Prof. Alex Awiti is a Principal Scientist at CIFOR-ICRAF with over 25 years of expertise in agriculture, climate change, and rural development. A leading thought leader, he has held senior academic roles, authored 800+ opinion pieces, is regularly featured in major media outlets, and is a key voice in Africa’s sustainable development.

Ms. Sharon Kinyanjui is a renowned fintech leader with over 15 years of experience. She is known for growing World Remit’s presence across Africa and leading teams in Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. Sharon is recognized for her expertise in international business strategy and has received multiple awards for her impact on the African continent.

Mr. Peter Kirimi works as a Monitoring, Evaluation, Adaptation, and Learning Advisor at Population Services Kenya. As a seasoned data scientist, he has held senior MEL roles and serves as Director for multiple organizations. He is passionate about community development and believes that leadership begins with self-mastery and service.

Ms. Margaret Mliwa is a Senior Program Officer at the Ford Foundation. As a social justice advocate, she has been instrumental in advancing youth and citizen-led initiatives in East Africa and beyond. With experience across government, civil society, and philanthropy, she specializes in citizen-led agency, grantmaking, and program management.

Ms. Banice Mbuki Mburu is a Public Policy and Youth Development advocate with expertise in participatory development, policy research, and advocacy. An award-winning youth leader, she was nominated for the 2022 Diversity and Inclusion Award and recognized as one of the women under 30 shaping Kenya’s future in the governance sector.

Dr. Anthony Mveyange is the Director of Programs at APHRC and co-founder of NIERA.  He is a Tanzanian development economist with over 15 years of experience in policy, research, and data analysis, focusing on poverty, inequality, and economic growth in Africa. He has held leadership roles at the World Bank and other institutions.

Mr. Lwanga Mbeche has over 17 years of experience in the SACCO movement, including 12 years in senior management roles. He previously served as CEO of Finnlemm SACCO and has expertise in financial management, leadership, performance management, and strategy formulation and implementation.

CPA Benard Ayieko served as the Chairman of the Board in the financial year 2024. He is an Economist, Lawyer, Certified Secretary, Certified Public Accountant and an op-ed writer in leading local dailies. He holds a Master of Arts (Economics), Bachelor of Arts (Economics) and Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degrees (all from the University of Nairobi). He also holds a post-graduate diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law and a diploma in Banking & Finance. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a member of the Institute of Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK). He is a Certified Secretary (CS) and a member of the Institute of Certified Secretaries of Kenya (ICS). He is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). He is currently pursuing a post-professional qualification course for Certified Forensic Fraud Examiner (CFFE).

He is a Certified Director with the Institute of Directors Kenya (IOD-K) and a member of the Kwanza Kenya Toastmasters. He is also a member of the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) serving in the Governance, Integrity and Compliance Committee. Mr. Ayieko has over sixteen (16) years’ work experience in policy, research, advocacy and trade and investment. He has also worked for a diplomatic mission, international audit, tax and advisory firm, commercial bank, NGO and stocks market. He has several professional certificates in credit management, competition law, risk management, ISO auditing, Information Security Management Systems and Business Continuity Management.

He is currently serving in the Audit and Risk Management (ARM) Committee and the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Committee. As a director, he previously served as the Secretary for the Credit Committee and a member for the Business Development and Education (BDE) Committee. He also served as the Treasurer and Chairman for the Finance and Administration (FINAD) Committee. CPA Ayieko’s focus is to ensure that the Sacco is financially resilient and member-driven by fostering economic empowerment, financial inclusion, and sustainable growth through innovative and ethical financial solutions.

Caroline Karanja is a seasoned C-suite finance professional and business growth coach, driving sustainable financial and strategic growth for long-term success. With over 20 years of experience, she specializes in financial management, strategic leadership, operational efficiency, and risk oversight, helping businesses navigate both lean and growth periods.

