Structure & Management

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Structure

Forum for African Women Educationalists – Kenya Chapter (FAWEK)

FAWE Kenya is a membership organization whose members include ministers of education, university vice-chancellors, education policy-makers, researchers, gender specialists and human rights activists.

Our organization structure comprises a Regional Secretariat headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, and National Chapters operating in 33 countries across Africa. Our governance structure comprises an 11-member Board of Directors

Prof. Alice Odingo

Chairperson

Prof. Alice Odingo

Chairperson

Prof. Alice Odingo is an Associate Professor of Geography and Environmental Studies at the University of Nairobi, with research interests spanning agriculture and food security, poverty, energy, climate change, gender, health geography, environment, and sustainability studies. She currently serves as Vice President and Director of the Academic Council on the United Nations System, a Member of Soroptimist International W7, and the Founding Chair of the Centre for Education on Sustainable Development in Africa (CESDA). She is also the National Gender, Environment, and Community Engagement Expert in the GFA Project on Solid Waste Management in Embu Town. At the University of Nairobi, Prof. Odingo is the Chairperson of the Corporate Gender Equality and Inclusion Committee, where she provides strategic leadership in advancing inclusive policies and practices across the institution. In addition, she is actively engaged in international research collaborations, including the CLARE and PALM TREEs (EA) projects, focusing on the social and gender dimensions of climate extremes. Previously, Prof. Odingo served as Director of the Association of Women’s Rights in Development (AWID) (2009–2011) and as Soroptimist International UN Environment Representative (2008–2015), among other global leadership roles.

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Prof. Genevieve Mwayuli

Chairperson Emeritus

Prof. Genevieve Mwayuli

Chairperson Emeritus

Prof. Genevieve Mwayuli is an accomplished academic leader and a passionate advocate for education and gender equity. She was recognized as the 2024 East Africa Women of Excellence Award Winner in the Education Advocate of the Year category for her transformative leadership, dedication to service, and advocacy for educational excellence. Prof. Mwayuli holds a Bachelor of Education (Science) degree from the University of Nairobi and both Master’s and Doctorate degrees in Environmental Aquatic Biology from Moi University, Kenya. With extensive experience in academia, she has served in various leadership roles, including Deputy Principal of Academic and Student Affairs at Garissa University College (2013–2017) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Finance, Administration, and Planning at Great Lakes University of Kisumu (2021–present). She also served at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa from 2002 to 2013. An advocate for sustainable aquaculture and marine science, Prof. Mwayuli has been instrumental in initiatives such as the Development of Aqua-Culture Education in Higher Educational Institutions in Kenya (AQUADEVBUS) and the Kenya Blue Economy Skills Training (KBEST) project, focusing on gender- responsive pedagogy in technical and vocational education and training (TVET). Her commitment to empowering youth, particularly girls, is evident in her leadership roles, including serving on the Executive Board of the Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Africa (2017– 2023) and as Chairperson of FAWE Kenya from 2017- 2025. Her work emphasizes education as a tool for community development and livelihood diversification in Africa. Prof. Mwayuli is a respected contributor to research, innovation, and policy development in marine ecology, natural resource management, and science education. She has actively participated in global conferences and workshops and served as a long-standing member of the Scientific Committee on Research and Publications for the Association of Catholic Universities and Higher Institutes of Africa and Madagascar (ACUHIAM). Additionally, she is affiliated with professional bodies such as the Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA) and the Network of Women in Marine Science. Prof. Mwayuli’s career reflects her unwavering dedication to academic excellence, sustainable development, and the empowerment of marginalized communities through education and advocacy

Dr. Anne Wasike

Vice Chairperson

Dr. Anne Wasike

Vice Chairperson

Dr. Anne Wasike is an experienced educator and curriculum developer with over two decades of expertise in teaching, guidance and counselling, and special needs education. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Psychology from the University of Eldoret and an M.Ed. in Guidance and Counselling from Moi University. She also has qualifications in Braille and Computer Studies acquired during her visual rehabilitation, which have further enriched her perspective on inclusive education. Her career spans teaching and leadership in secondary schools and teacher training colleges, where she served as Deputy Principal, Lecturer, Head of Department, and National Examiner in Geography. Currently, she works at the Kenya Institute of Curriculum Development (KICD) in the Special Programs Department, where she contributes to the design and implementation of inclusive curricula for learners with special needs. Dr. Wasike is also a published researcher and an active member of the Kenya Counseling and Psychological Association (KCPA) and the Kenya Association of Educational Administration and Management (KAEAM). With a strong bias for advancing girls’ education, demonstrated in both her Master’s and Doctoral research, she is deeply committed to leveraging her knowledge, skills, and leadership to propel girls’ and women’s education in Kenya and beyond. Dr. Wasike provides visionary leadership and strategic guidance, ensuring that inclusivity, gender equity, and empowerment remain at the core of educational transformation.

