market with products and support. Joachim is the co-founder of TBL Mirror Fund, a private equity fund focused on Nigerian and East African SMEs, and the founder and owner of The Blue Link, a double-bottom-line investment firm operating in East Africa and Pakistan.
Joachim previously served as COO of Shujaaz Inc, as well as COO of Cellulant, East and West Africa’s leading indigenous payments firm. Joachim holds a degree from the University of Amsterdam.
Joachim Westerveld
Joachim Westerveld
Joachim is a serial entrepreneur who believes in creating businesses that impact people & our world positively. For him, it’s all about doing good by the three P’s People, Planet and Profit. He is a Global citizen, Dutch by birth who has made Kenya his home.
His current 9 to 5 is as CEO of Highlands Drinks ltd, however, he is a man who wears many leadership hats one of which is as Executive Chairman at Bio-Foods Kenya, one of Kenya’s leading dairy food companies, Greenspoon a clean-eating E-commerce site where we sell honestly delicious products, SamakGro- a fish feed producer in Kenya and Mawingu -Kenya’s largest internet service provider (ISP) dedicated exclusively to the rural and peri-urban markets in the country. He is currently in the process of setting up Maxim-in Kenya-a leading agricultural & agri-business input provider. He is also co-founder and Chairman of ProFarm Pakistan, serving over 100,000 dairy farmers in the market with products and support. Joachim is the co-founder of TBL Mirror Fund, a private equity fund focused on Nigerian and East African SMEs, and the founder and owner of The Blue Link, a double-bottom-line investment firm operating in East Africa and Pakistan.
Joachim previously served as COO of Shujaaz Inc, as well as COO of Cellulant, East and West Africa’s leading indigenous payments firm. Joachim holds a degree from the University of Amsterdam.
Christine Murangi
Christine Murangi is a Senior Associate in the Projects, Energy and Restructuring Practice Group at IKM Advocates. She is an experienced contracts lawyer who specialises in commercial contracts, public private partnerships, public procurement, project finance, SESG, energy and infrastructure advisory and insolvency and restructuring.
She advises a broad range of clients including project sponsors, government institutions, financial institutions and private parties on commercial contracting, infrastructure projects, public private partnerships (PPPs), public procurement, Government contracting, and power projects, among others.
She is experienced in drafting and negotiating complex contracts including PPP and concession contracts, construction contracts, operation and maintenance contracts, supply contracts, power purchase agreements, and project finance documents.
A thought leader in the Projects and Energy space, Christine is not only an active contributor to the Business Daily, a widely read Kenyan business newspaper, but also contributes to the World Bank’s Public Private Partnerships and Infrastructure Development surveys. Her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field is evident through numerous publications authored in her areas of expertise.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Christine Murangi has been acknowledged as a Rising Star by the IFLR1000 Financial and Corporate Guide, in Project Development in Kenya.
Christine Murangi
Christine Murangi
Christine Murangi is a Senior Associate in the Projects, Energy and Restructuring Practice Group at IKM Advocates. She is an experienced contracts lawyer who specialises in commercial contracts, public private partnerships, public procurement, project finance, SESG, energy and infrastructure advisory and insolvency and restructuring.
She advises a broad range of clients including project sponsors, government institutions, financial institutions and private parties on commercial contracting, infrastructure projects, public private partnerships (PPPs), public procurement, Government contracting, and power projects, among others.
She is experienced in drafting and negotiating complex contracts including PPP and concession contracts, construction contracts, operation and maintenance contracts, supply contracts, power purchase agreements, and project finance documents.
A thought leader in the Projects and Energy space, Christine is not only an active contributor to the Business Daily, a widely read Kenyan business newspaper, but also contributes to the World Bank’s Public Private Partnerships and Infrastructure Development surveys. Her commitment to advancing knowledge in her field is evident through numerous publications authored in her areas of expertise.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Christine Murangi has been acknowledged as a Rising Star by the IFLR1000 Financial and Corporate Guide, in Project Development in Kenya.
