The ED's Office
JOHN MUGO
Executive Director
John Mugo
EXECUTIVE DIRECTORJohn doubles up as the Executive Director of Zizi Afrique, and the Program Director for Ujana360. His current interests revolve around holistic development of youth in the TVET sector and exploring expanded competency-building for youth to increase success chances in work and life. John is an experienced relationship-builder with passion for systemic change in education. He has led various ambitious initiatives to improve learning across East Africa. He holds a doctorate in education from the University of Hannover, Germany.
FAITH MUKIRIA
Senior Officer - Grants Management
Faith Mukiria
SENIOR OFFICER, GRANTS MANAGEMENTFaith is responsible for grants management. She has previously volunteered in community projects at Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) and Garden of Hope Foundation. She firmly believes that knowledge is power and a useful tool for societal transformation. Faith is a graduate from the University of Nairobi, with a degree in Sociology and Tourism.
WINROSE BETT
Senior Officer - Governance
Winrose Bett
REASEARCH AND GOVERNANCE OFFICERWinrose is in charge of research and governance, coordinating functions of the Board and providing research support to the Executive Director as well conducting online search for funding opportunities, qualify and pursuing quality funding prospects. Previously, she taught at Zetech university as a graduate assistant. She recently completed her master’s degree in Business Administration, specializing in strategic management. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education (Mathematics and Business Studies) with over 5 years’ experience in teaching, mentorship, and research.
CAITLIN MBOYA
Program Assistant - Grants Management
Caitlin Mboya
GRANTS ASSISTANTCaitlin is a dedicated Grants Assistant under the Grants Department . With her expertise and passion for financial management, she plays a crucial role in the daily grant management and financial reporting. . Caitlin holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Finance, with a minor in Marketing, from Strathmore University.
Directorate of Research
MAURICE MUTISYA
Director - Research
Maurice Mutisya
DIRECTOR OF RESEARCHMaurice Mutisya is the Director of Research at Zizi Afrique Foundation. He will deputize the Executive Director on matters of research and evidence, head the Research and Evidence Pillar, manage all data in the organization and coordinate all evidence sharing products and efforts. He is joining Zizi after an outstanding 15-years’ career at the African Population & Health Research Centre (APHRC), where he lately served as an associate research scientist, responsible for project management, budgeting and leadership, fundraising, and policy analysis in the field of education and health. Besides, he led the urban education and early childhood development and education initiatives – with a focus on marginalized populations including the urban poor and the pastoralists. Maurice holds a PhD in Public Health from the University of Witwatersrand, South Africa, an MSc. in Population-based Field Epidemiology from the same university and a BSc. in Mathematics and Computer Science from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya.
GACHOKI MUNENE
Research Manager - Evidence use and synthesis
GACHOKI MUNENE
Research Manager - Evidence use and synthesisDr. Munene holds a Ph.D. in Economics from Kenyatta University, a Master of Arts in Economic Policy Management and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics Degree from University of Nairobi. He brings on board a vast understanding of economic theory, their practical implications, and how to provide a statistical analysis of industry and economic data. He possesses a wide range of skills on economic governance and accountability, Curriculum Development, Monitoring and Evaluation, Research and Analysis and Technical Skills with a working knowledge of R programming, STATA, E-Views, and SPSS. Previously, he taught at Kenyatta University, in the School of Economics, as a senior Economist at KNEC, tasked with Implementation of a performance management system - The Balanced Score Card, and also as the head of Monitoring and Evaluation unit, at the Kenya Forest Service, where he spearheaded the development and implementation of a Monitoring and Evaluation System among others. Dr. Gachoki joins Zizi Afrique Foundation as the Research Manager - Evidence use and synthesis.
