PANELIST
Rita Kahsay
Researcher and Director, Irob Anina Civil Society
Rita Kahsay is an experienced researcher, strategist, and project manager with a track record of working across multiple countries to advance policy, advocacy, and impact-driven initiatives. Her work has brought her into collaboration with governments, international organizations, and NGOs, engaging with institutions such as the African Union, European Union, United Kingdom, United States, and the United Nations. Focused on results-based program design and policy development, she has worked closely with high-level stakeholders to influence systemic change, strengthen performance management systems, and enhance program effectiveness in complex and conflict-affected environments. With a strong foundation in analysis, stakeholder engagement, and cross-functional coordination, Rita thrives in fast-paced settings that require balancing strategic priorities with execution. She is skilled in guiding teams, developing technical frameworks, and aligning projects with long-term impact goals. Her ability to navigate challenging contexts while maintaining a focus on results makes her well-suited for roles that require both strategic thinking and on-the-ground adaptability.