Jackson Opati Echoka
Jackson O. Echoka has a solid background in Agribusiness Finance, Risk and Compliance Management, and Multi-stakeholder Project Coordination. With over 30 years of experience at the Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC), he has focused on risk management and agribusiness finance. Additionally, he serves as a Risk and Compliance Officer at the Kenya Credit Guarantee Scheme.
Jackson holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and a Master’s degree in Agriculture and Applied Economics and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Science. His extensive experience engaging with financial institutions and agricultural development organizations, combined with his passion for social impact, makes him adept at building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, and industry associations.
Jackson Opati Echoka
Jackson Opati Echoka
Jackson O. Echoka has a solid background in Agribusiness Finance, Risk and Compliance Management, and Multi-stakeholder Project Coordination. With over 30 years of experience at the Agricultural Finance Corporation (AFC), he has focused on risk management and agribusiness finance. Additionally, he serves as a Risk and Compliance Officer at the Kenya Credit Guarantee Scheme.
Jackson holds a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and a Master’s degree in Agriculture and Applied Economics and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Data Science. His extensive experience engaging with financial institutions and agricultural development organizations, combined with his passion for social impact, makes him adept at building and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, including government agencies, development partners, and industry associations.
Ann Macharia
Ann Macharia, Head of Training, Latia Agripreneurship Institute | Latia Agribusiness Solutions Kenya Ann is a dedicated and versatile professional in the agricultural sector with a strong focus on youth and women’s empowerment. She serves as the Training Manager at Latia Agripreneurship Institute in Kenya, where she actively contributes to the development and implementation of Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET) programs. With a deep commitment to staying current with emerging farming trends, Ann brings a forward-thinking approach to her work. Her dedication to empowering youth and women is evident through her mentorship and training programs, which emphasize horticulture management and hydroponic systems. She has also coordinated the Skill Up! project, equipping youths with practical agricultural skills. In her current role as Training Manager, Ann integrates soft skills into the technical training curriculum, prioritizing gender inclusivity and promoting opportunities for women in agriculture. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education and Extension, and she is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Global Food Security and Nutrition.
Ann Macharia
Ann Macharia
Ann Macharia, Head of Training, Latia Agripreneurship Institute | Latia Agribusiness Solutions Kenya Ann is a dedicated and versatile professional in the agricultural sector with a strong focus on youth and women’s empowerment. She serves as the Training Manager at Latia Agripreneurship Institute in Kenya, where she actively contributes to the development and implementation of Competence-Based Education and Training (CBET) programs. With a deep commitment to staying current with emerging farming trends, Ann brings a forward-thinking approach to her work. Her dedication to empowering youth and women is evident through her mentorship and training programs, which emphasize horticulture management and hydroponic systems. She has also coordinated the Skill Up! project, equipping youths with practical agricultural skills. In her current role as Training Manager, Ann integrates soft skills into the technical training curriculum, prioritizing gender inclusivity and promoting opportunities for women in agriculture. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture Education and Extension, and she is currently pursuing a Masters degree in Global Food Security and Nutrition.
Divinah Musota
Divinah is an experienced professional in Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, and Accountability, with over 10 years in project management, 8 of which are specifically in monitoring and evaluation. She has developed comprehensive frameworks and plans to assess agricultural projects and programs. Currently, she works at the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation, where she leads impact assessments efforts to ensure initiatives effectively address agricultural challenges and deliver measurable benefits to farming communities.
She holds a Master of Arts in Project Planning and Management, a Bachelor of Arts in Project Planning and Management, and a Certification in Monitoring and Evaluation, all from the University of Nairobi. She also holds certifications in Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Management from the Kenya Institute of Management.
Divinah Musota
Divinah Musota
Divinah is an experienced professional in Monitoring, Evaluation, Learning, and Accountability, with over 10 years in project management, 8 of which are specifically in monitoring and evaluation. She has developed comprehensive frameworks and plans to assess agricultural projects and programs. Currently, she works at the Kenya National Farmers’ Federation, where she leads impact assessments efforts to ensure initiatives effectively address agricultural challenges and deliver measurable benefits to farming communities.
