Angela Kimani, Ms.
Food Systems and Nutrition Specialist
MSc. Public Health
BSc. Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics
Kenya

Ms. Angela Kimani is a food systems and nutrition specialist, with over 15 years of experience in the agriculture, food and public health sector, where she has been working on integrating and strengthening of nutrition interventions in the nutrition- sensitive sectors. She has a Master’s in Public Health, from Moi University, and a Bachelor’s Degree in Food Science, Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Nairobi. She is also pursuing her second Masters in Evaluation from the University of Melbourne, Australia. She has worked extensively with the United Nations Agencies, International and local NGOs; Research Institutions and Private Sector in Kenya, Africa Region and Asia. She is keen on contributing to capacities of regional and national governments, communities and enterprises on sustainable agricultural and food systems strengthening for improved health and nutrition.

   
Angela Parry-Hanson Kunadu, PhD
Food Microbiology and Safety Specialist
Ghana

Dr. Angela Parry-Hanson Kunadu is an esteemed Food Microbiology and Safety specialist dedicated to advancing innovative interventions that enhance food safety. With expertise in microbiological assessments, nanoparticle fabrication, and the study of microbial communities in diverse food systems, she brings a multifaceted approach to her work. She has authored numerous peer-reviewed publications and actively reviews scholarly manuscripts. Her research focuses on utilizing cutting-edge technologies to improve the microbiological quality and safety of food. Dr. Kunadu thrives on collaborative research and knowledge sharing, channelling her passion for advancing food safety and fostering scientific excellence to make a meaningful impact.

   
Charity Muchoki, Ms.
MSc. Food Science and Technology
Kenya

Charity Muchoki holds a Master’s degree in Food Science and Technology and is currently pursuing her PhD in the same field. She serves as a Principal Scientist at the National Commission for Science, Technology, and Innovation (NACOSTI) in Kenya, within the Agricultural, Environment, and Natural Resources Department. She has a strong passion for research ethics, with over seven years of experience as a member of the National Scientific and Ethics Committee (NSEC) secretariat and is a member of the Bioethics Society of Kenya. Charity is a researcher deeply committed to the utilization and preservation of African Indigenous vegetables. Since 2009, she has been a reviewer for the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development (AJFAND), contributing her expertise to the journal's success.

   
Charlotte Atsango Serrem, PhD
Food Science/Nutrition
Kenya

Dr. Charlotte Atsango Serrem received her PhD in Food Science/Nutrition from the University of Pretoria, South Africa in 201I, a combined Food Science and Human Nutrition MSc from the Universities of Strathclyde and Glasgow respectively, in UK, 1996. She also holds BEd Home Economics from Nairobi University Kenya, 1985. Currently, Dr. Serrem is a Senior Lecturer in the School of Agriculture and Biotechnology at the University of Eldoret in Kenya and Head of the Department of Family and Consumer Sciences. She has over 30 years of teaching Food Science, Nutrition and Microbiology related courses in Moi, Eldoret and Eastern Africa Universities. She has also participated in the development of BSc, MSc and PhD curricula in Food Science, Human Nutrition and Food Security. Dr Serrem has supervised and examined PhD and MSc theses in Kenyan Universities, Uganda and Japan in addition to guiding over 80 undergraduate honours research projects. Dr Serrem has special interest in Cereal Science, Sensory Evaluation and Dietary Assessment. Most research has focused on food quality (fortification and safety) and product development with special focus on utilization of staple foods to improve food security and solve malnutrition problems in developing countries. Research funding has been provided by AICAD, VLIR, GL-CRSP and UNICARSSA (European Union and NRF) in addition to University of Eldoret and Moi University research funds, for studies on indigenous milk processing and preservation, sorghum and maize protein quality, hence nutritionally optimized therapeutic foods for HIV, young children and school feeding have been developed. These works alone have generated over 25 articles in high impact peer reviewed journals in addition to her other publications. Dr Serrem has also reviewed and served on Editorial board for both local and international journals. In the past she was a member of the South African Association of Food Science and Technologists, and is now a member of the Kenya Nutrition and Dietetics Institute and Food Science and Technology Platform of Kenya.

   
Daisy Lanoi Lelgut, Ms.
MSc. & BSc. Food Science and Technology
Kenya

Daisy Lanoi Lelgut is a Research Scientist at the Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO). She is also the Secretary to the Food Science and Technology Platform of Kenya (FOSTEP-K), an association that links together those in the food processing industries, academia, research institutions and non-governmental organizations on matters food. She is a junior reviewer of the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development (AJFAND). Daisy has a background in Food Science and Technology and holds both a Masters and Bachelors Degree on the same from Egerton University, Kenya. She is currently pursuing her Doctorate Degree in Food Science and Technology at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Kenya and her research focuses on the cactus fruit and its seed oil. Her passion is on research and always looks for collaborations on the same.

