Summer Institute in Computational Social Science

People

Faculty

Prof. Alfred Agwanda

Professor Alfred Agwanda Otieno is an Associate Professor and Director of Research at the Population Studies and Research Institute, within the Department of Geography, Population and Environmental Studies, at the University of Nairobi. His areas of expertise include technical demography and policy analysis studies. His research focus has covered reproductive health, monitoring and evaluation of population and health programs. He has undertaken several researches involving primary as well as large scale secondary data, and these have been published. Professor Agwanda Otieno has co-authored several papers in peer reviewed international journals such as Social Science and Medicine, Journal of Biosocial Sciences, Demography India, and African Population Studies.

Dr. John Otieno Oredo

Dr. John Otieno Oredo Lectures in the Departments of Information Science and Management Science & Project Planning at the University of Nairobi (UoN) and previously served as a Research Associate at the Kenya Education Network (KENET) and Research Fellow at the Centre for Intellectual Property and Information Technology Law (Strathmore University). He holds a PhD degree in Business Administration specializing in Strategic Information Systems (University of Nairobi), MSc. IT (Strathmore University); and B.Ed. (Moi University). Dr. Oredo is trained in scientific communication and publishing; E-Learning Course Design (ETSU, PASGR) and Faculty Support in Online Course Development (EDUCAUSE). He is a Certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified in Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT), Big Data Engineer (IBM Certified) and Artificial Intelligence Analyst (IBM Certified). He also undertook a training in Supply Chain Resilience Management (Kuhne Logistics University-Germany). Dr. Oredo has published in refereed journals and is a reviewer of several ranked Information Systems journals and currently serves as a Senior Editor for the Information Technology & People Journal. Dr. Oredo and collaborators has attracted research grants from the British Council, Kuhne Foundation, DAAD, European Union, British Institute in Eastern Africa (BIEA) and SSHRC (Canada). Dr. Oredo is currently organizing a Summer Institute in Computational Social Science (SICSS). He is an active member of several local and international professional bodies: ISACA, KIM, CSK, PMI, and AIS (President AIS Eastern Africa Chapter)

Prof. Samuel Musili

Professor Samuel M. Mwalili is a distinguished academic and expert in Statistics and Mathematical Modeling, currently serving as a Professor of Statistics at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). He is also an adjunct Professor and Director of the Center for Health Analysis and Modeling at Strathmore University. With a career spanning decades, Professor Mwalili has made significant contributions to public health research and statistical analysis, particularly in infectious disease modeling and HIV/AIDS epidemiology. He has played a pivotal role in national health initiatives, including serving as the lead Modeling Expert for Kenya's second and third Modes of HIV Transmission studies in 2019 and 2023. His work with the National AIDS Control Council (NACC) since 2011 includes producing the biennial National HIV Estimates for Kenya. In 2020, he joined the National COVID-19 Modeling Technical Committee, showcasing his expertise in addressing emerging public health challenges.

Dr. Kathleen A. Anangwe

Dr. Kathleen Anangwe is a Seniour lecturer in the Department of Sociology, Social Work and African Women Studies, and an adjunct at the Centre for Human Rights and Peace - University of Nairobi, Kenya. She is a Development Sociologist specializing in the area of social inequalities especially those experienced by women and vulnerable groups. Her areas of interest include Research Methodology, Economic Sociology, Migration and the rights of vulnerable groups. Her research showcases various qualitative and quantitative techniques of studying the Social Condition while interfacing and critiquing the response of social systems and processes within social structures to emerging social forces. She is published and a member of the International Sociological Association (ISA) and Bioethics Society of Kenya.

