Lilian Ndungu

Biography

Dr. Lilian Ndungu is a technology executive with 17 years of experience driving transformative change across 12+ African countries and fostering global collaborations. She excels in leveraging digital technologies (ICT, AI, ML), satellites, and emerging innovations to empower stakeholders and enhance decision-making, with a strong focus on gender inclusion and African-led innovations. Holding a Ph.D. in GIS, Dr. Ndungu has a proven track record in strategic visioning, program design, fundraising, and relationship building. Her expertise spans African agriculture, climate resilience, and food systems transformation. As the Ag-Technology and Policy Advisor for MINAGRI in Rwanda she is currently supporting the development of digital public infrastructure, influencing digital policies and strategies. Dr. Ndungu is also driving the design and adoption of innovations such as an AI-enabled chatbot for 24/7 Agri-advisories, a satellite-based agriculture monitoring system, and exploring blockchain and traceability innovations for agricultural transformation; as well as designing solutions for digital literacy and strengthening device access for farmers. Previously, she has led the development of digital technologies and systems for governments, including sampling frames for insurance, crop monitoring, drought forecasting, yield estimation, and food balance sheets, alongside capacity development programs. Passionate about inclusive development, she emphasizes private sector involvement and a holistic innovation ecosystem in digital agriculture transformation.