Ignatius Kahiu (He / Him)

Bio for Dr. Ignatius Gathigi Kahiu Dr. Kahiu is a senior leader who has been working to improve inclusive and sustainable growth in Kenya and East Africa for more than three decades. For the last 18 years, he has demonstrated sound leadership, management, and technical experience, overseeing donor-funded programs that improve economic and social well-being, natural resource management, livestock productivity, value chains, and food security. This includes four years working as a Chief of Party for USDA / USG-funded programming valued at up to $ 20 million. In his work, he has developed strong relationships with communities, the government, and the private sector, as well as with USDA and USAID. As Chief of Party of the Kenya Semi-Arid Livestock Enhancement Support (K-SALES) program, he has kept the program on track, exceeding all objectives. Dr. Kahiu is a veterinarian by training, and he has a solid understanding of pastoralist livestock production systems, having worked and lived in ASAL areas. All of the programs he has managed have improved livestock, agricultural development, and market systems, including advancements in support services and the enabling environment. Dr. Kahiu holds an MSc. in Organizational Development. He is an active member of a number of veterinary professional associations and has had the privilege to represent Africa as a Vice President in the World Veterinary Association and has been an active member in a knowledge management and research think tank within the Horn of Africa regional frameworks to end drought emergencies in the Horn of Africa. Dr. Kahiu professional prowess has had a recent recognition by the Government of Kenya, and he has been appointed as a member of the board of directors in the New Kenya Cooperative Creameries (NKCC) a state corporation (the second largest milk processor in Kenya) for three years (September 2018 to 2021) and as the Chairman of the NKCC Board of Directors Technical Committee which oversees the raw milk supply in the factories, performance of factory production operations, quality assurance and engineering departments. In May 2019, Ignatius was promoted to the Chairmanship of the New KCC Board of Directors for the next three years. From February 2022 to February 2024, Dr. Kahiu was appointed as the Chairman of the Kenya Dairy Board. Dr. Kahiu is also a member of the Board of Directors of ASNET (Agricultural Sector Network), an affiliate of KEPSA (Kenya Private Sector Alliance), and the chair of its Implementation, monitoring and Learning Committee.