RITAH NAMAYANJA

Ritah is a committed and talented professional with over five years of experience in the finance and accounting industry. Her self-driven nature has propelled her career forward, allowing her to develop a comprehensive skill set in financial management and analysis.

A graduate of Uganda Martyrs University Nkozi, Ritah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Management, with a specialization in Finance and Accounting. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development is evident in her current pursuit of a Master’s degree in Finance and Accounting, which promises to further enhance her expertise in the field.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Ritah is also an entrepreneur at heart. She firmly believes in the power of creativity and innovation as catalysts for community development and growth. This entrepreneurial spirit complements her financial acumen, enabling her to approach business challenges with a unique perspective that balances fiscal responsibility with innovative thinking.

Ritah’s combination of academic knowledge, practical experience, and entrepreneurial mindset positions her as a valuable asset in both corporate and community settings. Her dedication to personal growth and community development showcases her potential as a future leader in the finance industry and beyond.

DEBORAH NAMUGENYI

Deborah Namugenyi is a dedicated educator and community empowerment advocate, focusing on education, gender equality, and sustainable livelihoods to drive positive change. As a program coordinator and manager at Asante Africa Foundation, she spearheaded transformative initiatives and cultivated impactful partnerships.

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from Makerere University, Deborah furthered her expertise with Post Graduate Diplomas in Gender and Local Economic Development (Makerere University) and Early Childhood Development and Education (Ndejje University). Her passion for early childhood education led her to co-found and serve as Headteacher of both Busega Martyrs’ Kindergarten and Nazareth Kindergarten. Currently, she continues her involvement as a board member at Busega Martyrs’ Kindergarten.

Deborah’s entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond education, as she manages ventures in farming and bakery, demonstrating her commitment to sustainable community development.

GEOFFREY KASANGAKI

Geoffrey is a globally minded development leader passionate about local last mile communities, education, climate and youth.  His career reflects a rare balance of strategic vision, pragmatic execution and community purpose. As CEO of Asante Africa Foundation, he leads with a clear commitment to turning individual and community impact into measurable progress across climate action, youth skills development and employability, economic development and leadership and entrepreneurship.

His leadership stands out for the scale and complexity of the work he oversees. With responsibility for a portfolio of impactful programs and projects across the organization in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and the USA and teams of professionals in each of the countries he has positioned Asante Africa Foundation as an enterprise that addresses and delivers future ready youth equipped with the skills to thrive in the global economy through locally grounded solutions in partnership with governments, funders, academia and the private sector.

What makes his profile especially compelling is the way he bridges program execution and results. Geoffrey has built a career around aligning strategy with impact, using collaboration as a strategy to address some of Africa’s most pressing challenges while keeping local context at the center of every intervention. His approach reflects a leader who understands that sustainable development is not only about ambition but also about listening, partnerships and a disciplined, systemic implementation.

His background across the East Africa region and Global experience adds depth to his leadership perspective. From managing programs to emergency responses to strengthening partnerships with governments, donors and communities of operation, he has consistently demonstrated the ability to lead in complex environments and deliver outcomes that endure. He co-founded the Asante Africa Foundation Uganda chapter and previously served as the Country Director overseeing impactful programs and projects. Geoffrey celebrates having successfully worked in designing and implementing adolescents and youth climate, educational and skills development projects in Uganda rural schools and communities in partnership with the government of Uganda. He led the geographical growth of the organization to deepen the impact and quality of Programs that advance skills building, climate action, livelihood, gender equality, girl empowerment through skills building and education. During the Covid 19 pandemic he led a team that innovated community Learning groups which were sustained for nearly two (2) years when schools were closed in Uganda and kept adolescents and youth on their path for education and safety in their communities where they lived. These groups currently serve as alternative education and skills development pathways for out of school youth. He has also previously served as the Deputy CEO Strategic Program Development and Impact at Asante Africa Foundation.

His academic achievements include an MBA from Uganda Christian University, a Bachelor of Information Systems from Makerere University, an international diploma in Leadership and Management from Luxury Academy London, and an international certification in Monitoring and Evaluation from the International Training Centre of the International Labor Organization in Turin, Italy. Committed to professional growth, he is currently pursuing an Executive MBA in Strategic Leadership at the Quantic School of Business and Technology in Washington.

Outside of his professional endeavors, he is a Gratitude Network Fellow and a Rotarian. He is a coffee farmer, dedicated to sustainable agriculture practices and values his role as a family man, finding balance between his personal and professional life.

Geoffrey’s career reflects a belief that cooperation is not merely a moral ideal but an investment in shared development, stability, resilience and prosperity.