Speakers

Dr. Mary Muyonga

Mary Muyonga is a demographer holding an MA and PhD in in Population Studies, from the Population Studies and Research Institute of the University of Nairobi, Kenya.She is an alumnus of the SICSS- Covenant program held in July 2022 in Nigeria (https://sicss.io/2022/covenant- university/people). She recently completed her doctoral studies researching on migration and inequality linkages in Kenya, and received a grant under the ARUA-Andrew Mellon foundation fellowship, to investigate emerging social issues in urban Africa. Her research interests include migration, mobility, urbanization, and policy linkages. Mary has authored several articles and co-authored book chapters. She is a member of the Union of African Population Studies (UAPS) and the International Union for the Scientific Study of Population (IUSSP).

Dr. Amos Langat

Amos holds a PhD in Mathematics Statistics option of Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences Technology and Innovation, a Masters of Science in Applied Statistics from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology and a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Mathematics from Kabarak University. He has made significant contributions to academia through his teaching roles at Maasai Mara University and Kabarak University. His research interests focus on statistical modeling in infectious diseases, calculus applications, and Bayesian perspectives on HIV risk factors. Amos has published numerous articles in reputable journals, highlighting his expertise in statistical analysis and modeling. Recognized for his excellence, he has received multiple scholarships and awards. Amos is also an alumnus of the Summer Institute in Computational Social Science (SICSS-ACCRA 2023), where he expanded his knowledge and network. Additionally, he actively participates in various professional societies and has attended numerous international workshops and conferences, furthering his knowledge and impact in the field.

Selina Atwani Ochukut

Selina is a computer science graduate from Masinde Muliro University of Science and technology in Kenya. She holds a master’s degree in information technology management from the University of Nairobi. She is currently pursuing a PhD in information systems at the University of Nairobi. Her research interests are in the areas of technology enhanced learning, learning analytics, machine learning application in health and education. Selina is currently working as a tutorial fellow at the University of Nairobi where she is involved in teaching undergraduate computer science students and carrying research in the various areas of computing. Selina has thought several data science short courses.

Teaching Assistants

EMMANUEL ODEMBA, University of Nairobi

Currently pursuing a PHD degree in Information Sciences at the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. Completed course work, at research stage. Working in the ICT sector in East Africa.

GEORGE ESHO, University of Nairobi

George Esho is a budding professional in the field of Information Science, currently pursuing his Bachelor’s degree at the University of Nairobi .With a strong foundation in ICT, George has gained hands-on experience in hardware maintenance, network management, software configuration, and IT support during his industrial attachment at the Postal Corporation of Kenya. He is particularly passionate about programming, with a keen interest in Python, and aspires to specialize in data science. George is driven by the potential of data-driven solutions to transform industries and is eager to explore innovative applications of technology in solving real-world problems. Committed to continuous learning and professional growth, George aims to make significant contributions to the ICT sector by leveraging his technical expertise and programming skills to advance the field of data science.

ALEX MWANZIA MUTUKU, University of Nairobi

My name is Alex Mwanzia Mutuku, a fourth-year student at the University of Nairobi pursuing a Bachelor of Information Science. I have a strong passion for technology and data management, with expertise in data science and Python programming. Through my studies, I have developed skills in data analysis, visualization, and machine learning, enabling me to solve real-world problems and contribute to data-driven decision-making. My academic journey has equipped me with knowledge in information systems and resource management, preparing me for the dynamic challenges in this field. I am dedicated to leveraging technology to create innovative and efficient solutions. As I approach the end of my studies, I look forward to applying my skills and knowledge to drive positive impact in the information science and data management sectors.

TASSY MURIITHI, University of Nairobi

I am a dedicated 4th-year student at the University of Nairobi, pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Information Science. With a strong passion for knowledge and innovation.As a team player who is both kind and humble, I bring collaboration and intentionality to every project I undertake. My commitment to excellence and a deep curiosity drive me to give my best in every task, ensuring quality outcomes and continuous personal growth. My ability to combine diligence, adaptability, and a strong sense of purpose makes me a valuable contributor in any environment I engage with.