Caroline has extensive board experience as a non-executive director and Audit & Risk Committee member, offering financial oversight, risk management, and digital transformation expertise across conservation, hospitality, retail, education, and charity sectors. She combines strategic and operational insights with technology-driven solutions to enhance financial sustainability and business resilience.

As a certified Executive Coach and Genos Emotional Intelligence Practitioner, Caroline empowers entrepreneurs and business leaders to integrate sustainable business strategies that ensure profitability while making a positive social and environmental impact.

She holds a Master’s in Finance & Financial Law, and is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA-K), Certified Public Secretary (CPS-K), and an Executive Coach.

Eunice is a Certified Public Accountant of Kenya (CPA-K) and member of ICPAK. She’s a holder of a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, Finance and Banking option (First Class Honors) from Egerton University and Master’s degree in Business Administration from Kenyatta University.

Eunice is a passionate, self-motivated and dynamic public accountant with a diversified skill set including 10+ years of accounting and auditing experience in the public sector and Non-profit institutions. She has successfully monitored and implemented multiple high value Donor projects funded by CDC, EU, Welcome Trust, Oxford University, DFID and the World Bank.

Currently serving as the Senior Finance Officer with The Information Communications and Technology Authority, she is tasked with implementing financial accounting policies, procedures, strategies and systems to ensure effective control and accountability of the Authority’s resources. Prior to her current position, she has worked with World Provision Centre, German Foundation for World Population and KEMRI – Wellcome Trust Research Programme.

CPA Benard Ayieko served as the Chairman of the Board in the financial year 2024. He is an Economist, Lawyer, Certified Secretary, Certified Public Accountant and an op-ed writer in leading local dailies. He holds a Master of Arts (Economics), Bachelor of Arts (Economics) and Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degrees (all from the University of Nairobi). He also holds a post-graduate diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law and a diploma in Banking & Finance. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a member of the Institute of Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK). He is a Certified Secretary (CS) and a member of the Institute of Certified Secretaries of Kenya (ICS). He is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). He is currently pursuing a post-professional qualification course for Certified Forensic Fraud Examiner (CFFE).

He is a Certified Director with the Institute of Directors Kenya (IOD-K) and a member of the Kwanza Kenya Toastmasters. He is also a member of the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) serving in the Governance, Integrity and Compliance Committee. Mr. Ayieko has over sixteen (16) years’ work experience in policy, research, advocacy and trade and investment. He has also worked for a diplomatic mission, international audit, tax and advisory firm, commercial bank, NGO and stocks market. He has several professional certificates in credit management, competition law, risk management, ISO auditing, Information Security Management Systems and Business Continuity Management.

He is currently serving in the Audit and Risk Management (ARM) Committee and the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Committee. As a director, he previously served as the Secretary for the Credit Committee and a member for the Business Development and Education (BDE) Committee. He also served as the Treasurer and Chairman for the Finance and Administration (FINAD) Committee. CPA Ayieko’s focus is to ensure that the Sacco is financially resilient and member-driven by fostering economic empowerment, financial inclusion, and sustainable growth through innovative and ethical financial solutions.

Saidi is an ICT professional with over 16 years’ experience in formulating and executing comprehensive strategies to drive innovation and efficiency. Proven track record of providing visionary leadership on ICT, Adept at implementing cutting-edge technologies and overseeing project lifecycles, establishing robust service-level agreements, and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards. Skilled in negotiating contracts, managing vendor relationships, and optimizing ICT costs.

Saidi Joined Kimisitu Sacco from Sheria Sacco where he served as the head of ICT. Previously He worked as the head of ICT NSSF SACCO Ltd, Business intelligence analyst at G7 Systems Ltd and as systems developer and support at Kenya commercial bank.

Holds a master’s degree in business administration (Strategic management) from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor of Science Information Technology from Jomo Kenyatta University. Trained and certification on ITIL, project management, CCNA and CEH

Stellar is a seasoned Human Resources Practioner with over 17 years experience. She is a Full Member of The Institute of Human Resource Management – Kenya.

