Dr. Yoksa Mshelia is a Research Fellow at the African Research and Impact Network (ARIN) and holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Planning and Management from Kenyatta University, sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD). His research focuses on climate change, urban planning, and ecological modeling, with expertise in GIS, GeoAI and remote sensing. In his work, Mshelia employs machine learning techniques to model land cover changes, urban heat islands, and their ecological impacts, with the goal of informing sustainable development policies and enhancing urban resilience in rapidly growing cities.

Mshelia previously worked as a Research Assistant with the Australian National University (ANU), where he conducted an inventory study on Urban Climate Governance in Lagos (Nigeria) and Dar es Salaam (Tanzania). He holds a Master’s in Environmental Planning and Management from Kenyatta University and a Bachelor’s in Environmental Biology from the University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

Jerry Ariel is an esteemed member of the Africa Research and Impact Network (ARIN), currently serving as an Intern with a focus on Climate Change and Sustainable Development. With a robust background in Development Studies, Jerry brings a unique perspective to his work, intertwining sociological theories with empirical research methodologies to address the complex challenges posed by climate change, particularly in underdeveloped and developing countries.

Driven by a fervent interest in understanding the interplay between human societies and environmental dynamics, Jerry’s passion lies in unravelling the intricate connections between social structures, economic systems, and environmental sustainability. Leveraging his expertise in sociological analysis, he actively contributes to ARIN’s mission of advancing knowledge and promoting sustainable solutions for a rapidly changing world.

Within the ARIN team, Jerry plays a pivotal role in supporting research initiatives aimed at elucidating the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities, assessing adaptation strategies, and exploring avenues for sustainable development. His keen analytical skills and deep understanding of development dynamics enables him to navigate complex data landscapes, uncovering actionable insights to inform policy and practice. Additionally, Jerry has a keen interest in writing articles, further enhancing ARIN’s dissemination of knowledge and promoting dialogue on pressing environmental issues.

My name is Ann Nabangala Obae, a Principal Programme Officer Climate Change at  the Water Sector Trust Fund, a parastatal under the Ministry of Water, Sanitation and Irrigation.  I hold a Master of Science in Project Management- International Irish University through Digital Advisory and Learning Centre (DALC) Education. Post Graduate Diploma in Project Management, – Cambridge Association of Managers (CAM) and a Bachelor of Science -Natural Resource Management from Egerton University. I have experience of over 20 years working with national and international civil and government institutions on aspects of rural and urban development specifically on Water and natural resources management, Climate change and food security in different of Kenya and Africa .

I am a certified member of the United Nations Framework on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as an a reviewer on the roster with mandate to review Nationally Determined Contributions Biennial Technical Reports (BTRs) and National Communications specifically on Land Use, Land Use Change and Forestry (LULUCF) Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHGs) , crosscutting and general issues affecting countries delivery  of NDC targets and commitments. I am Core member to the Ministry of Water Sanitation and Irrigation on Greening and Climate Change Unit. Supporting the Hon of Africa on Ground Water Resilience as Environmental safeguards specialists. I was a Team Leader of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)- Upper Tana Natural Resources Management Project (UTaNRMP).  I have previous experiences working with farming communities on sustainable agriculture and participatory forest management in Kenya. Coordinating the East Africa Living Network under the Global Nature Fund and Water access projects in Nigeria and Kenya working with the Japan Water Forum.

Through my leadership I have supported the National Task force on development of Climate Change Learning strategy  for Kenya. Supported concept development on “Enhanced financing for green water and sanitation Technologies in Kenya” for the Green Climate Fund.  Spearheaded technical assistance to WSTF on feasibility study of Catalysing Low carbon & green technologies for effective water services delivery in Kenya from the Climate Technology Innovation Centre- CTCN Denmark