NICOLE MWAURA, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

My name is Nicole Mwaura, a passionate individual dedicated to creating sustainable, data-driven solutions that drive positive change. With a background in actuarial science, I thrive on analyzing complex systems and developing innovative strategies. Currently my focus is on leveraging data to identify emerging trends and create strategies that promote financial security and resilience. Whether it’s designing new products, refining models, or addressing emerging risks, I am committed to delivering impactful and practical solutions. My analytical mindset also extends to research, where I enjoy uncovering insights that inform strategic decisions and foster innovation. Beyond my professional endeavors, I’m deeply motivated by the principles of effective altruism, which guide my efforts to make a meaningful, evidence-based impact on the world. I believe in using reason and data to drive decisions that create the greatest possible good. In my free time, I enjoy reading, learning, and staying active through lawn tennis and chess—two hobbies that fuel my competitive spirit and strategic thinking. I’m always eager to connect with like-minded individuals to collaborate, share ideas, and contribute to building a better, more resilient world.

Participants

Zadok Maingi, SEKU

Mr. Zadok Maingi holds a Master of Science in Public Health Nutrition and BSc. Human Nutrition and Dietetics both from Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology, Kenya. He currently works for South Eastern Kenya University in the department of Food Science, Nutrition and Technology. Mr. Maingi has a great passion for research and community service. His research interests include maternal and young child nutrition, food security, agri-nutrition, food systems and climate change. Mr. Maingi is a certified Publons Peer Reviewer academy graduate, has served as a senior journal reviewer for African Journal of Food, Agriculture, Nutrition and Development (AJFAND) and also serves as a reviewer for the African Journal of Bioethics. He is skilled in data analysis using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and has basics in R programming language. He looks forward to learning more skills in computational social sciences and applicability of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in research from the Summer Institute in Computational Social Sciences (SICCS)

WALTER OKONGO, Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, Technology and Innovation

I am a PhD student in Mathematics with focus on biomathematics and analysis of infectious diseases. I have strong interest in studying and understanding how mathematics play a role in different societal aspects of human life and how mathematics can used to improve human livelihoods.

LESTER KILUMA,University of Nairobi

My name is Lester Kiluma, a holder of bachelor of science in meteorology from the University of Nairobi and currently pursuing a masters of science in meteorology at the same institution. At the moment, I am finalizing on my dissertation that incorporates climate modeling under NEX-GDDP-CMIP6 global circulation models and knits it to extremes in weather for regional context with agricultural sector at the core. My interests have been to apply the scientific knowledge in solving local and regional key issues while leveraging on informed evidence based scientific research. What matters of them all is how then Am I able to communicate this scientific information to the policy makers so as to aid in dissemination and ameliorating the impacts associated with it. In dealing with large climate datasets, it calls for great computational skills so as to be able to effectively manipulate the datasets and deduce findings from them in a fast and efficient manner. This is where data analysis in python is a competent skillset to aide in my research as I advance in the early career scientist field. All and sundry; dynamical modeling, climate change and air quality sets the pace as my areas of interest in research.

EDWIN MUTENDWA, University of Nairobi

Edwin Mutendwa is a skilled data scientist and health economist with expertise in health financing, data analytics, and policy development. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Finance, is a Certified Public Accountant (CPAK), and has advanced training in data science. Currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Health Economics and Policy at the University of Nairobi, Edwin is deeply committed to using data-driven insights to enhance healthcare systems and achieve sustainable solutions.

Dr. Cynthia Atamba, Ph.D, University of Science and Technology of China

Cynthia Atamba is a highly dedicated and experienced researcher and academic professional with a passion for creating a safe and decent work environment. She holds a PhD in Business Administration from the University of Science and Technology of China. With a focus on employee well-being, Atamba’s research interests span a range of topics, including emotions, mistreatment, and coping strategies. She has published extensively in peer-reviewed academic journals. Atamba is also actively engaged in community development initiatives and has served as a consultant for various international organizations. She is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion in academia and works tirelessly to mentor and support underrepresented students in her field.