Her areas of expertise have focused on; but not limited to HR budgeting, HR Audit, HR strategy implementation, recruitment, managing of performance management programs, staff training and development, formulation and implementation of HR policies, management of Employee corporate relations activities, Health and Safety, overall motivation and retention of staff as well as Corporate administration

Stellar Joined Kimisitu Sacco from Amica Sacco where she previously served in the capacity of Human Resources & Administration Manager. She has served in other financial institutions in the same capacity.

She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Resources Management from Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Higher National Diploma from IHRM –K and is currently pursuing her Master’s Degree in Business Administration at Catholic University.

Elijah is a Finance professional, with over 12 years relevant accounting and internal audit experience with industry leaders.

He is a Certified Public Accountant of Kenya (CPAK), a member of Institute of Internal Auditors, a member of Information System Audit Control Association (ISACA) and holds Bachelor of Commerce (Finance) from Kenyatta University.

CPA Purity Kimathi is the FOSA Manager at Kimisitu Sacco. She has over 10 years’ experience in the Co-operative Movement.

She is an experienced FOSA Operations and management expert having previously worked at Mwalimu National Sacco and Afya Sacco. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in commerce from KCA university and a Master of Science in Finance from the University of Nairobi.

She is a Certified Public Accountant and a member of ICPAK and AWAK (Association of Women Accountants of Kenya.) 

Jonathan Asena is an accomplished professional with over 13 years of experience in Marketing Communications, Business Development, Customer Service, and Public Relations across diverse sectors including finance and Non-Governmental organizations. Holding a Bachelor of Science Degree in Communication and Public Relations from Moi University, Jonathan is currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Corporate Communications at Daystar University.

Throughout his career, Jonathan has demonstrated proficiency in various roles within Marketing Communications, Customer Service, and Business Development departments. He has successfully spearheaded initiatives resulting in notable increases in brand visibility, customer-focused product reviews, enhanced uptake, and heightened customer satisfaction rates.

Jonathan’s leadership style is characterized by strategic vision, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. He possesses a proven track record of fostering brand loyalty, driving sales growth, and generating revenue for the organizations he has served. His adeptness in effective communication and relationship-building have enabled him to craft compelling narratives that resonate with audiences, driving engagement and fostering brand advocacy.

Driven by his mantra of leading transformative initiatives, shaping brand narratives, and driving organizational success through strategic marketing communication strategies and exceptional customer engagement, Jonathan remains dedicated to achieving excellence and making a meaningful impact in his diverse field.

He is an active member of both the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) and Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK).

Catherine Odhiambo currently works at Kimisitu DT Sacco as the Ag. CEO. She has over Twenty years in the Co-operative movement having previously worked for Vest Sacco for Eleven years.

She holds a Bachelors degree in Business Administration (Finance) Kenya Methodist University, a Diploma in Co-operative Management from Co-operative College of Kenya and CPA (K).

Millicent Orerah is an accomplished professional with over 17 years working experience in the Sacco Industry and over 10 years in Senior Management serving in different capacities.

She has championed and spearheaded different areas of operations including; Fosa Operations, Customer Service Experience, Business Development, Marketing, Credit Administration, championing the implementation of strategic plans.

Throughout her career, she has demonstrated commercial acumen, passion, resilience, team player, commitment to staff development and training for excellence performance and results oriented.

Prior to joining Kimisitu Sacco Society Limited, she served in Elimu Sacco Society Limited in various positions, Fundilima Sacco Society Limited as Deputy CEO, JAMII Sacco Society Limited as the Head of Operations and One Cent Circle Limited as the Head of Operations.

She is a holder of Bachelor of Business Management (BBM) from Moi University and she is a Certified Public Accountant(CPA(K), from KCA University and currently in the process of pursuing her Masters.

She is also a full member of KIM(Kenya institute of Management) and an associate member of ICPAk.