JOSHUA MAGERO
Research Manager - Future of Work project
JOSHUA MAGERO
Research Manager - Future of Work projectDr. Magero holds a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Applied Economics from the University of Cape Town, South Africa. His research focus areas include agricultural productivity, youth employment, human capital, education, firm productivity, structural transformation, sustainable cities, poverty, and inequality, financial and economic inclusion, nometrics and statistical analysis, causal impact evaluation research designs, Household’s resilience to shocks analyses, vulnerability assessments, leave no one behind (LNOB) assessments, forced displacement analysis, Poverty analyses (Multidimensional and child poverty), and Food security analyses. He brings on board expertise on analysis of rigorous experimental and quasi experimental impact studies; micro-econometrics, econometrics and statistical analysis, causal impact evaluation research designs, Household’s resilience to shocks analyses, vulnerability assessments, leave no one behind (LNOB) assessments, forced displacement analysis, Poverty analyses (Multidimensional and child poverty), and Food security analyses, among others. Previously, he worked as a senior analyst on poverty and inequality with Development Initiatives, and post-doctoral researcher with the University of Manchester. Dr. Magero joins Zizi Afrique as the Research Manager for the Future of Work project.
WALTER ODONDI
Senior Program Officer - MELS
Walter Odondi
SENIOR MEAL OFFICERWalter is passionate about youth participation for change. At Ujana360, he is the key connection to the Vocational Training Centres on developing the Whole Youth Development models. He also manages the Program’s social media platforms, engaging youth and sharing information on TVET. Previously, he worked and volunteered with several organizations that focus on youth development, governance and improving livelihoods within Kenya. Walter holds a Bachelors degree in Business Management from Moi University.
MS. LYDIA OYUGI
Program Officer – ECD
MS. LYDIA OYUGI
Program Officer – ECDMs. Oyugi holds a B.ed in Early Childhood and Primary Education, from Maseno University, and Master of Arts Degree in Social Development and Management from Moi University. She is an Early Childhood (ECD) specialist, a child advisor and curriculum support person, with expertise in ECD policy review and implementation, an understanding of the basic education policies in Kenya and curriculum support . Previously, she worked as an Education Officer at EIDU – a digital learning programme that promotes learning among pre-school learners in Kenya by bridging the gap in Digital learning as required in the current CBC. She also served as the Programme Officer at Aga Khan Foundation’s - (Madrasa Early Childhood Programme) in Kisumu, tasked with coordination and provision of technical ECD support services to ECDE officers, pre-primary teachers in and out of school and caregivers on quality early childhood service. As a ECDE Program Coordinator, she was tasked with conducting school assessment and monitoring the quality of care and educational services provided in the ECDE centers, termly teachers training and the development of teaching and learning materials for the training of teachers. She joins Zizi Afrique Foundation as a Program Officer – ECD. Karibu sana
DEPHINE OTIENO
Program Officer - Data
Dephine Otieno
PROGRAM OFFICER - DATADephine is responsible for monitoring, collating and analyzing organizational data.She previously worked as a statistician at the Data Analytics Unit of Strathmore University.She holds a bachelor's degree in statistics as well as a master's degree in statistics. Dephine has over 4 years’ experience in statistical analysis, business intelligence and reporting. Dephine is enthusiastic about Data Science, Research and Use of evidence for policy making. She enjoys numbers and sees statistics as a crucial aspect of making decisions, as well as scientific and social discoveries, all with the goal of improving the world.
KAREN ARISA
Program Officer - Evidence Use
Karen Arisa
Program Officer - Knowledge & Innovation Exchange (KIX)Karen is responsible for coordinating administrative tasks of the ALiVE program. She is an education research enthusiast. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics and Statistics from the University of Nairobi. Karen strongly believes that every child is entitled to education and should have an opportunity to read, learn and go through schooling effortlessly. She has volunteered in community projects especially those involving children in Meru. Karen enjoys the great company of children.