   
Domina Esther Mbela Nkuba, PhD
Human Nutrition
Tanzania

Dr. Domina Esther Mbela Nkuba is a Principal Nutrition Research Officer with over 18 years of experience in managing integrated nutrition projects, training, and research. As the Director of Nutrition Education and Training, she leads efforts in Maternal, Infant, Young Child, and Adolescent Nutrition (MIYCAN) and school feeding programs. Dr. Nkuba specializes in dietary diversity, micronutrients, and non-communicable diseases, and led the development of braille book for the visually impaired. Holding a PhD in dietary modifications for young children, she conducts both qualitative and quantitative research and has published numerous scientific papers while serving as a journal reviewer.

   
Dorothy Amina Effa, PhD
MSc. Agricultural and Extension Education
PhD Public Policy
Ghana

Dr. Effa’s academic background includes PhD in Public Policy, master’s degree in Agricultural and Extension Education from the University of Arkansas, USA and bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Extension from University of Cape Coast, Ghana. She was an adjunct lecturer at Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration. Dr Effa held several senior management positions at Ministry of Food and Agriculture, Ghana. She was the head of Policy Analysis Unit at Policy Planning and coordinator of Strategic Analysis and Knowledge Support System (SAKSS) in Ghana. She was a Policy officer at AGRA. She is an experienced Policy Analyst.

   
Elizabeth Namaemba Wafula, Ms.
MSc. Food Science and Nutrition
Kenya

Elizabeth Namaemba Wafula is a Kenyan food and nutrition professional with a Masters' degree in Food Science and Nutrition from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, and currently pursuing her PhD. in Applied Human Nutrition at the University of Nairobi. She has extensive experience in research and editorial work, having greatly contributed to food safety, nutrition analysis, and scholarly publishing. As an Editorial Assistant at African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development (AJFAND), she ensures publication of high quality manuscripts. Elizabeth has co-authored several scientific publications and actively participated in conferences addressing food security. She is also passionate about advancing food security and nutrition innovations in Africa.

   
Emily Mwadime Teshome-Birir, PhD
MSc. Community Health and Health Management
PhD, MSc. Applied Human Nutrition
Kenya

Dr. Emily Mwadime Teshome-Birir has been a technical reviewer of AJFAND articles for more than 15 years. She holds a PhD from London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine - UK. MSc. in Applied Human Nutrition from UoN, Kenya and, MSc. in Community Health and Health Management from University of Heidelberg, Germany. She is a Senior Technical Advisor in the fields of Population Health, Nutrition Sensitive and Community development. In particular, she specializes in Program development, review and development of Policies and Strategic plans, Advocacy and Communication, establishment of collaborative system models, research and landscaping analysis, profiling evidence through economic modeling for decision making, capacity development, development of projects’ digital tools to enhance efficiency and strengthening of information systems and, a keen presenter and moderator of related technical forums. Throughout her long standing career, she has worked in both development and humanitarian response programs with government departments, UN-agencies, bilateral agencies, donor agencies, international and national organizations. Also, she has worked in several countries in Africa, Asia, and in the UK. Dr. Teshome has written several scientific articles published in scientific journals like BMC, AJFAND and Contemporary Clinical Trials. She is affiliated to both International and National research technical working groups and a member of the Agriculture Nutrition Community of Practice and associate director of African Child Arise and Read Foundation- Kenya.

   
Emmily Kaveza, Ms.
BSc. Communication/Sociology
Kenya

Emmily Kaveza is the deputy Editor of African Journal of Food Agriculture Nutrition and Development (AJFAND). She holds a certificate in public relation at University of Nairobi, diploma in mass communication at Regional Institute of Business Management and Bachelor’s degree in Communication/sociology at University of Nairobi. Emmily is specialized in communication and editing. She manages flow chart between editorial secretariat, reviewers and authors to make sure that AJFAND publishes good quality papers honestly and equally. She also interact with students who are first time authors and also junior reviewers to gain experience in the area of food system.

   
Erca Alaro, Ms.
BSc. Food, Nutrition and Dietetics
Kenya

Erca Alaro is a dedicated reviewer with a BSc. Food, Nutrition and Dietetics from Kenyatta University. She currently serves as an Editorial Assistant for the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development (AJFAND) where she contributes to the publication’s mission of advancing research in food security, agriculture and nutrition. Erca collaborates closely with authors, reviewers and researchers to enhance the quality and impact of articles published. With a strong foundation in clinical nutrition and a passion for improving food systems, Erca is committed to bridging research and practical solutions to promote food security and sustainable development across Africa.

   
Eucharia Agom Ajah, PhD
Agricultural Finance
Nigeria

Dr. Eucharia Agom Ajah is a Lecturer in the Department of Agricultural Economics in the University of Calabar. She holds a PhD degree in Agricultural Finance from the same University. Her research interest are in the areas of Agricultural finance, Agribusiness management etc. She has been teaching, researching, mentoring and contributing to the graduation of students in the University. She is a teacher par excellence and has Co- authored over thirty articles in local and international journals and has attended several conferences and presented papers. She is married with four lovely children.

