Duku Emmanuel Henry Wani

Duku Emmanuel Henry Wani headshot

Hubert H. Humphrey Fellow, 2023-24

  • Home country: South Sudan
  • Specialization: Food Security and Livelihoods
  • Current role: Agronomist and Food Security Program Manager, Livelihood Initiative for Africa
  • Education: University of Juba - Juba South Sudan, Master’s in Disaster Risk Management and Food System Resilience; Ndejje University Kampala (U), Bachelor of Sustainable Agriculture and extension (First Class Hons) – Specialization in Agronomy; Kyambogo University, Kampala (U), Diploma in agriculture with education
  • Connect: dew262 [at] cornell.edu (Email) | LinkedIn

Duku Emmanuel Henry is an accomplished development practitioner with extensive experience in the nonprofit, private, and public sectors. Currently based in the United States, he is recognized as a distinguished Publicly Recognized Food Security and Livelihoods (FSL) Program Manager and Fellow, dedicating his expertise to Agriculture and Rural Development to support marginalized communities, particularly in South Sudan.

His work is centered on crucial aspects like fundraising, networking, collaboration, coordination, proposal development, and ensuring the effective delivery of humanitarian aid and reports. Duku possesses specialized knowledge in climate-smart agriculture, agribusiness, resource management, and the utilization of information and communication technologies in agriculture development and Village Savings and Loan Associations.

In his present role at Livelihood Initiative for Africa, Duku plays a pivotal part in leadership positions, focusing on livelihood and food security delivery. His responsibilities encompass assessing services, resources, and programs to cater to the needs of disaster and crisis-affected populations, with a specific emphasis on those who are underrepresented, marginalized, and/or first-generation, all while fostering resilience.

A key area of involvement for him lies in spearheading a digital agriculture initiative that aims to provide direct information and aid to over 5,000 farmers, facilitating agricultural development opportunities. His ultimate ambition is to create awareness about digital agriculture and address livelihoods and food insecurity by making dynamic digital agricultural information easily accessible to all citizens of South Sudan.

Beyond his professional achievements, Duku has also exhibited exceptional academic prowess, emerging as the winner in two university-level competitive events during his undergraduate program.