ENOCK IMANI
Program Officer - Research
Enock Imani
PROGRAM ASSISTANT - RESEARCHEnock Imani is a Program Assistant to the Director of Research. He is an ambitious scholar with lots of interest in the design and management of global and domestic education programming for multilateral development agencies, technology startups and social enterprises with particular emphasis on strategies that translate high-level research into implementation policy. He is Passionate about disruptive initiatives that empower individuals and improve livelihoods. Imani holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education and has great interest in writing and art.
Directorate of Innovations
VIRGINIA NGINDIRU
Director - Innovations for Practice
Virginia Ngindiru
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMSVirginia is in charge of planning, budget management and program reporting. (Previously), she led monitoring, evaluation and learning at Women Educational Researchers of Kenya (WERK). At Voluntary Services Overseas (VSO) Nepal, she mentored, coached and tutored teachers in literacy and numeracy instruction. Virginia has over 10 years’ experience in teacher training and holds a bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in Business Administration (Project Management) at Kenyatta University.
IRENE CHEPNG'ETICH
Senior Program Officer - Innovations
Irene Chepngetich
PROGRAM OFFICERIrene’s key responsibility in CEP is program administration, planning, and field research. Before joining Zizi Afrique, Irene trained, coached, and mentored teachers under the Girls Education Challenge (GEC) program and Daraja Civic Initiative. She is devoted to children’s education and believes that instilling values and giving the right foundation in education is key to making responsible and ethical citizens. She holds a master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Nairobi.
JAMES MBURU
Program Officer - Innovations
James Mburu
PROGRAM OFFICERJames is responsible for coordinating administrative tasks for the Accelerated Learning Program. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education Science from Pwani University. He has previously worked at eMobilis as a Google Digital Skills Trainer. James is passionate about transforming the lives of the young generation. He mentors with Wings to Fly and has volunteered in community activities supporting healthy livelihoods. James has a firm belief that the only way to have a better future for marginalized communities is through improving access to better education. “Little efforts matter.”
Directorate of Advocacy and Partnerships
SAMUEL OTIENO
Director – Advocacy & Partnerships
Samuel Otieno
Director – Advocacy & PartnershipsSamuel Otieno Owino holds a Bachelor of Mass Communications from Washington International University – Delaware USA. He recently completed a Master of Arts Degree in Monitoring and Evaluation at Maseno University, Kenya and is currently finalizing a MBA in Strategic Management and Leadership at the Universidad Catolica De Murcia (UCAM), Spain. He is an International development professional with 14 years of experience in the nonprofit sector in the East and Horn of Africa Region. Mr. Otieno has held lead roles in multi-country projects focused in improving the access to quality education and youth development among other thematic areas. He is also an expert in implementing social change programs, with technical expertise in various areas including project design and management, planning and resourcing, policy engagement and advocacy, partnership building, designing and implementing M&E frameworks and plans, knowledge management and learning, at BBC Media Action, Twaweza East Africa and GESCI.
PURITY NGINA
Regional Manager - ALiVE
Purity Ngina
EVIDENCE MANAGERPurity is responsible for undertaking and delivering a wide range of research projects. Prior to joining Zizi Afrique Foundation, she was a Mathematics lecturer at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Strathmore University. She holds a Ph.D. in Biomathematics from Strathmore University, Kenya. Purity is passionate about Girls/women empowerment and is keen on seeing more girls and women pursuing STEM careers. In her free time, Purity runs a high school mentorship programme aimed at demystifying mathematics and inspiring girls to embrace STEM courses.
MARGARET WAWIRA
Senior Manager - RELI
Margaret Wawira
COUNTRY COORDINATOR - REGIONAL EDUCATION LEARNING INITIATIVE (RELI)Margaret coordinates the Regional Education Learning Initiative (RELI) by facilitating optimal performance, strengthening membership and linking members through their work, supporting thematic groups in learning, and ensuring that RELI Kenya performs efficiently to achieve learning for the children furthest left behind. Margaret has over 8 years’ project management experience and brings to the organization proven capacity to conceptualize and manage issue-based alliances, provide strategic direction in campaigns and project leadership, and catalyze action across key institutions, affected and interested communities in education. She holds an M.A in International Relations from the United States International University. Margaret is passionate about Human Rights and creating impactful change for marginalized children to be able to access quality education and an equal opportunity at a better life in future.