LAMECK ONDIEKI AGASA, Kisii University

Lameck Ondieki Agasa is a dedicated academician and researcher with extensive expertise in statistical analysis and research methodologies. Lameck holds an MSc in Applied Statistics from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, as well as a BSc in Applied Statistics with Computing from Maasai Mara University. His research interests encompass Bayesian modeling, multivariate analysis, computational methods, and stochastic processes, with significant contributions in biomedical research, health education program evaluation, and the socio-economic factors influencing health outcomes. Lameck has actively engaged in teaching, research supervision, and community outreach initiatives at Kisii University, where he serves as a Tutorial Fellow.

MARTIN MANG'ENI NANJE, University of Nairobi

I am a passionate Environmental and Bio-Systems Engineer with expertise in agricultural engineering, environmental conservation, and sustainable technology development. He is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Environmental and Bio-Systems Engineering at the University of Nairobi, focusing on optimizing mechanized potato harvesting technology for small and medium-scale farms in Kenya. I also hold an MSc in Agricultural Engineering from Don State Technical University, Russia, and a BSc in Environmental and Bio-Systems Engineering from the University of Nairobi. As the Founder and CEO of Sisili Agritech, I drive innovative agricultural solutions tailored to the needs of farmers across Kenya. I serve as a Knowledge Transfer Specialist and Part-Time Lecturer at the University of Nairobi, mentoring future engineers and contributing to cutting-edge research. His professional expertise spans agricultural mechanization, water resources and irrigation engineering, project management, agro-ecosystem development, and environmental impact assessment. I have led transformative projects, including the development of a hybrid energy-powered Smart Irrigation System under the African Agriculture Knowledge Transfer Partnership, aimed at promoting cost-effective and sustainable irrigation practices. A certified NEMA Lead Expert and active member of the Kenya Conservation Tillage Initiative, Martin is committed to advancing sustainable agriculture and environmental stewardship. He has authored multiple publications and frequently shares his work at national and international forums.

Evalyne Musyoka, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology

Evalyne Musyoka, a Statistician holds an MSc in Applied Statistics from JKUAT and a BSc in Actuarial Sciences from the University of Eldoret. With experience as an Assistant Lecturer and Data Analyst, geo-spatial analysis, Bayesian modeling, and teaching statistical concepts. She is currently a Research assistant in a research center in ZETECH University.

FA NDIRANGU NGUNJIRI, University of Nairobi

FA Ndirangu Ngunjiri (MKIM, IoD) is a partner and a senior Investment Analyst with Watermark Consultants. He is a Doctoral (Finance & Accounting) fellow at the University of Nairobi with a research interest in; inequality & poverty, cyber security, innovations, and climate change. He is a published researcher and has presented at local and international conferences. He is currently working on a study that analyzes data from mobile loan platforms and their impact on market performance, showcasing how digital data can be leveraged to understand economic trends and challenges in real time. This aligns with the digital focus on utilizing data and technology for financial analysis. He enjoys rock climb, and mountain climbing in 2023, he climbed Mt Kilimanjaro for the second time and is a Rotarian, Rotary Club of Nairobi Madaraka. You can reach him on: ndi@watermarkconsultants.com, Twitter: @ndi70, https://www.linkedin.com/in/fa-ndirangu-ngunjiri-iia-mkim-iodk-44a86731/

LEAH JEROTICH MURKOMEN, University of Nairobi

I am an Early-Career Researcher and a professional social scientist. I am a PhD student at the University of Nairobi, Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and my thesis title is Sociology-Economic Effects of Climate Variability on the Marginalized group in Turkana County and Policy Options to Enhance Resilience. I am deeply committed and focused to advancing research in areas of climate resilience that will address challenges that are currently being faced by youth in the horn of Africa and Africa at large.