Mr. Mbeche has over 17 years working experience in the Sacco movement with over 12 years working in senior management positions.

He joined Kimisitu from his previous employer where he served as the Chief Executive Officer Finnlemm SACCO. Mr. Mbeche also has vast experience and knowledge in Financial Management, Leadership, Performance Management, Strategy Formulation and Implementation, just to mention a few.

He holds an MBA Strategic Management; UON, International Business Administration( Accounting and Finance),USIU-A, is a CPAK and a member of ICPAK and is currently pursuing a PHD in Finance.

CPA Benard Ayieko served as the Chairman of the Board in the financial year 2024. He is an Economist, Lawyer, Certified Secretary, Certified Public Accountant and an op-ed writer in leading local dailies. He holds a Master of Arts (Economics), Bachelor of Arts (Economics) and Bachelor of Laws (LL.B) degrees (all from the University of Nairobi). He also holds a post-graduate diploma in Law from the Kenya School of Law and a diploma in Banking & Finance. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a member of the Institute of Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK). He is a Certified Secretary (CS) and a member of the Institute of Certified Secretaries of Kenya (ICS). He is an Advocate of the High Court of Kenya and a member of the Law Society of Kenya (LSK). He is currently pursuing a post-professional qualification course for Certified Forensic Fraud Examiner (CFFE).

He is a Certified Director with the Institute of Directors Kenya (IOD-K) and a member of the Kwanza Kenya Toastmasters. He is also a member of the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) serving in the Governance, Integrity and Compliance Committee. Mr. Ayieko has over sixteen (16) years’ work experience in policy, research, advocacy and trade and investment. He has also worked for a diplomatic mission, international audit, tax and advisory firm, commercial bank, NGO and stocks market. He has several professional certificates in credit management, competition law, risk management, ISO auditing, Information Security Management Systems and Business Continuity Management.

He is currently serving in the Audit and Risk Management (ARM) Committee and the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Committee. As a director, he previously served as the Secretary for the Credit Committee and a member for the Business Development and Education (BDE) Committee. He also served as the Treasurer and Chairman for the Finance and Administration (FINAD) Committee. CPA Ayieko’s focus is to ensure that the Sacco is financially resilient and member-driven by fostering economic empowerment, financial inclusion, and sustainable growth through innovative and ethical financial solutions.

Secretary – Credit Committee

With over 16 years as an active Kimisitu Sacco member and 17+ years of experience in HR and Administration, Emmah Kageha Engoke is a results-driven professional thriving in multicultural environments.

She currently serves as General Services Manager at the US Peace Corps, having previously held key roles at ICAP Kenya (Columbia University, New York) and GOAL Ireland. Emmah excels in staff supervision, training, stakeholder engagement, and logistics management, particularly within international NGOs.

She holds a Bachelor of Commerce (HR) from KCA University, a Diploma in Business Management from the Kenya Institute of Management, and specialized training in leadership and management. She has successfully collaborated with MOH, NACC, KNBS, NCPD, and county governments, ensuring seamless operations in employee benefits, performance appraisals, field logistics, and office administration.

A passionate leader and strategic thinker, Emmah is committed to driving excellence and efficiency in every role she undertakes.

Chairman

Philip Nzioki joined the board in February 2019. I am currently serving in Credit (Chairman) and Audit & Risk Management (Secretary) Committees. He is public health expert. A gifted and polished in programs design, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. He is involved in successful proposal writing and advocacy

He has accomplished a lot in design and implementation of public health programs in senior and management positions working with both international and local NGOs including Samaritans Purse International Relief, CMMB, ICAP, CHS and CIHEB Kenya. Currently serving as County Team Lead (technical & administrative management) He is a director with several private companies and boards including Kimisitu Investment Company PLC and board member in Kitui CHMB and publics secondary schools, to serve the community.