NYAMBURA THIONG'O
RELI Kenya Country Coordinator
NYAMBURA THIONG'O
RELI Kenya Country CoordinatorMs. Nyambura Thiong’o holds a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Studies and Community Development. Currently, she is pursuing a Master of Science Degree in Environmental Health at Kenyatta University. She has 10 years of experience working in the East African Region with a particular focus on Kenya, Uganda & Tanzania, and brings on board a decade of valuable experience to the field of education. Previously, she worked at the African Population and Health Research Center, as Research Officer, and was responsible for managing the urban education project. Nyambura, has a proven track record in project management, an experience which has honed her skills in project planning, execution, and monitoring. She possesses a keen insight into the education policies and political dynamics of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania, which allows her to adeptly synthesize complex educational issues within the context of these countries. She has authored articles, blogs, op-eds and contributed to scientific writing on relevant educational topics, to exemplify her commitment to sharing knowledge and insights, and her desire to contribute to meaningful discourse and solutions in the education space. Nyambura joins Zizi Afrique Foundation as the RELI Kenya Country Coordinator.
ELIZABETH OWITI
Senior Program Officer – Assessment and Advocacy - ALiVE Initiative
Elizabeth Owiti
Senior Program Officer – Assessment and Advocacy - ALiVE InitiativeMs. Owiti holds a Bachelor of Education (Arts) Degree in Mathematics and Business Studies from Kenyatta University and is currently pursuing a Masters Degree in Education Administration and planning, specializing in Education in Emergencies in the University of Nairobi. Her areas of expertise include project cycle management, teacher capacity development, community mobilization and empowerment, advocacy, child protection, communication, mentorship, networking and partnerships management, documentation, leadership and management, as well as Resource Mobilization. She has worked with various organizations, in developing, implementing and managing project activities including planning, coordination, execution, stake holder engagement, monitoring and reporting. With specific focus on advocacy towards promotion of basic education in the informal settlements and ASAL areas. She has also led campaigns on issues related to the provision of quality basic education and trainings for all, and more and better financing for education, both at the local and international space. Ms. Owiti joins Zizi Afrique as a Senior Program Officer – Assessment and Advocacy - ALiVE Initiative. Karibu sana.
BERIA WAWIRA
Senior Program Officer - Advocacy
Beria Wawira
PROCUREMENT OFFICERBeria Wawira is a program officer under whole Youth Development program of Zizi Afrique. She holds an MBA in Strategic Business Management and Human Resource from Daystar University and a Bachelor’s in Purchasing and Supply Management. She delights in working with teams to create value, enable continuity of supply on time, and promote good purchase ethics. Beria has an adventurous spirit with a love for the great outdoors.
DAVID ALELAH OTIENO
Senior Officer - Learning
David Alelah Otieno
ASSESSMENT OFFICER - ASSESSMENT OF LIFE SKILLS AND VALUES IN EAST AFRICA - ALiVEAlelah coordinates assessment activities in the ALiVE program. Previously, he was responsible for planning and coordinating the initiation of research study protocols with Practical Action. He has also worked with Umande Trust as a Monitoring and Evaluation Officer. He is an accomplished researcher with vast experience in conducting surveys and researches on socio-economic matters, monitoring and evaluation of development and livelihoods projects in the East Africa region. Alelah is currently pursuing his Ph.D. with a bias towards Monitoring and Evaluation from the University of Nairobi.
