The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has appointed Olufunke Cofie as Africa Director for Research Impact. In this new role, she will provide strategic direction to strengthen IWMI’s development impact through research delivery and engagement with governments and regional partners across the African continent. She will work to further enhance the responsiveness and effectiveness of IWMI’s research capability and to create sustainable water management solutions tailored to the needs of Africa. Additionally, she will represent IWMI in Africa-wide institutions, platforms and processes.
Cofie served as IWMI’s Regional Representative in West Africa and Country Representative in Ghana. Since she joined the organization in 2001, Cofie has led research projects focusing on innovative water solutions, water reuse, land management and climate-resilient agriculture. She has successfully navigated complex challenges and built partnerships with government, academic institutions, civil society, and multilateral and bilateral development agencies. Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling solutions to address critical issues related to water scarcity, food security and climate resilience.
“I am honored to lead IWMI’s efforts in Africa and particularly excited to collaborate with my colleagues and our partners through collective action that advances the transformation of water systems for sustainable, just and climate-resilient development in Africa,” Cofie said.
Cofie has over 25 years of dedicated service in international agricultural research and development, including more than a decade in senior leadership roles. She is recognized for her strategic outlook and her expertise in research delivery, people management and organizational development. She excels in developing human capital through training, mentoring and motivating professionals to achieve results. She is a distinguished guest lecturer at universities in France, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, the United Kingdom and the United States.