She holds a Master of Arts in Project Planning and Management, a Bachelor of Arts in Project Planning and Management, and a Certification in Monitoring and Evaluation, all from the University of Nairobi. She also holds certifications in Environmental Impact Assessment and Strategic Management from the Kenya Institute of Management.
Erick Ogumo (PhD)
Dr. Erick Ogumo is an Agricultural Expert with over 20 years of agricultural industry experience in Sub-Saharan Africa. He currently consults for International Finance Corporation(IFC), a sister organization of the World Bank in the position of Agriculture Specialist since January 2019, where he provides technical support to IFC’s agribusiness investment team in Africa. In addition, Erick is the Managing Partners of Cropmasters Limited, a leading agribusiness consultancy firm that he co-founded in 2014, and the Country Director of Crop Health Vision Kenya Ltd.
Prior to joining IFC, Erick worked with Tesco ( the largest UK retailer) in the position of Supplier Development Manager for Sub Saharan Africa, where he was responsible overall supply chain efficiency for Tesco through supply chain optimization and sourcing and cost efficiency, food safety management, quality and legality of all fresh produce sourced by Tesco from the region. Prior to joining Tesco, he worked with The Coca-Cola Company in the position of Supply Chain Agronomist for East & West Africa, during which he successfully pioneered local sourcing of juice ingredients from Africa for The Coca-Cola Company. Before joining The Coca-Cola Company, he was the Group Agronomist for Finlays/Flamingo responsible for East African supply base.
Education
Erick holds PhD in Food Science & Technology, MSc in Crop Protection and BSc in Agriculture. He has published over 5 peer-reviewed papers in respected journals.
Professional membership
He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture and founding Chairman and member of Society of Crop Agribusiness Advisors (SOCAA)
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-erick-ogumo-phd-mcihort-78282239/
Erick Ogumo (PhD)
Erick Ogumo (PhD)
Dr. Erick Ogumo is an Agricultural Expert with over 20 years of agricultural industry experience in Sub-Saharan Africa. He currently consults for International Finance Corporation(IFC), a sister organization of the World Bank in the position of Agriculture Specialist since January 2019, where he provides technical support to IFC’s agribusiness investment team in Africa. In addition, Erick is the Managing Partners of Cropmasters Limited, a leading agribusiness consultancy firm that he co-founded in 2014, and the Country Director of Crop Health Vision Kenya Ltd.
Prior to joining IFC, Erick worked with Tesco ( the largest UK retailer) in the position of Supplier Development Manager for Sub Saharan Africa, where he was responsible overall supply chain efficiency for Tesco through supply chain optimization and sourcing and cost efficiency, food safety management, quality and legality of all fresh produce sourced by Tesco from the region. Prior to joining Tesco, he worked with The Coca-Cola Company in the position of Supply Chain Agronomist for East & West Africa, during which he successfully pioneered local sourcing of juice ingredients from Africa for The Coca-Cola Company. Before joining The Coca-Cola Company, he was the Group Agronomist for Finlays/Flamingo responsible for East African supply base.
Education
Erick holds PhD in Food Science & Technology, MSc in Crop Protection and BSc in Agriculture. He has published over 5 peer-reviewed papers in respected journals.
Professional membership
He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture and founding Chairman and member of Society of Crop Agribusiness Advisors (SOCAA)
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-erick-ogumo-phd-mcihort-78282239/
Peter Muthee
Peter Muthee is an agribusiness expert with a strong commitment to education-first solutions for farming challenges, especially for smallholder farmers.
As a firm believer that knowledge is the cornerstone of successful agriculture, Peter co-founded Latia Agribusiness Solutions and later established PEMU AgriFood Academy to provide farmers with essential skills, resources, and support to thrive. Through FarmWorks, he has also built a reliable network of over 5,000 smallholder farmers, enabling traceable supply chains and tapping into premium export markets. At PEMU, he has championed sustainable farming, deploying skilled operators and setting up aggregation hubs to connect farmers with essential inputs, services, and steady market access.
Earlier, Peter managed one of Kenya’s largest contract farming schemes at Frigoken Ltd., integrating thousands of smallholder farmers into sustainable, quality-focused production systems. His work is complemented by his Rockefeller-Acumen Food Systems Fellowship, where he collaborates with global leaders to drive inclusive and resilient food systems. Peter’s career embodies his dedication to creating impactful agricultural solutions through education and strategic partnerships.