   
Faith Onyangore, PhD
Bsc. Public Health
MSc. Community Nutrition
PhD Environmental Health (Nutritional Toxicology)
Kenya

Faith holds a Post Doctorate research experience hosted by University of Nottinghmam and British Geological Survey in United Kingdom. She holds a PhD in Environmental Health (Nutritional Toxicology), MSc. in Community Nutrition and Bsc. in Public Health. Faith has practiced as a Public Health Officer in the Ministry of Health as a Senior Public Health Officer and is currently a Senior lecturer and the Dean School of Health Sciences University of Kabianga. She has vastly published, won numerous grants, offered consultancies in international bodies and a board member in Scientific societies, community service and leads in sustainability agenda.

   
Florence Odiwuor, PhD
Food and Nutritional Sciences
Kenya

Dr. Florence Odiwuor is Faculty in the School of Science, Agriculture and Environmental Studies at Rongo University, Kenya. She is a food and nutrition scientist and a food systems expert, researcher, and consultant. Her research work revolves around sustainable food systems, and maternal and child health and nutrition, currently working on transforming sorghum-based farming systems through agro-ecological intensification, food and nutrition systems analysis, value-adding technologies across various value chains, and aquaculture education. She possesses skills in inclusive participatory approaches in community engagement and socio-economic aspects in program development and implementation. Her other work focuses on food and nutrition security, post-harvest management systems, public-private partnerships, and project planning and management. She is a specialist in community mobilization, gender in agricultural development, inclusive participatory approaches in community engagement, and socio-economic aspects in program development and implementation. She is an Alumnus of Kenyatta University, Kenya, having graduated with a PhD and a MSc in Food, Nutrition, and Dietetics, and a Bachelor of Education degree from the same University. She also undertook training in food systems at Wageningen University.

   
Nyasha Grace Mushonga, PhD
MSc. Food and Nutrition
PhD Pediatric Nutrition
Zimbabwe

Dr. Nyasha Grace Mushonga obtained MSc degree in Food and Nutrition at Fresno State University, California, USA. Attained a Doctoral degree in Pediatric Nutrition, University of Zimbabwe. Was Senior Nutrition Lecturer University of Zimbabwe in the Department of Food, Nutrition and Family Science. Dr. Mushonga worked in the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare as a Provincial Nutritionist. Lectured at Belvedere Technical Teachers College Hospitality Department for 15 years. She worked as a Nutrition Consultant with UNICEF seconded to the Ministry of Health and Child Welfare. Participated in the formulation of Food and Nutrition Security Policy of Zimbabwe. Published several research nutrition articles in child nutrition and food security. Dr. Mushonga is the current Executive Board Chairperson of Ranche House College, Court Assessor at Harare Criminal High Court, Peer Reviewer.

   
Haneen Tarawneh, PhD
Dairy Technology
Jordan

Dr. Haneen Tarawneh, works as an assistant professor in Jerash University's Department of Food Science and Nutrition. She received her doctorate from Jordan University in dairy technology. Everything pertaining to food science and technology sparks her curiosity. In addition to being happy to keep in touch and work with AJFAND to publish more research articles going forward. Apart from her academic pursuits, she like doing sports and photography as leisure activities.

   
Hannah Jaenicke, PhD
Agrophysiology
Germany

Dr. Hannah Jaenicke is an expert in underutilized crops, agrobiodiversity and sustainable land management. Currently at Bonn University’s Center for Development Research, she has ample experience in national and international research projects in Africa, Asia and Europe. She holds a PhD in Agrophysiology from Darmstadt University in Germany and thereafter worked with the World Agroforestry Institute in Kenya, the UK Forestry Research Project and the Centre for Underutilized Crops in Sri Lanka.

   
Irene Akua Idun, PhD
BSc. Agriculture
MSc. Pomology
PhD Horticultural Science
Ghana

Dr. Mrs. Irene Akua Idun is a Senior Lecturer at the Department of Horticulture of the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Kumasi, Ghana. She holds a BSc. in Agriculture, MSc. in Pomology and PhD in Horticultural Science. Her research focus are on sensory evaluations and drivers of consumer preference for horticultural products, propagation techniques with media manipulations for both difficult to germinate seeds and difficult to root propagules, tropical fruit crop production and management, use of various postharvest techniques for enhancing shelf life as well as, food safety for various fruits and vegetables.