He holds BSc (Moi University), MSC student (JKUAT) and several academic and professional certificates from KIPC, University of Dundee, University of Washington among others. He has an extensive training in cooperative leadership and governance especially training in finance for non-finance directors. He is a member of Nursing Council of Kenya (NCK) and Institute of Directors Kenya (IoDK)

He brings along wealth of experience in design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of projects as well as good governance practices that will see Kimisitu DT Sacco grow in the next frontier

Apollonia Ochieng is serving as the Treasurer of the sacco, joined the board in March 2024 and is the Chair of Audit and Risk Management (ARM) and Secretary of the Information Communications and Technology (ICT) Committees.

She is an expert in Grants, Accounting and Financial management. She is well-versed in multi-donor reporting, strategic financial management, treasury management, design and implementation of systems and tools that promote internal and external accountability, and grant contract management.

Furthermore, she specializes in integrating risk management into routine management processes, managing large and complex budgets, and financial audits. She ensures adherence to Standard Operating Procedures, rules and regulations, and statutory and legal standards of the host countries. One of her achievements is setting up financial management systems and tools for donor programs in Results-Based Financing, Renewable Energy, Health services, Agriculture, and Climate Resilience, as well as Kenya government projects.

Currently, she is working with the World Resources Institute as a Grants Manager, leading the grants financial, contract, and audit management of the P4G project. Previously, she worked with SNV Netherlands Development Organization, International Business and Technical Consultants Inc. (IBTCI), and RedR UK. She holds a Master of Science in Finance and a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting and is a member of the Institute of Certified Accountants Kenya (ICPAK).

Faith is an Information Systems specialist with experience in managing digital transformation projects in NGOs and Government. She has previously worked with World Agroforestry Center (CIFOR-ICRAF), CWS Global and Dynamix Africa and is currently working with the Ministry of Lands and Physical Planning on several projects involving geo-mapping, and digitization of land records in Kenya.

She has a high business acumen, vast knowledge, and diverse skills and experiences, having worked in the consumer insights and market research industry at Dynamix Africa, with corporate clients from multiple sectors. She is passionate about using technology to enhance access to information, promote transparency and accountability, improve efficiency in operational processes, create a delightful user experience, enhance product development and innovation, and expand to new markets at a reasonable cost. She also has expertise in sustainable business strategy formulation.

Faith holds an MBA in Strategic Management, BSc in Applied Mathematics, a Higher Diploma in Human Resource Management, and a Diploma in ICT.

Dr. Esther Waruiru-Kago serves as the Vice Chairperson of the society and also the Chairperson of Business development and Education (BDE), a member of the Finance & Administration Committees.

She is a Marketing and Communications expert with vast experience honed while serving progressive organisations spanning from Market Research, oil industry, financial services, and the public Sector. She is passionate about brands, strategic marketing, communication, coaching, organizational culture, sustainability & shared value.

She is a Corporate Communications Manager at NTSA and previously worked for ICEA Lion Group, Mobil Oil Kenya Limited in various capacities.

Dr. Esther Waruiru-Kago serves as the Vice Chairperson of the society and also the Chairperson of Business development and Education (BDE), a member of the Finance & Administration Committees

She is a Marketing and Communications expert with vast experience honed while serving progressive organisations spanning from Market Research, oil industry, financial services, and the public Sector. She is passionate about brands, strategic marketing, communication, coaching, organizational culture, sustainability & shared value.

She is a Corporate Communications Manager at NTSA and previously worked for ICEA Lion Group, Mobil Oil Kenya Limited in various capacities. Dr. Kago possesses relevant leadership experience and has been a Member of the Board of schools management of Muhoho high school and Ndarugu high school in Kiambu County. She is experienced in stewardship of employee funds having served as a chairperson of an employee welfare fund.

Dr. Waruiru-Kago holds a PhD in Marketing from Kenyatta University, a Post-graduate Diploma in Public Relations and has attended several senior management courses in leading institutions. She is a Member of the Public Relations Society of Kenya (PRSK) and Marketing Society of Kenya (MSK).