Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou, Ph.D.
About Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou, Ph.D.
Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou, Ph.D., serves as the Director of Politics and Governance at the Overseas Development Institute in London. With a Ph.D. from the University of Oxford and extensive experience in governance and policy analysis across Africa, she advises various institutions on issues related to peacebuilding and sustainable finance.
Current Role at ODI
Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou serves as the Director of Politics and Governance at the Overseas Development Institute (ODI) since 2020. In this role, she leads initiatives that focus on governance, peacebuilding, and sustainable finance. Her position involves advising various stakeholders, including governments, development agencies, and NGOs, on policy analysis and best practices in governance.
Education and Expertise
Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou holds a Ph.D. in Politics from the University of Oxford, where she studied from 2001 to 2005. She also earned a Master of Science (MSc) in African Studies from the same institution, completing her studies from 2000 to 2001. Her academic background supports her extensive expertise in governance, human rights, and the extractive sector, with her research featured in various publications.
Professional Background
Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou has a diverse professional background, having worked in various capacities across multiple organizations. She was a Trade and Investment Programme Coordinator at Oxfam in Senegal and served as a consultant for UNIFEM. Additionally, she held roles at OECD-OCDE, including Interim Coordinator of the International Dialogue on Peacebuilding and Statebuilding and Head of Unit. Her experience spans over two decades in international development and policy analysis.
Achievements and Recognition
Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou received the 2013 Ruth First Prize for Best African Academic Article from the Review of African Political Economy (ROAPE). Her contributions to the field of governance and human rights, particularly regarding business practices in the extractive sector, have been recognized through various publications and commissioned reports.
Language Proficiency
Kathryn Nwajiaku Dahou is bilingual in French and possesses moderate proficiency in Spanish, Igbo, and Wolof. This linguistic ability enhances her capacity to engage with diverse stakeholders across different regions, particularly in Africa.