The Science for Africa (SFA Foundation) is delighted to appoint Ms Hannah Ngugi as its first-ever Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective 1st January 2025, a milestone appointment that reflects the Foundation’s continued growth and commitment to financial excellence.  

Hannah brings over 20 years of strategic financial leadership in grant administration, financial systems, and organisational planning in the non-profit sector. She is a Certified Public Accountant and holds a Master’s in Management and Organizational Development, alongside a Bachelor's degree in International Business Administration (Finance) from USIU-Africa. She is an accredited member of the Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Kenya (ICPAK) and serves on the Board and Finance Committee of the Legal Resources Foundation (LRF). 

She has previously held senior finance roles at the African Academy of Sciences (AAS), Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), and Samaritan’s Purse. 

Driving Operational Excellence at the SFA Foundation 

Since joining the Foundation, Hannah has led several transformative initiatives: 

• Played a key role on the executive team and board support, contributing to decisions that drive science and innovation across Africa 

• Directed fiscal planning and oversight of the Foundation’s $36 million annual budget, optimizing resource allocation, reinforcing accountability, and financial reporting. 

• Built and mentored high-performing finance and grants team 

• Developed a robust cost-recovery framework, strengthening financial resilience and sustainability 

• Implemented financial management systems and governance, enhancing data integrity and operational efficiency. 

A Foundation on the Rise 

Since its launch in 2021, the SFA Foundation has experienced rapid growth. Through strategic partnerships and the Foundation's support to African scientists, today, we manage a diverse portfolio of over 100 research projects across 34 African countries, backed by a $189 million grant fund from an array of funders. Our work, aligned with our 2023–2027 strategy, supports groundbreaking research across key thematic areas essential to Africa’s sustainable development. This progress is made possible through sound leadership and a deep commitment to good corporate governance. 

Championing Resilient Funding Ecosystems 

Beyond her financial expertise, Hannah is a vocal advocate for sustainable funding in complex environments. Her thought leadership is exemplified in her June 2024 article, “Research funders have no excuse to shun volatile countries”, published in Research Professional News, where she challenges conventional funding norms and calls for equity in global research financing. 

A Multifaceted Leader 

A gratified mother, Hannah is equally passionate about mentorship and personal finance education, helping others build financial literacy and confidence for a better future. Away from spreadsheets and boardrooms, she is an avid reader, culinary explorer, and travel enthusiast who finds joy in discovering new cultures.