FUTA Alumna, Olufunke Cofie, Appointed as Africa Director for Research Impact at International Water Management Institute

The International Water Management Institute (IWMI) has appointed Dr. Olufunke Cofie, an esteemed alumna of the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA), as the new Africa Director for Research Impact. This prestigious appointment highlights Dr. Cofie’s remarkable two-decade career in research for development, where she has led transformative water and agricultural projects across Africa.

In her new role, Dr. Cofie will oversee IWMI’s research impact initiatives throughout Africa, driving innovative solutions to address water management challenges that are critical to sustainable agricultural development and environmental protection. Before this appointment, she served as IWMI’s Country Representative in Ghana and Regional Representative in West Africa, where she led high-level negotiations with public and private sector stakeholders on a wide range of projects aimed at improving water use efficiency and food security.

Dr. Cofie’s academic journey began at FUTA, where she earned her Ph.D. in Soil Science. She also spent a significant portion of her early career as a lecturer in the Department of Crop, Soil & Pest Management during the 1990s, where she contributed to academic advancement and mentored future leaders in agricultural research.

As a seasoned professional with extensive experience in research and development, Dr. Cofie has been at the forefront of efforts to create sustainable solutions for agricultural productivity and natural resource management. Her leadership in IWMI’s projects has helped address critical issues such as climate change adaptation, water scarcity, and ecosystem restoration, earning her respect across the international research community.

The IWMI, a leading non-profit research organization under the CGIAR (Consultative Group for International Agricultural Research), is dedicated to advancing the sustainable management of water and land resources. With headquarters in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and regional offices across Africa and Asia, IWMI’s work is integral to addressing global water challenges.

Dr. Cofie’s appointment is a testament to her outstanding contributions to water management research and her ability to lead impactful initiatives that benefit communities across the African continent. Her new role as Africa Director for Research Impact is expected to further strengthen IWMI’s research and development efforts in the region.

As Dr. Cofie assumes her new position, her alma mater, FUTA, celebrates yet another global recognition of one of its distinguished alumni, further enhancing the institution's reputation as a breeding ground for academic excellence and leadership in various fields.