KINJABI KIBIGO
Advocacy and Engagement Officer
KINJABI KIBIGO
Advocacy and Engagement OfficerMr. Kibigo holds a Master’s degree in Communication and Bachelor of Arts degree in Education from Daystar University. Currently, he is pursuing a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) in Communication at the same university. He serves as a panelist on various education programs in the Kenya media space. He is an educator, with over 14 years' experience in basic and Higher Education, and a communications specialist with more than a decade of experience in communication. Previously, he worked as a Kiswahili language curriculum developer and Literacy materials evaluator at K.I.C.D. an adjunct Lecturer in the schools of Language and Communication in various universities in Kenya, schools of language and communication. His firm believe is in a holistic and contextualized approach to tackling educational issues, and thus a strong advocate of collaboration and stakeholder engagement in knowledge management and policy development. He joins Zizi Afrique as the Advocacy and Engagement Officer.
CATHERINE NGATIA
RELI Administrative Officer
CATHERINE NGATIA
RELI Administrative OfficerMs. Ngatia holds a degree in Business Administration and Management with specialization in Procurement and Supply Chain Management from St. Paul’s University. She brings over 10 years experience in business administration and expertise in leading, designing, developing, and implementing processes and policies in the corporate and non-profit space. She also possesses skills in customer service, negotiation and problem solving. Previously, she worked as an Executive Assistant, and an administration head, tasked with providing administrative and programmatic support, data management, planning, coordinating, supervising, developing and maintaining administrative systems in various organizations and institutions. Ms. Ngatia joins Zizi Afrique Foundation as the RELI Administrative Officer. Karibu sana.
GLORIA MUTHONI
Program Assistant
GLORIA MUTHONI
Program Assistant - Action for Life Skills and Values in East Africa (ALiVE)Gloria is a committed Program Assistant at ALiVE Kenya, bringing expertise in procurement and contract management to her role. Her responsibilities span diverse facets, including orchestrating program activities and events, fostering seamless communication and coordination among team members, and meticulously managing project data and reports. Her effectiveness lies in her collaborative spirit, adept communication skills, and a receptive attitude toward diverse perspectives. Guided by core values of honesty, accountability, and respect, Gloria passionately champions these principles in all facets of her work, ensuring a thriving and cohesive program environment
JOSEPHAT LUGENDO
Digital and Administrative Assistant
JOSEPHAT LUGENDO
Digital and Administrative AssistantMr. Lugendo holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communications and Public Relations from University of Kabianga. His experience spans a broad range of communication functions in varied industry segments, including Marketing Communication, Corporate Communication, Digital Marketing, Social Media Management, Graphic Design, and Photography & Videography He is a creative, passionate and business-savvy Journalist, experienced in marketing, communications and public relations. Previously, he worked at K24 TV (Mediamax Network) as a studio technical operator tasked with handling studio cameras during the studio live productions, framing and capturing shots, assembling, preparing and setting up cameras and studio equipment prior to live and recorded programs. He was also attached to the KBC editorial department as a news and programs video editor, tasked with editing stories, design graphics, voice and edit hard news and feature stories for television, radio, and digital platforms in adherence to set editorial policy, rebranding strategy and journalistic ethics. He joins Zizi Afrique as the Digital and Administrative Assistant under the Directorate of Advocacy and Partnerships.
Directorate of Operations
EZEKIEL SIKUTWA
Senior Manager - Operations
Ezekiel Sikutwa
Senior Manager - OperationsMr. Ezekiel Sikutwa holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting, and a Master of Science degree in development finance. Currently, he is pursuing Ph.D. in Business Administration at the University of Nairobi. He holds professional accreditations of Certified Public Accountant (CPAK) and Chartered Development Finance Analyst (CDFA). He brings over 14 years of hands-on experience on a full range of operations and strategic planning in the not-for-profit sector. Mr. Sikutwa is a result-driven professional with proven success in employing best industry practices to ensure value for money by improving efficiency, reducing operating costs, and increasing performance. He has also successfully built and directed multi-disciplinary operations teams to help program teams deliver efficiently deliver projects efficiently on time and within designated resource limits.