Samuel is a dedicated social worker and teacher with roots in a humble rural background. His passion for empowering marginalized youth and families has led him to develop and implement innovative programs that integrate leadership, vocational training, mentorship, entrepreneurship education, and life skills. These initiatives have fostered impactful partnerships between schools, local businesses, and community organizations.

Known for his excellent interpersonal skills, Samuel excels as a communicator, counselor, mentor, and role model for many young people. He is fluent in Luganda and English, with a growing proficiency in Swahili, Runyoro-Rutooro, and Runyakitala.

Samuel’s academic achievements include a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Science from Makerere University, complemented by a certificate in Communication with Confidence and Life Coaching/Mentoring from the College of Health Science at Makerere University. He also holds a Diploma in Project Planning and Management and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Social Administration from Nkumba University. Currently, he is pursuing a Master’s degree in Social Work at Bugema University.

In addition to his educational pursuits, Samuel serves his community in multiple capacities. He works with the Buganda Kingdom as the Youth Leader in Ssingo County, holds the position of Charter President for the Rotaract Club of Kassanda, and serves as the Principal of Ssingo Vocational Training Center in Kassanda. Through these roles, Samuel continues to drive positive change and empower the next generation of community leaders.

Nyabongo Wilson is a seasoned Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) professional with three years of experience in project monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning. His academic credentials include a Master’s degree and a Postgraduate Diploma in Monitoring and Evaluation from Nkumba University, underpinning his expertise in the field. Wilson’s educational background is further enriched by a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Makerere University, complemented by certificates in Monitoring and Evaluation, Capital Markets, and Guidance and Counseling from various institutions.

Wilson’s professional skill set is comprehensive, encompassing proficiency in data management tools, capacity building, implementation of M&E policies and plans, data analysis, and report writing. He excels in delivering high-quality outputs that align with organizational goals, demonstrating his ability as an organized multitasker with strong communication and teamwork skills. His problem-solving aptitude, coupled with leadership and organizational abilities, enables him to build and maintain robust internal and external relationships effectively.

Beyond his professional pursuits in M&E, Wilson is a passionate entrepreneur and farmer. This diverse range of interests and skills showcases his adaptability and holistic approach to personal and professional development. Wilson’s unique combination of academic knowledge, practical experience, and entrepreneurial spirit positions him as a valuable asset in both project management and community development contexts.

Mary Karungi

Damalie Tebajjukira

Damalie Tebajjukira is a development practitioner and partnership-building professional with a strong interest in education, youth empowerment, gender equality, and support for vulnerable communities. At Asante Africa Foundation Uganda, she supports resource mobilisation, strategic communications, proposal development, and stakeholder engagement to advance opportunities for underserved young people. She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Monash University and a Master of Arts in Development Studies from University of the Witwatersrand, which strengthen her work in programme design, advocacy and inclusive development. Damalie also serves on the board of Refugee Link, reflecting her commitment to supporting vulnerable groups, and is a Youth Advisory Council Member for AUDA-NEPAD.

Her work is driven by a passion for creating practical pathways that enable young people and marginalized communities to access education, skills and sustainable opportunities. In her spare time, Damalie enjoys reading, exploring different cuisines and travelling.

Eric Tumusiime

Eric Tumusiime is a passionate and hardworking young professional from Kyenjojo District, Uganda. He is a proud DEEP Alumni who joined the program in 2023, where he gained valuable digital and computer literacy skills. Through determination and continuous learning, he has grown both personally and professionally, Eric is currently employed as a result of the skills and experience acquired. He is committed to community service, youth empowerment, and using technology to create positive change in society.

In his spare time, Eric enjoys traveling and sports.

HARRIET NALUMANSI

Harriet is a dedicated social worker and public administration professional committed to community empowerment and social change. Her passion for creating lasting impact in rural communities drives her work with Asante Africa Foundation, where she provides mentorship and guidance in education and empowerment programs while also handling various administrative responsibilities.

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and Social Administration and a Diploma in Public Administration from Nkumba University, Harriet brings a strong foundation to her community-driven initiatives. Her previous experience includes volunteering with the National Forestry Authority in collaborative forest management, fostering partnerships between the organization and local communities.

As a social work professional, Harriet firmly believes in the power of community-driven change, problem-solving, social justice, and empowerment. She is committed to continuous learning and applying her skills and experience to support vulnerable populations.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Harriet enjoys music, football, and community service. She is multilingual and has a keen interest in farming and poultry, further demonstrating her commitment to sustainable community development.

