Dr. Lucy Murungi, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Horticulture and Food Security at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT), has been appointed to the Kenya Country Council of the World Agriculture Forum (WAF).
The appointment recognizes her leadership, expertise, and commitment to advancing agriculture and food systems development in Kenya and beyond. Dr. Murungi is also the current Dean of the School of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (SOAES) within the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources (COANRE).
As a member of the Kenya Country Council, Dr. Murungi will contribute to WAF’s country-level initiatives through strategic engagement on issues affecting the agricultural sector. Her role will include advising on country-specific opportunities and challenges, supporting WAF programmes and events, and serving as an ambassador for the Forum’s mission. Her expertise is expected to help ensure that WAF initiatives remain inclusive, impactful, and responsive to local needs.
JKUAT Vice Chancellor Prof. Victoria Ngumi congratulated Dr. Murungi on the appointment, citing her distinguished research record and leadership in the agricultural sciences. She noted that Dr. Murungi has consistently been ranked among the country’s leading scientists in the fields of entomology and pesticides research.
“This appointment reflects the quality of expertise and leadership at JKUAT,” said Prof. Ngumi. “It demonstrates that our staff are making valuable contributions beyond the University and are increasingly recognized for their role in addressing national, regional, and global challenges.”
In her acceptance message, Dr. Murungi expressed gratitude for the appointment, describing it as recognition of JKUAT’s contribution to agricultural research, innovation, and capacity building.
“I am honoured and grateful for the appointment to the World Agriculture Forum (WAF) Country Council for Kenya. I view it as a recognition of the work we do at JKUAT in research, innovation, and capacity building in agriculture, and I look forward to contributing to the Forum’s mission,” she said.
Dr. Murungi expressed confidence that the Forum will strengthen collaboration among stakeholders across the agricultural value chain, promoting sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices, and supporting initiatives that enhance food security, improve farmer livelihoods, and drive agricultural development.