Meet the team!
TEAM MEMBERS
Thozi Ngeju: Makana Coordinator Thozi is a creative writer who has two short stories published. He has several productions that won Best Script for four years (2003, 4, 6 & 7). He currently works as Research Assistant for the CoE & MobiSAM Coordinator at the Rhodes University Computer Science Department. Working with disadvantaged communities has helped him understand what helps best when it comes to interpersonal communication skills
Hafeni Mthoko: Project strategist and evaluator. Hafeni is currently undertaking a post doctorate in the Information Systems Department at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa. Her PhD topic is titled “Outcome and Impact Assessment of Rural ICT4D projects based on a Comprehensive Evaluation.” Her research interests lie within the Information and Communications Technology for Development (ICTD) space with a focus on evaluation and impact assessments. She has a passion for making a difference in the lives of those less fortunate, which has been reflected in her involvement in various community engagement initiatives.”
Professor Caroline Khene: Co-Director & Strategy & Evaluation Manager Carol is an Associate Professor in the Department of Information Systems at Rhodes University, South Africa. Caroline has a background in Information Systems and Statistics, and a research interest in ICT4D, specifically focusing on Project Management and Evaluation. She also has an interest in supporting the development of upcoming African researchers, and hence also invests her time on the side on conducting research on the development of Higher Education in Africa. Her motto she runs by to overcome challenges is “Don’t follow life; let life follow you”
Rachel Sibande: Malawi Coordinator Rachel is a PhD candidate in Computer Science at Rhodes University within the MOBISAM project. Her research focuses on the use of mobile based technology solutions for citizen engagement. Rachel is piloting a technology platform in Malawi where citizens engage with local councils and service providers on service delivery of water, electricity and waste collection. Prior to this, Rachel has led the deployment of citizen engagement initiatives using technology during elections in Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania and Zambia.
Professor Hannah Thinyane: Co-Director. Hannah is a Visiting Professor in the information Systems Department at Rhodes University and the Project Director and Founder of MobiSAM. She has research interests in ICT for development, particularly in the use of mobile devices as a platform to provide services to previously underserved communities. Her PhD investigated the use of technology to support interaction in multiple display environemnts such as command and control centres.
Hancu Louw: Communication and Citizen Engagement Officer
Mwazvita Machiri: Project strategist and evaluator Mwazvita is currently completing her Masters in Information Systems at Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa. The title of her thesis is “Aligning e-government Strategy with Innovative ICT for Citizen Engagement in Local Municipalities:The case study of Makana and Nkonkobe municipalities.” Her interests include ICT4D and citizen engagement
Joshua Osah: Project strategist and evaluator. Joshua is currently completing a PhD in Information Systems at Rhodes University, Grahamstown South Africa . The title of his doctorate is “A Systems-Thinking Approach to Designing Local E-Government Strategy for Water Service Delivery in Developing Countries.”