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Catherine Machyo

Treasurer

Catherine Machyo

Treasurer

Catherine is a seasoned educational expert, curriculum specialist, and research consultant with over three decades of⁠ experience across East Africa. A Kenyan citizen, Catherine's experience is marked by a mix of technical, academic, and field expertise, making her a key figure in transformative education and social policy. Her professionall experience includes significant roles such as Curriculum Developer (Quality Aassurance Directorate) at the United States International University – Africa and a long tenure as Lecturer, Researcher, Internal Quality Auditor, and Coordinatorr of the AIDS Control Unit at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa. Catherine’s core strengths lie in participatory research methodologies, capacity development for Civil Society Organizations (CSO’s), gender-responsive initiatives, ethical education practices, and community driven development programs. She has a proven track record in project evaluations (baseline, mid-term, and end-term), curriculum reviews, policy development, and training of trainers in Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Her expertise extends to facilitating multi-stakeholder evaluations and policy dialogue processes and she is fluent in both English and Kiswahili. Academically, Catherine is a PhD candidate in Business Administration at USIU⁠-Africa. She holds an MBA in Strategic Management from the University of Nairobi, an M.Ed. in Curriculum & Instruction from thee University of New Brunswick, Canada, and a B.Ed.. from Kenyatta University. Catherine has contributed significantly to research and publications, addressing critical issues such as those in the competency-based curricula, quality control and assurance in financial management processes in schools, sexual harassment in educational institutions, and participation of young women in politics. As a dedicated professional, Catherine aims to continue contributing to transformative education and social policy in East Africa by applying her expertisee to promote inclusive⁠, gender responsive, and evidence bas⁠ed initiatives. She is committed to empowering educators and strengthening the voices of marginalized populations in policy processes.

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Dr. Margaret Ndanyi

Secretary General

Dr. Margaret Ndanyi

Secretary General

Dr. Margaret Kamonya Emonde Ndanyi is a distinguished leader with a robust career spanning over 35 years in education, public administration, the private sector, and civic and political spaces. She currently serves as the Executive Chairperson of the Vihiga County Women Empowerment Sacco (VICWES), and served as the national Vice Chairperson for the Forum for African Women Educationalists Kenya (FAWE Kenya) up to 2025, Chairperson of FAWE Kenya’s Vihiga Chapter, Director of Avene Enterprises, and Chairperson of the Boards of Management for Bugina and Tuloi Secondary Schools. An educationalist by background, Dr. Ndanyi brings a wealth of experience from her 18-year tenure as a Senior Quality Assurance and Standards Officer in Kenya's Ministry of Education, where she began as an Inspector of Schools. In this role, she excelled in public affairs management, fieldwork, and change management, contributing significantly to the enhancement of educational standards. Prior to her work in public administration, Dr. Ndanyi dedicated 14 years to teaching at renowned institutions, including Solian Girls High School, Kenya High School, and Kaimosi Teachers Training College. Throughout her teaching career, she demonstrated exceptional leadership, holding various administrative positions and inspiring excellence in education. Dr. Ndanyi’s multifaceted leadership roles reflect her commitment to empowering communities and fostering educational development. Her contributions to women’s empowerment through VICWES and FAWE Kenya underscore her dedication to creating opportunities for growth and inclusion. With a profound impact on education and civic engagement, Dr. Margaret Kamonya Emonde Ndanyi continues to champion transformative initiatives that empower individuals and communities, leaving a legacy in every sphere she touches.