   
Jane Situma, PhD
BSc. Foods, Nutrition and Dietetics
MSc. Foods, Nutrition and Dietetics
Doctor of Philosophy of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance
Kenya

Dr. Jane Situma is a seasoned nutrition specialist with over 15 years of experience in clinical and community settings. Her expertise spans social determinants of health, program management, and capacity building. Dr. Situma is deeply involved in mentoring and supporting postgraduate students. Her leadership and contributions to both academic and practical nutrition interventions highlight her commitment to advancing public health and emergency nutrition. Her extensive experience in research, program management, and capacity building has made a significant impact in her field, especially in the area of nutrition for underserved populations. Dr Jane Situma holds a Doctor of Philosophy of Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance from Masinde Muliro University of Science of Technology (2010 to 2014), Masters of Science (Foods, Nutrition and Dietetics) from Kenyatta University, Nairobi (2004-2008) and Bachelor of Science (Foods, Nutrition and Dietetics) from Egerton University, Nakuru (1998 – 2003)

   
Janelle Larson, PhD
Professor of Agricultural Economics
United States

Janelle Larson, Professor of Agricultural Economics at Penn State University, received her baccalaureate degrees from Kansas State University and MSc and DPhil from the University of Oxford. Her research focuses on international rural development, with work primarily on gender in development, land markets, and value-chain analysis. She has been involved in USAID-funded research projects on gender and horticulture in Honduras and on women’s time poverty in Ghana. Larson has also provided numerous workshops on gender in development and incorporating gender in research and outreach. In addition, she leads a collaborative effort to develop livelihoods for highly vulnerable youth in Kenya.

   
Joan Saina, Ms.
MSc. Applied Human Nutrition
Kenya

Joan J. Saina is a dedicated Deputy Principal and Trainer at a TVET Institution, committed to equipping learners with practical skills for the modern workforce. With a strong background in Education and Leadership, Joan plays a key role in shaping Technical and Vocational Training programs, ensuring students are prepared for success in their respective fields. Joan has a Masters in Applied Human Nutrition from the University of Nairobi, a Post Graduate Diploma in Education from Kenyatta University and a Bachelors Degree from Maharshi Dayanand Saraswti University (India). Since 2013, Joan has served as a reviewer for the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development (AJFAND), contributing to academic excellence in these fields.

   
Judith Kimiywe, PhD
Professor Human Nutrition Sciences
Nutritionist, Researcher and Consultant
Kenya

Judith is a Professor and a Certified Nutrition Specialist in the Department of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics at Kenyatta University. Her main goal is to bring about transformational change in livelihoods through translating nutritional science into sustainable action. Her research has centered on use of locally available resources and support systems to enhance food and nutrition security of individuals and communities to mitigate hunger, malnutrition and poverty. She has worked as a consultant for various international and UN agencies on development programs for informing policy for Kenya, Regional and internationally, and has made a significant contribution to formulation of country policies, strategic plans and guidelines. She is serving on several National Technical Working groups, including The Maternal, Infant and Child Nutrition TWG, The Agri-Nutrition TWG, The national Nutrition Research TWG, member of Advisory Board Early Child Hood Development Network Kenya, among others. She have served as an executive member of the federation for Nutrition Societies of Africa (FANUS) a trustee to the Africa nutrition Society (ANS) and member of the IUNS (International Union of Nutrition Sciences) among others. She is currently the Director of Center for Research ethics and chairperson Institutional Science Research Ethics Committee and a champion for NACOSTI/STI at Kenyatta University.

   
Kirti Danwar, Ms.
BSc. Education
MSc. & BSc. Economics
Kenya

Kirti Danwar has extensive experience in the agriculture and industrial sectors, having worked with international and national research organizations, KPOs, and industrial associations. She co-founded MicroNutrich Pvt. Ltd., an initiative promoting awareness of naturally enriched foods to address global hidden hunger. In addition to her work in nutrition and food security, she is a Senior Reviewer for the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development (AJFAND) and other academic journals. She holds degrees in Economics (Master’s from Delhi School of Economics, Delhi University, India and Bachelor’s from Miranda House, Delhi University, India), a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) from Institute of Higher Education, Guru Gobind Singh Indraprastha University, India, and a Diploma in Montessori Methods of Education from Modern Montessori International (London), Gurugram, India. Passionate about education, she fosters the learning and development of young children.

   
Loyce Joyce Anyango, PhD
MSc. Community Nutrition
PhD Nutritional Science
Kenya

Dr. Loyce Joyce Anyango is a nutritionist and lecturer at The Technical University of Kenya, where she currently serves at the Department of Human Nutrition and Dietetics. Holding a Ph. in Nutritional Sciences, she blends her expertise in research with a practical approach to teaching and advising on healthy eating habits. She is actively involved in community outreach and nutrition counselling. She believes in empowering individuals to make informed choices about their health and works closely with clients to develop personalized nutrition plans.. With a deep commitment to advancing the field of nutrition, Dr. Anyango remains actively involved in research, regularly contributing to academic journals and presenting at conferences. She earned her Ph.D. in Nutritional Science at Technical University of Kenya, and her MSc in Community Nutrition at Maseno University, Kenya. Her areas of expertise include dietary interventions for chronic disease management, nutrition education and behaviour change, maternal and child nutrition, and nutrition and mental health.

