Faces of the Hub

bluecarb _hub_training3

During the Blue Carbon Kenya Hub training held at the KMFRI offices in Mombasa on 6–7 October 2025, participants strengthened their skills in using the Hub, improved their communication capacity, and explored creative approaches to storytelling. One of the most enjoyable sessions focused on how to take a strong professional profile photo capturing both confidence and connection.

These portraits represent the people behind the Hub: researchers, communicators, and community champions working together to advance blue carbon science and action along Kenya’s coast.

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Senior Records Officer

Denis Kipkoech

ICT Officer

Polycarp Atunga

Amina Hamza profile picture
Mangrove Ecologist

Amina Hamza

ICT

Anthony Yiapan

Geospatial engineer

Patricia

Senior ICT Officer

Ms Faith Nicolyn Achieng Gwada

ICT Member

George Agwata

Research Intern

Sarah Cheku

Blue Carbon Ecologist

Kipkorir Sigi Lang’at

Senior ICT Officer (ERP Consultant)

Peter Mutuku

Research Scientist

Fredrick Mungai

Quality and AI Champion
Principal ICT Officer and Quality Expert

Ednah Nyakerario Onkundi

Assistant Director-Information and Knowledge Management

Joan Karanja

Creative Lead

Rob Barnes

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Senior Records Officer

Denis Kipkoech

A results-driven Records Management specialist with practical expertise in policy formulation, electronic records systems implementation, and institutional digital transformation. Experienced in managing ERP modules, developing records retention schedules, and creating file inventory databases to support efficient information governance. Demonstrated ability to lead staff trainings, conduct comprehensive records audits, and champion structured archiving initiatives. Equipped with certifications in project management, data analysis, cybersecurity, and research, bringing a well-rounded skill set to strengthen compliance, accessibility, and operational efficiency across the records lifecycle

ICT Officer

Polycarp Atunga

I’m an ICT expert in network administration and infrastructure management

Mangrove Ecologist

Amina Hamza

I am an accomplished marine scientist with over 15 years of professional experience in marine and coastal resource management, specialising in mangrove ecosystems and community-led conservation initiatives. I hold a PhD in Science and Technology from Bournemouth University (2022), where I explored changes in mangrove forests and their implications on community livelihoods and resource governance in Kenya. This work advanced my expertise in integrating scientific research with community-based management practices to address complex ocean challenges

ICT

Anthony Yiapan

Anthony is a methodical, adaptable, and highly collaborative, with my skills and using tools that are both elegant and functional, I fully participate hands-on expertise and a methodical, collaborative mindset to every project as an IT professional.

Geospatial engineer

Patricia

Open source enthusiast

Senior ICT Officer

Ms Faith Nicolyn Achieng Gwada

I am an ICT Officer at the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), where I support marine and coastal research through technology, data systems, and digital innovation. My work focuses on strengthening data management, web platforms, and spatial information systems that promote evidence-based decision-making for sustainable ocean and coastal resource management.

I work closely with the GIS and Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) teams to enhance data collection, analysis, and visualization using tools such as KoboToolbox and web-based data portals. I also manage the KMFRI and MSP websites and support other digital initiatives that advance Kenya’s Blue Economy and Blue Carbon objectives.

Beyond my technical responsibilities, I serve in several institutional committees including Risk Management, Data Protection, Knowledge Management, ISO Secretariat, and the Performance Contract Secretariat. I have received training in Quality Management Systems (QMS), Internal Auditing, Data Protection, and Supervisory and Senior Management skills.

I am passionate about leveraging ICT to promote environmental sustainability and digital transformation within the marine and fisheries sector. I am currently pursuing a Master of Science in ICT to deepen my knowledge and strengthen the link between technology, research, and sustainable development.

ICT Member

George Agwata

Research Intern

Sarah Cheku

I am currently focusing on mangrove restoration as nature nature-based solution for climate mitigation and biodiversity resilience

Blue Carbon Ecologist

Kipkorir Sigi Lang’at

I am an ecologist and conservation practitioner with experience in research in coastal and marine ecosystems, focusing particularly on the blue carbon ecosystems & their role in climate change mitigation and adaptation, biodiversity conservation & livelihood support.

Senior ICT Officer (ERP Consultant)

Peter Mutuku

Peter Savali Mutuku is a Senior ICT Officer and ERP Consultant at the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute (KMFRI), where he leads strategic initiatives to optimize enterprise resource planning systems. With a methodical approach to financial data reconciliation and IPSAS compliance, he provides expert technical support across fixed asset management, supplier payments, payroll integration, and financial reporting. Peter is known for his precision, collaborative spirit, and commitment to enhancing institutional efficiency through innovative ICT solutions.

Research Scientist

Fredrick Mungai

I am a research scientist working with Kenya marine and fisheries Research Institute as a Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing (RS) expert whose extensive training has covered GIS, RS, geomorphology, hydrology, geology, applied Research methods and its application in coastal and marine conservation.

Principal ICT Officer and Quality Expert

Ednah Nyakerario Onkundi

Ednah is a visionary, faith driven professional with a dynamic blend of creativity, compassion, and technological expertise. With a strong foundation in ICT and artificial intelligence, she actively contributes to innovation within research hubs, driving transformative solutions that bridge technology and human-centered impact. Her work reflects a deep commitment to leveraging emerging technologies to solve real-world problems, foster collaboration, and inspire progress across communities.

As a passionate advocate for AI-powered innovation, Ednah excels in integrating digital tools into research ecosystems, enhancing data-driven decision-making, streamlining processes, and nurturing a culture of continual learning. Her leadership in ICT initiatives is marked by strategic thinking, ethical grounding, and a flair for translating complex systems into accessible, empowering solutions.

Beyond her technical acumen, Ednah is celebrated for her nurturing spirit and joyful approach to life. She infuses every project with intentionality, gratitude, and a deep sense of purpose, especially when celebrating family milestones or mentoring others. Her ability to personalize experiences, whether through creative messaging or tech-enhanced storytelling, makes her a cherished collaborator in both professional and personal spheres.

Assistant Director-Information and Knowledge Management

Joan Karanja

Creative Lead

Rob Barnes

I am driven by the belief that good communication does more than inform. It builds connection, inspires trust and invites change. Over the past two decades at GRID-Arendal, I have worked across projects, platforms and disciplines to help translate environmental knowledge into tools people can understand, feel and use. Whether through video, design, facilitation or strategy, I help teams communicate with purpose. I believe that creativity should serve clarity, and that even the most technical ideas deserve a human voice.