Alice Kwacha

Assistant Secretary General

Alice Kwacha

Assistant Secretary General

Alice Kwacha, a retired Principal, served 33 years under Teachers Service Commission, rising from Assistant Teacher to Principal. She was the pioneer Principal of Ruai Girls High School, Nairobi, initially a mixed day school. Her achievements include: Lobbying for separation of boys and girls. Introducing boarding, increasing student population. Establishing Tuseme Club, enhancing performance and retention. Engaging stakeholders in school development. In academics, Alice has a Bachelor of Arts degree, with Honours in Sociology from Panjab University, India. She holds Postgraduate Diploma in Education from The University of Nairobi. Madam has a Diploma in Education Management, from Kenya Education Management Institute. Alice spearheaded the establishment of FAWEK Siaya Branch, where she is current Executive Chairperson. Under her leadership, networking and visibility of FAWEK through partnerships with county government and stakeholders is evident. She is a member of Technical Working Group in Siaya County. She served as Assistant Secretary and Secretary General, representing FAWEK in local and regional forums: GRP TOT Trainings (Malawi, Zambia). Tuseme Training (Dar es Salaam). Member of FAWEK Task Force (2009). She speaks for FAWEK on issues affecting girls, women and children on local media. At her Church, being the assistant secretary to her small Christian community, she is a member of the Paris council, a mentor to the youths and women. She chairs Visionary Women Self-help Group, mentoring women in economic empowerment. Alice is passionate about girls and women empowerment. QUOTES: 1.Mentor a girl to excel in education and training for a better future.” 2. Lobby for gender parity in education and training to enhance girls and women achievement.” 3. Little girls with dreams become women with vision. Nurture them.”

Tabitha Njeri

Organizing Secretary

Tabitha Njeri

Organizing Secretary

Tabitha Njeri is a dedicated Public Policy and Administration specialist with a strong background in policy analysis, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement. She is highly skilled in conducting research, analyzing data, and developing innovative solutions to complex policy challenges, with a focus on promoting equitable and effective public policies. Tabitha has extensive experience in leadership and administration, having held key roles such as Head of Customer Service and Head Teller at Equity Bank, where she enhanced customer experience and optimized banking operations. She has also overseen construction projects in her self-employment role, managing budgets, safety compliance, and team coordination. Her leadership extends to governance roles, including serving as the Organizing Secretary for the Forum for African Women Educationalists - Kenya Chapter and Chairperson of the Development and Environmental Conservation Committee at the Ewaso Ngiro South Development Authority. She is an active board member for several schools, contributing to education and community development. Ms. Tabitha’s educational foundation includes a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Sociology from Kenyatta University and ongoing postgraduate studies in Public Policy and Administration. She has completed numerous leadership and governance training courses,s including the Strategic Leadership Development Program and corporate governance certifications. Fluent in English and Swahili, she brings a holistic approach to public policy, leveraging her diverse expertise to drive impactful change for communities and organizations. Her work reflects a commitment to societal betterment, stakeholder collaboration, and effective governance.

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Esther Mwangi

Assistant Organizing Secretary

Esther Mwangi

Assistant Organizing Secretary

Njeri Mwangi is a seasoned thought leader on Human Rights, Social Justice, Peace, and Gender, and a firm champion of women’s rights as equal human rights. As an educationalist, she supports gender equality through community voice and transformation, while advancing social justice causes through civil society initiatives and community philanthropy. Her extensive experience spans human rights advocacy, movement building, community organizing, peacebuilding, global governance, and digital rights. Trained in Communications and Public Policy, Njeri is also an alumna of several prestigious fellowships and institutes. She is passionate about decolonizing aid and devolved philanthropy, with a strong belief in resourcing and funding grassroots women’s organizations. Njeri served as Assistant Organizing Secretary, where she played a pivotal role in mobilizing, coordinating, and strengthening strategic partnerships and alliances that drive investment in social justice. She also leads a feminist organization working within human rights–focused networks and coordinates the End Femicide Movement in Nyeri, amplifying grassroots voices against gender-based violence. Beyond her professional work, Njeri enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures.

Boaz Waruku

Co-opted Member

Boaz Waruku

Co-opted Member

Mr. Boaz Waruku is a committed civil rights and social justice activist dedicated to advancing Rule of Law, Democracy, Governance, Accountability, and Public Participation. With a focus on education advocacy, policy engagement, and capacity development, he has led impactful initiatives that promote sustainable livelihoods and equity. His leadership spans roles such as Chairperson of URAIA Trust and the Constitution and Reform Education Consortium (CRE-CO), Regional Coordinator for ANCEFA, and Policy Advisor for the Elimu Bora Working Group. Boaz has significantly contributed to education reforms, governance, and civic engagement at local, regional, and global levels, including with the Global Partnership for Education (GPE). Academically, Boaz holds an LL.B. from Daystar University, an Executive Master of Public Policy from Kenyatta University, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management from the University of Nairobi. He continues to champion education equity, civil rights, and good governance for an inclusive society

