I have extensive management and technical experience of biotechnology and biosafety has been acquired in various positions held in the public sector and non-governmental organisations (NGO’s), both locally and regionally. Over the years, work exposure and involvement has included programme and project management; development, implementation, monitoring, enforcement and review of policies and legislation. Substantial experience has also been gained on the coordination and country implementation of some multilateral United Nations Conventions, and Protocols. Posses technical knowledge of and experience in the operational environment of large multi-dimensional organisations at management level coupled by a sound understanding of organizational development, business administration and leadership, institutional mechanisms and governance, among others.

I have coordinated corporate sponsorships, social responsibility and investment programmes including grant making and proposal writing functions with multilateral donor agencies and the private sector and non governmental organisations (NGO’s). I am an individual who is well conversant with biotechnology and Biosafety issues, the ever pressing challenges and needs sub Saharan Africa and the SADC region in particular. Acquired practical involvement in sustainable livelihood and energy strategies and implemented Biosafety policies on behalf of the South African government. Further experience has been obtained in international and intergovernmental relations and negotiations at SADC, Africa and at the United Nations levels. I have developed an aptitude in science communication and ability to apply knowledge and problem solving skills within a team to stimulate and create new knowledge and technology innovation.

My experience working in the NGO sector for over eight years has given me excellent negotiation and lobbying skills. I have been involved in the shaping of regional Biosafety policies since 1996, when the first ever Biosafety course for regulators was conducted. I have also participated in a number of regional initiatives under the regional UNEP-GEF Programme . I have also coordinated a number of regional programmes which included a five country project on biotechnology communication funded by the Rockefeller Foundation. More recently I have been part of the South African Government negotiation teams for the Convention on Biological Diversity. This has required excellent oral and written communication skills. Open-ended Online Expert Forum on RA&RM Zimbabwe