DAVID WERE
Manager - Finance
David Were
SENIOR ACCOUNTANTDavid is responsible for overseeing the daily accounting activities and ensuring accurate and timely financial reporting and management accounting is completed. He is in charge of the full accountancy cycle; processing all financial transactions, keeping track of budgets, preparing financial reports and ensuring that the financial procedures are accurately implemented. He formerly worked as an accountant at Moi University. He holds a Bachelor’s in Finance and Banking and is currently pursuing a Masters in the same. David is a Certified Public Accountant, registered with ICPAK and in good standing.
LUCY KARWIGI
Senior Officer - Human Resource and Safety
LUCY KARWIGI
Senior Officer - Human Resource and SafetyLucy Wambui Karwigi holds a Master’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Nairobi, an Undergraduate degree in Accounting from Maseno University and various professional certifications in Human Resources, Leadership, Result-Based Monitoring and Evaluation, Project Management, Training and Development. She is a seasoned Human Resource Expert with over 8 years wealth of experience and a track record of performance turnaround, effective management of staff, development and implementation of business strategies and provision of corporate advice. Lucy is passionate about human capital and always looks forward to participating in developing systems, processes and structures that will improve workforce performance. She has a strong grasp of Human Resource procedures and regulations and a wealth of practical knowledge by keeping at pace with new developments in the regulatory environment Has experience in advising the senior management levels on necessary policy reviews and devising proactive responses to changing socioeconomic conditions, while enhancing employee engagement in pursuit of organizational objectives. Lucy joins Zizi Afrique Foundation as the Human Resource Officer.
FRANCIS NJUGUNA
Senior Officer - Administration and Procurement
Francis Njuguna
PROGRAM OFFICERFrancis is responsible for overseeing administration and procurement. Prior to joining Zizi Afrique, he was in charge of annual national assessment logistics at Uwezo Kenya. Francis is passionate about research on learning interventions. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management from St. Paul’s University, a Higher Diploma in Purchasing and Supplies Management from the Kenya Institute of Management, and a Diploma in Theology from the Presbyterian University.
ELI OSANGO
Accountant
Eli Osango
PROGRAM ACCOUNTANTEli manages various accounting aspects in the organization including reviewing all payment requests to ensure compliance with policy. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Finance from the Catholic University of Eastern Africa and is currently pursuing Certified Public Account (CPA). His commitment to deliver desired organizational objectives has seen Eli incorporate innovative processes and systems in his professional duties.
NELLY KIRIMI
Accountant
Nelly Kirimi
ACCOUNTANTNelly is responsible for the daily accounting activities, management reporting and sub-grants management. She has in-depth knowledge in finance operations with experience in the implementation of financial management systems, writing policies and procedures and implementation of sound internal controls. Before joining ZAF, she worked with Facts Kenya as a finance officer. She also worked as a budget and financial management service Intern with United nations office Nairobi. Nelly has a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance from Multimedia University and is currently working for her MCOM at Strathmore Business School. She is a certified public accountant as well.
VIRGINIA WANGARI
Officer - Administration
Virginia Wangari
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANTVirginia provides program administrative support and assistance for the TVET programs. Prior to joining Zizi Afrique, she was the procurement and admin assistant at Girl Child Network. Virginia is passionate about delivering the highest level of executive administrative support. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Purchasing and Supplies Management from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. Virginia also holds a Diploma in procurement and supplies management (CIPS level 4 & 5).
GEOFFREY OYUGI
Officer - IT and Admin
Geoffrey Oyugi
IT & ADMINAfter completing his Bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University, Geoffrey worked in the financial, inspection-verification and tourism industries over the years as an office administrator contributing to development of best practice, procedures and policies in IT support and delivery. An ardent sports enthusiast, ranging from football to motorsports. "Be kind, Be honest, Stay humble, & never stop learning"
Zizi Afrique envisions a world where all children and youth learn and thrive
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