   
Lucy Gicuku Njue, PhD
PhD & MSc. Microbiology and Veterinary Public Health
Kenya

Dr. Lucy Niue is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Nairobi, Department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology. She holds Master’s degree and PhD in Microbiology and Veterinary Public health respectively. In the last 16 years, she worked in field of Food Science, particularly on improvement of traditional processes to address Hunger, Food Safety, Food Quality and Security, and finding solutions to the challenges of Food Insecurity. Most of her research work is based on Food safety management systems, Climate Change Mitigation, management of Post-harvest losses, product development and use of natural products to control food hazards and emerging food risks. Dr. Njue is involved in mentoring younger upcoming generation on coming up with innovations that can solve problems locally and internationally. She has authored/co-authored over 40 high impact journal publications, book chapters and conference proceedings. She is a Member of Professional Bodies like the National Codex Committee for Kenya .and: Life member of Food Science and Technology platform of Kenya (FoSTep- K). She is the Chairperson for the Association of Green Champions, backing Kenyan Government on Carbon Abatement. She is a regular volunteer for activities that promote food safety and food science.

   
Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka, PhD
BSc. in Soil Science
MSc. in Soil Physics
PhD in Soil Chemistry
Nigeria

Mabel Ifeoma Onwuka holds a PhD in Soil Chemistry, MSc in Soil Physics and BSc in Soil Science. She is a full Professor of Soil Science in the Department of Soil Science and Land Resources Management (https://ccss.mouau.edu.ng/staff/mabel-i-onwuka) Director, Center for Gender, Youth and Child Development (https://mouau.edu.ng/home-centre-for-gender-youth-and-child-development/) and the Supervisor, Greenhouse Tomatoes and Pepper Projects, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture Umudike (MOUAU). She was the pioneer desk officer for Women in Agriculture at MOUAU. Mabel has graduated many undergraduates and post-graduate students. She is a registered Soil Scientist with the Nigeria Institute of Soil Science, Fellow of the Nigerian Science Leadership Program (FNSLP), National Vice- President of Biochar Initiative of Nigeria South East Zone, Southeast Focal Point for African Women in Leadership Network Nigeria Chapter and Coordinator of Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World, Umudike Branch. Ifeoma is an expert in soil health restoration, organic fertilizers (biochar) production, carbon footprints reduction and women –mainstreaming in climate smart agriculture. She is a recipient of Women’s World Summit Foundation Prize for Women’s Creativity in Rural Life, Switzerland, Australian Awards Fellowship, Mashav Awards Israel, Rothamsted International Fellowship, United Kingdom. She is one of the Henan Provincial Outstanding Foreign Scientists on Maize Precision Production Research Project, at the Institute of Cereal Henan Academy of Agricultural Sciences, China.

   
Mary Njeri Karanu, Ms.
BSc. Genetics and Biotechnology
MSc. Business Administration
Kenya

Mary Karanu is a seasoned development practitioner and social justice advocate with over 15 years of experience working with communities, policymakers, and leaders to advance food security and equitable development. She specializes in governance for the right to food, civil society mobilization, and impactful advocacy at local, national, and international levels. Mary has a strong background in training and mentoring, empowering grassroots organizations to advocate for their rights and improve their livelihoods. Previously, she coordinated a right to food project in Vihiga County with Rural Outreach Africa and was the first coordinator of the Right to Food Coalition Kenya from 2021 to 2024. She also served as assistant editor at the African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition, and Development (AJFAND) from 2014 to 2024. Currently, Mary is the Advocacy Advisor at Welthungerhilfe Kenya, where she leads the development and implementation of advocacy strategies, strengthens the capacity of civil society partners, conducts policy analysis and research, and fosters stakeholder engagement and partnerships.

   
Mary Obade, PhD
BSc. Home Economics and Agriculture
MSc. (Med. Sci.) in Nutrition (Public Health Nutrition)
PhD in Community Nutrition and Development
Kenya

Dr. Mary Obade is a Kenyan citizen with the following qualifications; PhD in Community Nutrition and Development from Maseno University, Kenya; MSc. (Med. Sci.) in Nutrition (Public Health Nutrition) from Glasgow University, Scotland; BSc. Home Economics and Agriculture from Baraton University, Kenya; and Diploma in Agriculture and Home Economics from Egerton College, Kenya. Prior to retirement in 2019, Dr. Obade worked as the Nutrition Lecturer/Head of Home Economics Department, Bukura Agricultural College; District Home Economics Officer, Kisumu District; Provincial Home Economics Officer, Nyanza Province; County Director of Agriculture, Kisumu County; and County Director of Nutrition Services, Department of Health, Kisumu County. Dr. Obade is the author of several research papers and a book focusing on the effect of maternal aflatoxin exposure through diet on infant growth and morbidity. She has also published a paper on Obesity in Kenyan Children. Dr. Obade has attended and presented papers at several nutrition and agricultural scientific conferences. Currently, Dr. Mary Obade is a Senior Reviewer with African Journal for Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development (AJFAND).

