Boniface Wekesa Wanyama is a distinguished professional with over 32 years of extensive experience in both public and private sectors, primarily focused on education, research, science, and technology and sustainable development. He currently serves as a resident consultant at the African Centre for Technology Studies (ACTS), where he plays a pivotal role in resource mobilization for the construction of the Organization’s Technology Scaling and Commercialization Centre. His commitment to advancing research, science, and technology is further exemplified through his position as Chairman of the Kenya National Man and Biosphere (MAB) Committee, a role he has held since 2016. He is also serving as the Vice Chairman of the African MAB (AfriMAB) Bureau, as the Chairman of the East African Region. He has also played this role since 2016. As the Chair of the East African region he led the nomination and designation of Mount Elgon ecosystem as a UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserve (2023). Mr. Wanyama is currently involved in the nomination of the Lake Victoria Basin as a UNESCO Transboundary Biosphere Reserve that brings together four East African Countries of Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda.

Additionally, he contributes to the global environmental conservation initiatives as a UNESCO Volunteer Ecosystem Analyst Expert. As an expert under the framework of the “UNESCO Earth Network” he supports the contribution of UNESCO designated sites and Conventions to the interlinked challenges of biodiversity loss and climate change and demonstrate that living in harmony with nature is possible.

Mr. Wanyama’s career is marked by a series of significant leadership positions. From February 2020 to July 2022, he was the Director of Research, Accreditation, and Quality Assurance at the National Commission for Science, Technology and Innovation (NACOSTI). In this capacity, he was responsible for regulating and ensuring quality assurance in research activities across Kenya, advising both national and county governments on science and technology policies. His efforts included developing strategic priorities for scientific and technological innovation that align with Kenya’s economic and social goals; and providing secretariat to the National Bioethics Committee, whose mandate is to review proposals for the establishment of Institutional Scientific Research Ethics Review Committees.

Before his tenure at NACOSTI, Mr. Wanyama spent nine years as a Senior Assistant Secretary General at the Kenya National Commission for UNESCO (KNATCOM), where he spearheaded the establishment of several key initiatives, including the UNESCO Category 2 Regional Centre on Groundwater, Education, Training, and Research. His advocacy for environmental conservation is further highlighted by his role in the designation of Mt. Elgon as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve; and his involvement in extending the Mt. Kenya World Heritage Site to include Lewa Wildlife Conservancy; and extension of Malindi Watamu Biosphere Reserve to include Arabuko Sokoke Forest. Other achievement during this tenure include: successful preparation of proposals for funding of activities in all the six designated biosphere reserves  in Kenya; organization of branding of the six Kenya’s Biosphere Reserves; and organizing and conducting of capacity building trainings of Biosphere Reserve Managers and relevant key stakeholders.

Mr. Wanyama’s academic credentials include a Master of Science degree in Ecosystems Analysis and PhD studies in Environmental Policy with research interests in international agreements, conventions and treaties. His educational background has equipped him with a robust understanding of the science and technology fields, enabling him to navigate complex educational and environmental challenges effectively. His previous experience as a high school teacher in Biology and Chemistry has also honed his skills in effective communication and pedagogy.

Throughout his career, Mr. Wanyama has actively participated in national and international conferences, representing Kenya on various platforms. He has held numerous prestigious positions, including member of the Governing Council of the African Centre for Technology Studies; Kenya’s representation to Intergovernmental Bioethics Committee of UNESCO; Vice Chairman to the Social and Human Sciences Commission of UNESCO (2009); a representative to the African Regional Cooperative Agreement for Research, Development and Training related to Nuclear Science and Technology (AFRA (2011 to 2015); International Atomic Energy Agency, National Liaison Assistant  (2011 to 2013);  and Secretary to the African Regional Bioethics Committee. His extensive network of professional relationships and partnerships reflects his dedication to fostering collaboration in the fields of education, research, and environmental sustainability.

In recognition of his significant contributions, Mr. Wanyama has been honored with the Doctor of Management (Honoris Causa) by both AUBSS and QAHE, a testament to his impactful work and leadership in promoting quality education, research and sustainable practices. As he continues to drive initiatives that bridge the gap between education and environmental stewardship, Mr. Wanyama remains a vital figure in advancing Kenya’s scientific and educational landscape.