Our Leadership: Board & Team
At CESPAD, our leadership structure is built on a strong foundation of governance and collaboration. Our Board of Directors and management team work hand in hand to steer the organization toward achieving its vision: a world where water, nature, and people thrive together. With a shared commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and sustainability, this team ensures that CESPAD’s mission is effectively implemented at every level.
Board of Directors
The Board provides strategic oversight, financial accountability, and policy direction. Comprised of individuals with diverse expertise in governance, finance, community development, and environmental sustainability, the Board ensures that CESPAD remains true to its mission and values.
- Arch Cosmas Maweu – Board Chair
Provides leadership and oversight to ensure the integrity and strategic alignment of the organization. - David Gitonga – Board Treasurer
Oversees financial matters and supports the development of sustainable funding strategies. - Ashah Shaaban – Executive Director / Board Member
Represents management on the Board and leads day-to-day implementation of CESPAD’s vision. - Jacob Baraza – Board Member
Supports governance and contributes expertise in environmental and institutional policy. - Angelica Mwelu – Board Member
Provides strategic insight into gender mainstreaming and inclusive development programming.
Our Team
Driven by a people-centered approach, CESPAD’s team is composed of experienced professionals who implement programs, engage communities, manage resources, and monitor impact. The team works closely with partners and stakeholders to deliver sustainable outcomes across all focus areas.
Executive Director
- Ashah Shaaban
Provides overall leadership and organizational oversight.
Program Management
- Program Manager: Jane Mbevi
Leads strategic planning and implementation of core program areas. - Project Manager: Simon Njau
Coordinates field operations, partnerships, and project deliverables. - Project Officers: Susan Okumu and Valarie Andeso
Drive community engagement, data collection, training, and local implementation.
Finance and Administration
- Finance Manager: Shuruti Mwanjirani
Manages financial systems, planning, and reporting. - Project Accountant: Lydiah Gatheru
Supports project-level financial accountability and compliance.
Together, our Board and team are committed to delivering meaningful, inclusive, and lasting impact across CESPAD’s programs—ensuring that communities not only benefit from, but actively shape, the future of water, climate resilience, and environmental sustainability.