Our Team & Governance

Meet the passionate youth leaders driving GAHI's mission and learn about our transparent governance structure that ensures accountability and community-focused decision-making.

Meet Our Board Our Governance

Our Board of Directors

GAHI is governed by a dedicated Board of 5 founding members who provide strategic direction and leadership.

Mohamed Abass Maalim - Founder & CEO

Mohamed Abass Maalim

Founder & Executive Director (Chairperson)

Visionary leader with extensive experience in sustainable agriculture and community development. Provides overall leadership and strategic direction for GAHI.

Mohamud Abdirahman Haji

Director of Operations & Finance (Treasurer)

Financial expert responsible for managing GAHI's day-to-day operations, finances, and accounting. Ensures compliance with financial regulations and donor requirements.

Osman Adan Abdi

Head of Programs

Program management specialist with expertise in waste management, soil health, and climate action initiatives. Designs, implements, and monitors GAHI's core programs.

Hanan Adan Alio

Head of Youth, Women & Research Affairs

Advocate for youth and women empowerment with research expertise. Leads initiatives to engage and empower youth and women in sustainable agriculture and community development.

Mohamed Ali Adan

Head of Communications, Advocacy & Partnerships (Secretary)

Communications and partnerships specialist responsible for GAHI's branding, public relations, advocacy campaigns, and stakeholder engagement.

Roles & Duties of Office Bearers

Clear responsibilities ensure effective leadership and accountability within GAHI's governance structure.

Founder & Executive Director (Chairperson)

  • Provide overall leadership and vision
  • Preside over Board meetings
  • Represent GAHI in external forums
  • Lead strategic planning and partnerships
  • Exercise casting vote in case of Board deadlock

Director of Operations & Finance (Treasurer)

  • Manage day-to-day operations and finances
  • Prepare budgets and financial reports
  • Ensure compliance with financial regulations
  • Oversee procurement and resource allocation
  • Maintain financial records and accountability

Head of Programs

  • Design, implement, and monitor GAHI's programs
  • Conduct needs assessments and program evaluations
  • Supervise program staff and field activities
  • Develop program strategies and work plans
  • Ensure program alignment with organizational goals

Head of Youth, Women & Research Affairs

  • Lead youth and women empowerment initiatives
  • Coordinate research and innovation projects
  • Facilitate training and capacity-building
  • Develop youth and women engagement strategies
  • Bridge research with community practice

Head of Communications, Advocacy & Partnerships (Secretary)

  • Take minutes of board meetings
  • Maintain official organizational records
  • Manage communications and public relations
  • Lead advocacy campaigns on key issues
  • Cultivate partnerships and stakeholder networks

Program Coordinator (Future Position)

  • Execute GAHI initiatives and field activities
  • Conduct monitoring and evaluation studies
  • Coordinate with community stakeholders
  • Provide regular progress reports to the Board
  • Supervise field staff and volunteers

Governance Structure & Transparency

GAHI operates under a clear governance framework that ensures accountability, transparency, and community participation.

Board Composition & Terms

The Board consists of 5 founding members who serve 3-year terms, renewable by reappointment. Board membership may be terminated in cases of resignation, death, incapacity, or misconduct by a two-thirds majority vote.

New Board members shall be appointed or elected by a majority vote of the existing Board as the organization grows.

Board Meetings

The Board meets at least four (4) times each year, with additional meetings convened as needed. Meetings may be held in person or via electronic means.

Meeting Guidelines:

  • Notices issued at least 14 days in advance with agenda
  • Quorum: 50% of members (at least 3 of 5 initial members)
  • Decisions by simple majority vote
  • Chairperson casts deciding vote in case of tie
  • Minutes recorded and signed by Chairperson and Secretary
  • Proxy attendance permitted with prior arrangement
Meeting Type Frequency Notice Period Quorum
Regular Board Meetings Quarterly (4 times/year) 14 days 50% of members
Special/Extraordinary Meetings As needed 7 days (urgent matters) 50% of members
Annual General Meeting Once per year 21 days 50% of members

Committees

The Board may establish standing or ad-hoc committees to focus on specific objectives, such as:

  • Climate Action Committee
  • AMR Advocacy Committee
  • Finance Committee
  • Youth & Women Committee
  • Research & Innovation Committee

Committees operate under terms of reference approved by the Board and report their activities and recommendations to the Board. Any financial requirements must be approved in advance by the Board.

Trustees

A Board of Trustees (3 to 5 members) may be appointed to safeguard GAHI's assets and continuity. Trustees:

  • Hold title to any property or assets of GAHI
  • Have authority to approve sale or disposal of assets
  • Serve on a voluntary, non-remunerated basis
  • Provide oversight for organizational continuity

Financial Oversight

GAHI maintains strict financial controls and transparency:

  • Bank account with at least two authorized signatories
  • Annual independent audit by Certified Public Accountant
  • Audit reports presented to Board and filed with authorities
  • Financial year: January 1 to December 31
  • No personal gain from organizational funds

Accountability & Liability

GAHI ensures proper accountability measures:

  • Board members and employees not personally liable for debts incurred in good faith
  • Indemnification for liabilities from proper execution of duties
  • Compliance with all Kenyan labor laws for employees
  • Written contracts and clear job descriptions for all staff

Join Our Youth-Led Movement

GAHI is built on the principle that youth and women are key drivers of sustainable change. We welcome partnerships, volunteers, and supporters who share our vision for resilient farming communities in Kenya.

Get Involved Contact Our Team
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