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Dr. Maurice Odondo

Co-opted Member

Dr. Maurice Odondo

Co-opted Member

Dr. Odondo is the Chief Executive Officer of the Kenya Education Management Institute (KEMI), a State Corporation under the Ministry of Education mandated to provide capacity building services for education stakeholders. Through strategic collaborations with national and international partners, the Institute offers leadership training, undertakes research, and provides consultancy services to strengthen education systems in Kenya and beyond. Before his appointment as CEO, Dr. Odondo served as Deputy Director of Training, Research, and Consultancy Services at KEMI, and earlier as Deputy Director of Corporate Services and Head of the School of Management Division. He was also the Member Representative (MR) for Quality Management Systems of the Institute. An accomplished educator with over 25 years of experience, Dr. Odondo has contributed to teaching and leadership in secondary schools, facilitated in-service training for education leaders, and lectured at the University of Nairobi, Moi University, and Kenya Methodist University. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Arts), an MBA, and a PhD in Business Administration. Dr. Odondo is a member of the Kenya Association for Public Administration and Management (KAPAM), a renowned trainer in leadership and governance, and an author of educational leadership and management books. He has also published in academic journals and presented papers at national and international conferences. As a co-opted member, Dr. Odondo brings invaluable expertise in leadership, governance, and institutional strengthening, championing the provision of quality, relevant, and inclusive education for all.

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Annah Konuche

Co-opted Member

Annah Konuche

Co-opted Member

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Jeanette Valarie Nyanjom

Chief Executive Officer

Jeanette Valarie Nyanjom

Chief Executive Officer

Jeanette Valarie Nyanjom is a dynamic and strategic development leader with a decade of experience spanning education, governance, health, and gender advocacy. She currently serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Forum for African Women Educationalists – Kenya (FAWEK), where she provides visionary leadership to advance girls’ education, gender equity, and inclusive development nationally. Jeanette has an extensive track record in program management, policy development, and high-level stakeholder engagement, having previously led impactful initiatives at Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS), AMREF Health Africa, and the Kenya Legal and Ethical Issues Network (KELIN). She has designed and managed multi-million-dollar programs, influenced national and regional policy discourse, and forged strong partnerships with governments, civil society, academia, and donors. She is recognized for her expertise in evidence-based program design, governance, and resource mobilization, as well as her ability to build strong leadership teams and strengthen institutional capacity. Her leadership has contributed to shaping Kenya’s education and gender agenda, including authoring national situational analyses on teenage pregnancies, advancing gender-responsive pedagogy, and co-leading strategic planning processes for youth political caucuses and civil society movements. She holds a Master of Arts in International Relations (Development Studies) from the United States International University–Africa and a Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy (with IT) from Maseno University. Jeanette is deeply committed to advancing gender equality, inclusive education, and governance systems that leave no girl behind.

Leadership &Management

The governing body of FAWEK is the General Assembly of Members which elects an Executive Committee constituted by nine (9) members referred to as Board of Directors that provides policy guidance and oversight. The current Board of Directors comprise of nine (9) Women and two (2) men, led by Prof. Alice Odingo, PhD, as the chairperson.

Under the Board of Directors is the National Secretariat with Headquarters in Nairobi, and vested the duty of running FAWEK day-to-day operations. The National Secretariat is headed by the Chief Executive Officer, who also coordinates all the regions. The current CEO is Jeanette Valarie Nyanjom, who has extensive experience in program management across diverse industries, She excels in coordinating and supervising activities to achieve objectives efficiently. Her proficiency in monitoring and evaluating outcomes enables strategic decision-making for program effectiveness.

Jeanette is a Governance practitioner with over 6 years of NGO, private, and public sector experience, where she specialized in local governance, policy analysis, and evidence-based programming. Jeanette is so passionate about community engagement and social reforms, She leverage a rights-based approach to drive impactful initiatives, combining program management skills with governance expertise to foster positive change and address societal challenges effectively.

FAWEK currently has fulltime staff, volunteers and interns all serving in different project and in the regions. The National Secretariat is supported by a pool of associate consultants, most of who are among the 807 members spread in at least 20 counties in Kenya. Zonal Focal Persons implements FAWEK’s mandate at local level (in their respective zones). The members and associate consultants have varied technical expertise in different fields, including Education, Environment, Governance, Gender & Development, Research, Monitoring and Evaluation, Reproductive Health and Nutrition, Human Rights, organizational capacity assessment and development, peace and conflict management.

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What We Do?

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Structure & Management

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