   
Mavis Owureku-Asare, PhD
Food Science and Technology
Ghana

Dr. Mavis Owureku-Asare is a distinguished food scientist with over 20 years of experience dedicated to advancing food and agriculture research and development in Ghana and Africa. As the Chief Executive Officer of Impact Food Hub, she leads an organization that plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between cutting-edge research and the practical needs of the food industry. She is the 2024 recipient of the Glitz Africa Women of the Year honors for excellence in Technology, a testament to her significant contributions to the field. She was also recognized as a 2020 Aspen Global Innovator, a Norman E. Borlaug LEAP Scholar, a fellow of The African Women in Agricultural Research and Development (AWARD) and a 2019 early career fellow of The Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD).

   
Mayeli Peralta Contreras, PhD
MSc. Food Science and Technology
PhD in Engineering Sciences
Mexico

Dr. Mayeli Peralta Contreras holds a Master's in Food Science and Technology from the University of Georgia and a Doctorate in Engineering Sciences at Tecnológico de Monterrey. She worked as an energy sector consultant at CIDE post-doctorate. Since August 2020, she has collaborated with Universidad Panamericana and published a book chapter on sustainable development policies in Mexico. Currently, she is a research professor at the School of Food Business Management, her interests include food technology, food sustainability, and working with vertical farms for vegetable production.

   
Mercy Lung'aho, PhD
Food Science and Nutrition
Kenya

With over a decade of experience improving nutrition across Africa, Mercy has led initiatives in more than 30 countries, partnering with multiple stakeholders to deliver impactful results. A strong advocate for a systems approach, Mercy leverages agri-food and health systems to tackle both longstanding and emerging issues in nutrition, food security, and health. Mercy holds a PhD in Food Science and Nutrition from Cornell University. She is a member of American Society for Nutrition (ASN), the African Nutrition Society (ANS), and the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), a steering committee member of the Micronutrient Data Innovation Alliance (DInA), and a Global Nutrition Report (GNR) Stakeholder Group member among others.

   
Monica Ewomazino Akokuwebe, PhD
Sociologist and Demographer
South Africa

I am a Sociologist and Demographer with seven years of post-PhD experience. I am a postdoctoral research fellow with the SAMRC Developmental Pathways for Health Research Unit, Department of Paediatrics, School of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. I have particular specialties in life course epidemiology, social gerontology, and psychodemographics (grouping psychographics and demographics to determine behaviours and motivations). I have extensive experience in mixed methods in analyzing large-scale, nationally representative retrospective and prospective datasets. With a particular focus, my current research is hinged on a life course approach to chronic disease epidemiology. I particularly have a skill in developing implementation science protocols using the life course health development (LCHD), notably in the form of primordial prevention, the prevention of exposure to risk factors and designing prevention strategies for chronic diseases through multi-level health development pathways. I aspire to build evidence that impacts chronic disease management, self-efficacy, and quality of life and shapes health distributions within and across populations in Africa.

   
Ntombokulunga Mbuma, PhD
BSc. (Biochemistry)
BSc. Hons in Agriculture (Plant Breeding)
MSc. in Agriculture (Plant Breeding)
PhD Plant Breeding
South Africa

Dr Ntombokulunga Mbuma is a Researcher and plant breeder at the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa. She is also a Research Fellow at University of the Free State (UFS). Before joining ARC, she was lecturer at UFS under the Department of Plant Sciences. She obtained her BSc (Biochemistry), BSc Hons in Agriculture (Plant Breeding), MSc in Agriculture (Plant Breeding) with distinction (together with a prize for the best MSc in Agriculture Plant breeding), and PhD Plant Breeding, all at the UFS. She is a registered Professional Natural Scientist under Agricultural Science with the SACNASP. She is currently involved with Honors, Masters and Doctoral research supervision. She is the editorial board member of the Crop Science journal. Dr. Mbuma has authored several high-impact journal publications and conference proceedings. She is a regular reviewer of many high-impact international journals that cut across agriculture, crop production and improvement through breeding, and nutritional value of crops.

   
Purity W. Kamande, Ms.
BSc. in Human Nutrition and Dietetics
MSc. in Health Promotion and Sports Science
Kenya

Ms. Purity W. Kamande holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Nutrition and Dietetics and an MSc Degree in Health Promotion and Sports Science from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya. She is a member of Professionals of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences (PINES), a global association for practicing sports nutritionists and researchers. Her research interests are in Maternal, Infant and Young Child Feeding, Clinical and Sports Nutrition and has co-authored research articles in the mentioned fields. She has been involved in studies and projects in food and health systems at the community level. Ms. Kamande also works with various sporting teams and individual athletes in provision of nutrition support and organization of various sporting tournaments.

