Phenny joined GFN in May 2024 as the Agricultural Recovery Hub Director based in Kenya where she helps food banks in all regions enhance and scale agricultural recovery efforts.
She is a program specialist with a robust background in agricultural development in East Africa and collaborating with agricultural programs globally. She holds an MSc in International Development from the University of Edinburgh and a BSc in Agricultural Engineering from EARTH University in Costa Rica.
Phenny has substantial experience in leading and managing complex agricultural projects, demonstrated by her tenure as a Field Knowledge Specialist with One Acre Fund. In this role, she spearheaded research and development, field operations, and impact assessments for agronomy projects. Her key initiatives included pilot projects on soil organic matter and lime adoption, and fully scaled projects on optimized maize seed variety recommendations, remote sensing-based planting date guidance, and social behavior change communication for planting compliance.
Phenny is deeply interested in the intersection of agriculture and climate action, with a particular focus on the pivotal role of smallholder farmers in fostering sustainable and resilient food systems. Her dedication to climate action and food security has been recognized by her inclusion in the 30under30 Elevating the Voice of Women in Agriculture(EVWA) Changemaker award, a campaign by the Ban Ki-moon Centre for Global Citizens that recognizes the role of agripreneurs in contributing towards climate action and food security globally.