Fahimah Lukooya

Fahimah, a bright young professional who holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Public Administration. She spent two and a half years working at Asante Africa, first as a DEEP intern, then as a volunteer for Enterprise Challenge, and a volunteer for the Marketing and Communications team. Currently, Fahimah is the Regional Administration and Alumni Engagement Youth Mentor for the Buganda region-Kassanda, Uganda. Fatimah is passionate about her work with the youth and enjoys being a mentor.

When Fahimah has free time, she enjoys watching detective films, crime thrillers and legal courtroom dramas.

Christopher is a public health expert, currently fulfilling the role of Director of Programmes at Afya na Haki (www.afyanahaki.org) an African research and training institute that uses Africentric approaches to generate knowledge and enhance advocacy capacities in the areas of Health, Human Rights and Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR).

Over the span of more than fifteen years, Christopher has cultivated a wealth of experience in programme development, specializing in Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), HIV/AIDS and Harm Reduction. His extensive experience encompasses collaborations with a diverse array of stakeholders, including civil society organizations (CSOs), academic institutions, grassroots activists, and various community members. Christopher’s impressive expertise allows him to foster meaningful engagement with individuals and groups alike, facilitating organizational growth and resource mobilization at both national and international levels.

Lamech has a University Degree in Development Studies, and Postgraduate Diploma in Microfinance. He is an NGO professional with over 20 years of experience in various areas of the industry including, Education, Social Development, Microfinance, and Volunteer management.  He has skills in Research, Project Management, Training, Teamwork and Team building.

Lamech is a self-motivated worker with a passion for Capacity Building and International Community Development.  Hi committed to contributing his strengths in order to make the world a more equitable and just place.

Jacqueline Namusalisi has a Master’s of Science Degree in Food Science and Technology from the University of Nairobi, a Bachelors Degree and Diploma in Food Processing Technology from Kyambogo University, and is an Alumni of University of Sydney, MS-Training Center for Development Co-operation Arusha, Tanzania and Strathmore University, Kenya.

She has wide experience in food manufacturing, agriculture research, and NGO work and has volunteered as the In-Country representative for the Albert Baker Fund for 6 years. She is currently a consultant at the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Centre in Nairobi and a Director at Grassroot Women Development Organisation in Uganda, as well as, a Pan-African Council member- Australian Award Women in Leadership.

She has vast experience in working with young people is passionate about nurturing them through their career development and empowering women to become financially independent. Her provides her with a solid foundation as a disciplinarian and Mentor.

She enjoys writing and learning foreign languages during her free time.

Ritah is the Country Director for Action Against Hunger – USA in Uganda since March 2023. Ritah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration – Accounting major, ACCA, Masters in business administration from Heriot Watt University and is currently pursuing another Master of Leadership in Development from Manchester University, UK and the University of Melbourne, Australia. She is a seasoned development worker and practitioner with experience spanning over a decade across several sectors including Finance/Accounting and operations, Nutrition and Health, Education, Food security and Livelihoods, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene and climate programming. Before joining Action Against Hunger (ACF), Ritah worked with World Vision and Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation. Her areas of focus include Leadership development, strategic management, gender empowerment, Advocacy, policy, and programs implementation. As a country Director, Ritah has been engaged not only in provision of strategic guidance to the country office but also in strategic advocacy for nutrition, health, education, Water, sanitation, and Hygiene and food security related policy frameworks at local, national, and international platforms.

Olivia Talemwa Nalugwa is Program Manager of Uganda Tuberculosis Implementation Research Consortium at Makerere University College of Health Sciences. She has Master’s degrees in Global Health and Business Administration, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Project Planning and Management.

Michael B. Mutagana holds a Masters Degree in Business Administration (Finance) of Makerere University and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance of Kyambogo University. He is a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) of the United Kingdom. He has over 30 years’ experience in Financial Management and Administration.

He has worked in various organizations including in business, academia and public sectors.  Michael’s career has been built on a firm foundation of continuous search for knowledge and a value of ethical levels. Michael is currently Manager at Finance & Administration Professional Engineering Consultants Group

Ronald is a highly motivated and proactive Advocate of the High Court of Uganda and all subordinate Courts of Judicature of the Republic of Uganda, and a member of the Uganda Law Society. He is also a member of the East Africa Law Society, an Associate Partner at Kiiza Kwanza Advocates & Solicitors, and is an External Advocate for Hoima District Local Government. He is currently serving as a Director and a Board. Member of Rise & Company Limited. Ronald is a graduate of Makerere University where he earned a Bachelors of Law Degree. He also received a Diploma in Legal Practice from the Law Development Centre. He is a Senior Advocates partner at M/S Barungi Baingana & Co.