   
Sedoten Ogun, Ms.
BSc. & MSc. in Biochemistry
PhD student in Food Science and Technology
Nigeria

Sedoten Ogun is a PhD researcher in Food Science and Technology at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, USA. With Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Biochemistry from Lagos State University, she previously worked as Six Sigma Facilitator and Quality Assurance Head at Dufil Prima Foods in Nigeria. Her research focuses on bioactive peptides, functional foods, and gut microbiome interactions for cardiovascular disease prevention. She has published in several journals, serves as a peer reviewer for multiple scientific publications including AJFAND, and has received notable awards including Nutrition Society of Nigeria Young Nutritionist Award and the Lohr Family Excellence in NFHC Research Award.

   
Serah Nyawira Njau, PhD
BSc. in Agriculture (Crop Science)
MSc. in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology
PhD in Plant Breeding and Genetics
Kenya

Dr. Serah Nyawira Njau holds a PhD in Plant Breeding and Genetics from the University of Embu, alongside an MSc in Plant Breeding and Biotechnology and a BSc in Agriculture (Crop Science) from the University of Nairobi. She is currently a Program Officer for Eastern and Southern Africa at Seed Systems Group (SSG) and a recipient of the 2019 Kirkhouse Trust PhD scholarship. Previously, she was an Assistant Lecturer at the University of Embu, where she taught plant breeding courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels. Her research spans molecular breeding, crop science, seed systems, agronomy, and plant pathology, with numerous publications in peer-reviewed international journals. She also contributed to the French Bean Improvement Project at the University of Embu, funded by Kirkhouse Trust.

   
Shamim Warugaba Birungi, Ms.
BSc. and MSc. in Food Science and Technology
Uganda

Shamim Warugaba Birungi is a Food Scientist passionate about evidence-based solutions for food and nutrition security. She holds a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Food Science and Technology from Makerere University and an MBA from Uganda Christian University. Shamim has expertise in food biotechnology, clinical nutrition, policy development and research. She has conducted research on food security in Eastern and Western Uganda. She also served as a Science Officer at the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation for five years where she contributed to Uganda’s draft National Bioeconomy Policy. She currently serves as a Nutritionist at Kawempe National Referral Hospital.

   
Sidi Mpa Mwakalu, Ms.
BSc. Science
MSc. Computer-Based Information Systems
Doctoral student
Kenya

Sidi Mpa Mwakalu is a researcher specializing in machine learning algorithms and mathematical modelling. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at Strathmore University, focusing on the development of data-mining algorithms to determine the dietary needs of type 2 diabetic patients. She holds a master’s degree in computer-Based Information Systems from Strathmore University, Kenya, and a Bachelor of Science from Kenyatta University, Kenya. Her primary research interests include modelling complex systems using stochastic differential equations and applying artificial neural networks for classification tasks.

   
Sokona Dagnoko, PhD
Plant Breeding and Genetics
Mali

Dr. Sokona Dagnoko is an agricultural scientist with a PhD in plant breeding and genetics and an impressive multidisciplinary background. She is currently the Executive Assistant to the RUFORUM Executive Secretary and Head of Strategic Partnerships. Since joining RUFORUM, she has been leading strategic partnerships involving universities and multiple stakeholders in both the Global South and Global North to strengthen research, teaching and outreach services in universities. She has a wealth of experience in partnerships, management, communication, resource mobilization, research and training and agricultural extension and advisory services. Dr. Dagnoko draws this experience from working as Professor of Higher Agricultural Education, international researcher, international consultant, and country manager of an international Non - Governmental Organization that has a global footprint. Her work exposed her to various levels of management of science, education, institutional strengthening and policy engagement. Dr Sokona represents RUFORUM in the Consortium Europe-Africa for Research and Innovation on Food and Nutrition Security and Sustainable Agriculture (CEA FIRST) project steering Committee. She is a member of the AfricaSeeds Governing Board, the African Seed Sector Development Organization.

   
Sophia Ngala, PhD
Nutrition and Health
Kenya

Dr. Sophia Ngala is a Senior Lecturer at the University of Nairobi, Department of Food Science Nutrition and Technology. A Nutrition Scientist, with a PhD in Nutrition and Health from Wageningen University (2015). Interest research areas are Food Consumption studies - Dietary diversity and Micronutrient adequacies of diets for children and women, surveys in community problem diagnosis, child feeding studies, impact evaluations and lately non-communicable diseases especially diabetes. She has published a total of 31 papers as well as three policy briefs to date. Dr. Ngala has attended and presented papers in many international Agriculture, Food Security, Nutrition and Health conferences both in Kenya and Internationally as well as a reviewer for several journals both local and international. Currently, she does research as a Co-Investigator (funded by EU) is on “The impact of Novel fruit juice products on blood sugar levels of pre-diabetics adults. A member of several Task-Force Groups working in the Ministry of Health.

