The Team

Tonthoza Uganja – Founder and Managing Director

Tonthoza Uganja is a highly experienced and skilled agro-systems professional.  Having dealt with small scale farmers for over 8 years under a private company she has honed her management skills and her people-centred approach. She is devoted to both the conservation and production schools of natural resources management. She believes in a gendered approach to development. She has an MSc in Tropical Forestry from Bangor University and is currently a fellow of the 3rd Cohort of African Women Entrepreneurship Cooperative (AWEC).

Vanessa Simwela – Farm Operations Lead

Vanessa Simwela is a passionate agriculturalist at heart with 7 years’ experience in irrigated sugarcane, mango, and banana farming. She has vast experience in managing irrigated farms. She is a planner, trainer, leader, and go-getter.  She has a BSc in Forestry and currently pursuing her MBA. She is a firm believer that linking forestry and agricultural principles is the way to go in saving and preserving the world’s fast depleting forests.

Leah Hez- Systems Development Director

A passionate social development enthusiast focused on technology and community empowerment who uses her career to advance this cause both professionally and personally. She believes that by providing women with access to finance and income-generating activities you can change the way they look at the world and their circumstance leading to development. She has an MSc in Information systems and over 11 years of experience in cloud computing, GIS and social development.

 

 Katewene Ngosi – Dynamic Agriculture Specialist

 Ketawene Ngosi is a dynamic Agriculture Specialist at Sustainable Farming Solutions (SFS), recognized for her exceptional expertise in promoting sustainable agricultural practices. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in General Agriculture from the University of Malawi,
equipping her with a solid foundation in agronomy and resource management. With a deep commitment to enhancing food security and
empowering local communities, Ketawene is a formidable advocate for innovative solutions in the agricultural sector. Her impactful
work not only drives sustainable farming initiatives but also fosters resilience among farmers, making her a true force to be reckoned
with in the field of agriculture.

 Chrispin Chinangwa- Forestry Specialist and Monitoring Intern

Chrispin Chinangwa is a  Forestry Specialist and Monitoring Intern at Sustainable Farming Solutions, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from the University of Malawi, complemented by certifications in GIS and Monitoring and Evaluation. His skill set includes project management, natural resource management, map creation, and community engagement, providing a solid foundation for addressing environmental challenges. His responsibilities encompass conducting project portfolio inventories, establishing tree nurseries, developing training manuals, facilitating partnerships, and creating capacity-building protocols for climate-smart farmers. He has a strong passion for nature and a commitment to inspiring positive change and environmental stewardship. Chrispin is working towards our shared goals of sustainability and conservation and through his role, he aims to make a meaningful impact and continually expand his knowledge in forestry.

 

 

 John Chavula – Advocate for sustainable agriculture.

 Chrispin Chinangwa is a  Forestry Specialist and Monitoring Intern at Sustainable Farming Solutions, he holds a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry from the University of Malawi, complemented by certifications in GIS and Monitoring and Evaluation. His skill set includes project management, natural resource management, map creation, and community engagement, providing a solid foundation for addressing environmental challenges. His responsibilities encompass conducting project portfolio inventories, establishing tree nurseries, developing training manuals, facilitating partnerships, and creating capacity-building protocols for climate-smart farmers. He has a strong passion for nature and a commitment to inspiring positive change and environmental stewardship. Chrispin is working towards our shared goals of sustainability and conservation and through his role, he aims to make a meaningful impact and continually expand his knowledge in forestry.
 

 Thembi Uganja- Likelihood and Operations Lead
 Thembi Uganja is the Livelihoods and Operations Lead at Sustainable Farming Solutions (SFS). Holding a degree in Land Economy and armed with certifications in Project Management and Livelihoods Impact, Thembi is at the forefront of driving sustainable change. With a fervent passion for poverty alleviation and sustainable development, Thembi has dedicated her career to creating impactful, long-lasting solutions that empower communities. At SFS, Thembi leads initiatives such as the Capacity Building Design team, integrating innovative approaches like Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR) into environmental conservation efforts. Her work ensures that these initiatives not only improve livelihoods but also foster resilience and prosperity in the face of environmental challenges.
 

Rowena Soko- Diligent accounting and Admins officer

Rowena Soko  is a diligent Accounting and Admins officer at SFS. A dedicated accountant, she blends precision with expertise, holding a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting from Malawi Assemblies of God University. At Sustainable Farming Solutions (SFS), she excels in producing accurate financial reports, managing grants, and coordinating procurement processes. Her attention to detail ensures meticulous record-keeping and effective fund monitoring, while her skills in financial reporting, audit support, and accounts reconciliation drive the organization’s fiscal integrity. Committed to excellence, she strives to uphold the highest standards in every aspect of her work, contributing to SFS’s financial health and sustainability.

 

Audrey Dzikambani – Restoration and Conservation coordinator

 

Aubrey
Dzinkambani is a dedicated professional serving as the Restoration and
Conservation Coordinator at Sustainable Farming Solutions (SFS). With a
Bachelor’s degree in Water Resources Management and Development, Aubrey brings
expertise in watershed management and environmental conservation to his role.
Committed to SFS’s mission of biodiversity preservation, climate change
mitigation and adaptation, and livelihood enhancement through agroforestry
projects, Aubrey spearheads community mobilization efforts and provides
trainings for tailored extension services to small holder farmers in the
project areas. His passion for protecting the environment and empowering
smallholder farmers drives his work towards sustainable agriculture and
conservation practices.