Peter Muthee
Peter Muthee
Peter Muthee is an agribusiness expert with a strong commitment to education-first solutions for farming challenges, especially for smallholder farmers.
As a firm believer that knowledge is the cornerstone of successful agriculture, Peter co-founded Latia Agribusiness Solutions and later established PEMU AgriFood Academy to provide farmers with essential skills, resources, and support to thrive. Through FarmWorks, he has also built a reliable network of over 5,000 smallholder farmers, enabling traceable supply chains and tapping into premium export markets. At PEMU, he has championed sustainable farming, deploying skilled operators and setting up aggregation hubs to connect farmers with essential inputs, services, and steady market access.
Earlier, Peter managed one of Kenya’s largest contract farming schemes at Frigoken Ltd., integrating thousands of smallholder farmers into sustainable, quality-focused production systems. His work is complemented by his Rockefeller-Acumen Food Systems Fellowship, where he collaborates with global leaders to drive inclusive and resilient food systems. Peter’s career embodies his dedication to creating impactful agricultural solutions through education and strategic partnerships.
Eunice Mwongera
Eunice Mwongera is the CEO & and founder
Hillside Green.
Hillside is an export firm whose value proposition is driven by the need to contract mobilize and link farmers to buyers of fresh fruits & vegetables to various destinations, including Europe and the Middle East.
For years, Eunice pioneered in horticulture industry as one of few female exporters in the 90s and 2000s breaking barriers & empowering local farmers to access international markets through capacity building, standards certifications and proffesionallly contracting smallholder producers to meet the minimum required standards.
Eunice is a recipient of Cornell University entrepreneur of the year AWARD 2013
Over the years, Hillside partnered and received support from partners such as COLEAD, USDA, CBI, ITC, USAID, SOLIDARID and Chambers of Commerce Netherlands & Sweden.
Currently Eunice is a professional consultant, a trainer, coach, and mentor with Bopinc.org Bill & Melinda Gates program, EU-COLEAD, and FAO-IAFN .
She is also a registered member of the Chartered Institution of Arbitrators CIArB.
She serves as a commissioner at the livelihood’s, environment, and sustainability arm of Evangelical Alliance of kenyan
Eunice Mwongera
Eunice Mwongera
Eunice Mwongera is the CEO & and founder
Hillside Green.
Hillside is an export firm whose value proposition is driven by the need to contract mobilize and link farmers to buyers of fresh fruits & vegetables to various destinations, including Europe and the Middle East.
For years, Eunice pioneered in horticulture industry as one of few female exporters in the 90s and 2000s breaking barriers & empowering local farmers to access international markets through capacity building, standards certifications and proffesionallly contracting smallholder producers to meet the minimum required standards.
Eunice is a recipient of Cornell University entrepreneur of the year AWARD 2013
Over the years, Hillside partnered and received support from partners such as COLEAD, USDA, CBI, ITC, USAID, SOLIDARID and Chambers of Commerce Netherlands & Sweden.
Currently Eunice is a professional consultant, a trainer, coach, and mentor with Bopinc.org Bill & Melinda Gates program, EU-COLEAD, and FAO-IAFN .
She is also a registered member of the Chartered Institution of Arbitrators CIArB.
She serves as a commissioner at the livelihood’s, environment, and sustainability arm of Evangelical Alliance of kenyan
Philliph Sembe Mutooni
Philliph Sembe Mutooni is a dynamic, results-oriented professional and accomplished business leader and an entrepreneur with extensive experience across various sectors, including Information and Technology, Business Development, Event Management and Agricultural Industry Leadership. With a proven track record in driving organizational growth, strategic leadership, and industry innovation, Phillip has made significant contributions to the avocado export industry in Kenya, as well as in the technology and operations management fields.
Philliph Sembe Mutooni has a proven track record of Sustainable Agriculture Advocacy.Industry Recognition (Forbes Magazine), Expanded Sponsorship Portfolio, Successful Media Outreach and Community Engagement Initiatives.