   
Susan Horton, PhD
Professor Emeritus
Canada

Susan Horton is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and Professor Emeritus from University of Waterloo. She has held faculty appointments at University of Toronto, Wilfrid Laurier University, and University of Waterloo in the area of global health economics. Her earlier work on the economics of nutrition is well known, and currently she is focusing on non-communicable disease in low- and middle-income countries, including the impact of diet quality. She has also worked on the economic issues related to cancer, was one of the three lead authors of the Lancet Commission on diagnostics (2021), and currently serves on the WHO Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on medical devices, among other advisory committees. Sue has worked in more than twenty low- and middle-income countries including Kenya, Tanzania and Ghana, and consulted for over a dozen UN organizations, international development banks and international research organizations. According to Google Scholar, November 2024, there have been more than 32,000 citations of her work to date.

   
Susan Whiting, PhD
Professor Emeritus
Canada

Prof. Susan Whiting is a distinguished professor of Nutrition. She received her PhD in nutrition from the University of Guelph and had postdoctoral training at the University of British Columbia. After teaching at Mount Saint Vincent University for 6 years, she moved to the University of Saskatchewan, where she has been working for the past 28 years. Susan contributes her knowledge and expertise to a wide range of national and international professional associations, expert committees, journals, and initiatives. She currently sits on the steering committee of the Canadian Health Measures Survey, the Scientific Advisory Board of Osteoporosis Canada, and the International Institute for Bone Health. She also serves on editorial boards of international journals such as the British Journal of Nutrition and the Journal of Nutrition. As testament to her service, in 2012 she was awarded the Canadian Nutrition Society’s McHenry Award for Distinguished Service in Nutrition in Canada.

   
Temitope Happiness Oriola, Ms.
BSc. in Nutrition and Dietetics
MSc. in Human Nutrition (Public and Community Health Nutrition)
Nigeria

Temitope Happiness Oriola, MNSN, GradAPH holds a Master’s degree in Human Nutrition (Public and Community Health Nutrition) from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, and a BSc in Nutrition and Dietetics from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria. She is a member of the Nutrition Society of Nigeria, the Africa Nutrition Society, and The Academy of Public Health. Her research focuses on maternal, infant, and child nutrition, nutrition education, and community-based participatory research. She has actively contributed to academic discourse, presenting her research findings to scientific audiences at regional, national, and international conferences. Committed to improving health through nutrition interventions.

   
Teresiah Wangui Ndung'u, PhD
PhD and MSc. in Food Science
Kenya

Teresiah is a highly motivated and experienced Dairy Technologist with an experience of over 22 years in the Kenyan dairy industry. The experience and knowledge has enabled her to provide valuable contribution to various stakeholders in the dairy value chain through training. Currently, Teresia is the County Director Livestock Production (CDLP) as well as in charge of Fisheries Development in Nyandarua County Government. In addition to Diploma in Dairy Technology and Bachelor of Science in Dairy Technology and Management, Teresiah has attained MSc. and PhD in Food Science all from Egerton University.

   
Sharon Vera Ochieng’, Ms.
Msc. in Agricultural and Applied Economics
Kenya

Sharon Vera Ochieng’ is a highly motivated Agricultural Economist with a strong academic foundation in Agricultural Economics from Egerton University, and currently finalizing a Collaborative Master's degree in Agricultural and Applied Economics (CMAAE) from Egerton University and University of Pretoria. She has over 9 years of experience in the Agri-food sector, demonstrating expertise in project management, policy advocacy, leading food systems transformation projects; partnership building; and resource mobilization in various organizations across East Africa including Rural Outreach Africa, Kenya National Farmers’ Federation (KENAFF), Kings Agricultural Services amongst others. She is passionate about holistically tackling rural development challenges and smallholder farmers’ livelihood improvement through sustainable agricultural practices and farmer-centric interventions. She is currently a Program Specialist at Action Against Disasters Somalia, leading food systems and climate adaptation and resilience building programming.

   
Zipporah W. Ndung’u, PhD
PhD, MSc. & BSc. in Food, Nutrition & Dietetics
Kenya

Dr. Zipporah W. Ndung’u is a holder of PhD, Masters at Kenyatta University and Bsc Egerton University in Food, Nutrition & Dietetics. She is a Nationally recognized nutritionist with wide experience in the area of clinical nutrition, maternal and child nutrition, application of stable isotope technology in nutrition, research and teaching. Currently, a Lecturer at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Department of Human Nutrition Sciences. She has experience working as a Clinical Dietician with the Ministry of Health. Her career aspiration is to promote the field of nutrition through evidence-based research.