Philliph Sembe Mutooni
Philliph Sembe Mutooni
Philliph Sembe Mutooni is a dynamic, results-oriented professional and accomplished business leader and an entrepreneur with extensive experience across various sectors, including Information and Technology, Business Development, Event Management and Agricultural Industry Leadership. With a proven track record in driving organizational growth, strategic leadership, and industry innovation, Phillip has made significant contributions to the avocado export industry in Kenya, as well as in the technology and operations management fields.
Philliph Sembe Mutooni has a proven track record of Sustainable Agriculture Advocacy.Industry Recognition (Forbes Magazine), Expanded Sponsorship Portfolio, Successful Media Outreach and Community Engagement Initiatives.
Faith Cheruiyot
Faith Cheruiyot is a legal consultant and practitioner with over 15 years’ experience across Africa and the USA, supporting international development by providing practical legal solutions. She is a Partner at DECC Law Advocates as a practicing Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
Faith’s legal expertise spans companies, corporate advisory, international development, trade law, Intellectual Property, public policy development, regulatory compliance, legal drafting. Faith has extensive experience in contract law, development of law and policy frameworks, providing technical legal advice to clients and portfolios, supporting legal research, conducting legal training, conducting market assessments and feasibility studies.
Faith has also served as an adjunct scholar in leading universities, Faith has published in development and rights, Intellectual Property, land law, contract law, international economic law, trade law, and environmental law. Previously, she served as a researcher at the Centre for Applied Research on Law and Policy (CARLP). She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) and a Master of Laws (LL.M) from Washington College of Law, American University in Washington DC. She is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a member of the Law Society of Kenya and the American Bar Association and the East Africa Law Society.
Faith Cheruiyot
Faith Cheruiyot
Faith Cheruiyot is a legal consultant and practitioner with over 15 years’ experience across Africa and the USA, supporting international development by providing practical legal solutions. She is a Partner at DECC Law Advocates as a practicing Advocate of the High Court of Kenya.
Faith’s legal expertise spans companies, corporate advisory, international development, trade law, Intellectual Property, public policy development, regulatory compliance, legal drafting. Faith has extensive experience in contract law, development of law and policy frameworks, providing technical legal advice to clients and portfolios, supporting legal research, conducting legal training, conducting market assessments and feasibility studies.
Faith has also served as an adjunct scholar in leading universities, Faith has published in development and rights, Intellectual Property, land law, contract law, international economic law, trade law, and environmental law. Previously, she served as a researcher at the Centre for Applied Research on Law and Policy (CARLP). She holds a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) and a Master of Laws (LL.M) from Washington College of Law, American University in Washington DC. She is an advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a member of the Law Society of Kenya and the American Bar Association and the East Africa Law Society.
Eva Muthuuri
Eva Muthuuri is the founder of Eva’s Coffee Kenya – she has worked to build a movement of grassroots network of farmer-owned co-operatives with which she engages in contract farming. The network of cooperatives have grown tremendously, from a small founding group of big-hearted change-makers to a network of over 300, youth, 600 women and 3,000 farmers and growing. These are organized into smaller groupings within the cooperative such as women groups, youth groups in Meru, Machakos, Kisii, Bungoma and Bomet Counties and growing. We have supported local communities to articulate issues to their government, grow thousands of coffee and macadamia trees and generate wealth through merry go rounds directly improving the lives of over 1.5 million people since our founding.
Eva Muthuuri
Eva Muthuuri
Eva Muthuuri is the founder of Eva’s Coffee Kenya – she has worked to build a movement of grassroots network of farmer-owned co-operatives with which she engages in contract farming. The network of cooperatives have grown tremendously, from a small founding group of big-hearted change-makers to a network of over 300, youth, 600 women and 3,000 farmers and growing. These are organized into smaller groupings within the cooperative such as women groups, youth groups in Meru, Machakos, Kisii, Bungoma and Bomet Counties and growing. We have supported local communities to articulate issues to their government, grow thousands of coffee and macadamia trees and generate wealth through merry go rounds directly improving the lives of over 1.5 million people since our founding.
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