CHRISTOPHER NDILI, University of Nairobi

Christopher Ndili has a deep-rooted love for microbiology, while he sits atop an intersection of biology and computational science to unlock the secrets of microbial life in combat against the global threat of AMR. Chris is now an MSc Bioinformatics student with a keen interest in computational social science, microbiology, and great dedication to fighting antimicrobial resistance. He has a passion for the understanding of complex systems using computational tools to not only understand microbial genomics but also broader implications of human behaviour and society trends, most especially towards health and public policy. Besides academic and activist work, Chris has a deep love for poetry. This hobby serves as an outlet for creative expression and is also used as a source of personal reflection and inspiration. Nature, science, and human resilience are some of the themes that often find a place in Chris's poetic works, hence offering a creative perspective on a world of data and science.

PHYLLYS WAFULA, University of Nairobi

My name is Phyllys Wafula, a teacher by profession, working with the Teachers' Service Commission (TSC) of Kenya. I have worked with the TSC since 2013 as secondary school teacher in Bungoma County at a school called St.Teresa's Kabula Boy's High School.

MAKAMBI ABUGA DENNIS, Kisii University

My name is Makambi Abuga Dennis, from Kisii County-Kenya. I have a masters Degree of Mathematical Statistics majoring Population Genetics with a background of Applied Statistics. i currently work as an adjunct Lecturer at Kisii University. Academically i have published a journal entitled; Imputation method on Hardy Weinberg Equilibrium with missing genome-wide expression data. I have gained much experience in data mining, entry, analysis using softwares such as python,R-program and SPSS.

LUCY MWAURA, University of Nairobi

I am Lucy Mwaura, an academic with a solid foundation in Computer Science and Information Technology. My educational journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Chuka University, where I developed a passion for technology and innovation. I furthered my studies by earning a Master’s degree in Information Technology Management from the University of Nairobi, equipping me with advanced skills in IT leadership and systems management. Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in Computer Science, focusing on artificial intelligence, gamification, and big data analytics. Professionally, I have over seven years of experience in higher education, teaching and mentoring students. I currently serve as a Tutorial Fellow at Africa Nazarene University, a position I have held since September 2022. Additionally, I have worked as an adjunct lecturer at several institutions, including Machakos University, Kiriri Women’s University of Science and Technology, Multimedia University, KCA University, and Umma University. These roles have allowed me to refine my teaching methods and positively impact my students’ academic and personal growth. My educational background and job experience reflect my dedication to lifelong learning and my commitment to empowering the next generation of innovators.

ISABELLA MULAMA, MASINDE MULIRO UNIVERSITY

An undergraduate degree in Education Arts, English/Literature, A masters degree in comparative literature and a doctorate degree in Literature.

DR. BULINDA MAJOR VINCENT, Kisii University

Dr. Bulinda is an accomplished applied mathematician specializing in health informatics, recognized for his significant contributions across multiple domains, including computational fluid dynamics, computer science, and health systems. He employs mathematical modelling and computational techniques to uncover innovative solutions to complex challenges. Dr. Bulinda earned his Ph.D. in Applied Mathematics from JKUAT, along with an MSc. in Applied Mathematics from the same institution and a BSc. in Mathematics and Physics from UEAB. Additionally, he completed a post-master fellowship focused on Healthcare Capacity Building for Sustainable Development, with an emphasis on Health Informatics at the University of Nairobi. Throughout his academic career, he has established a robust foundation in various mathematical disciplines, such as calculus, dynamical systems, and differential equations, along with their practical applications. Furthermore, he has developed expertise in programming languages including MATLAB, R, and FLUENT, which serve as essential tools for numerical simulations and analyses.

NOEL LIKALAMU, University of Nairobi

I am a dedicated social scientist with a solid foundation in sociology and medical sociology, specializing in public health research. My work focuses on examining healthcare disparities and understanding the social determinants of health that influence access, quality, and outcomes of care. With a passion for addressing systemic inequities, I am committed to advancing health equity through evidence-based research, policy advocacy, and innovative solutions that promote inclusive and equitable healthcare systems.

BENJAMIN CHUKWU,University of Nairobi

Benjamin Chukwu is a PASET RSIF PhD Scholar at the University of Nairobi, specialising in renewable energy. He is passionate about leveraging computational methods to deepen his understanding of complex scientific phenomena. With a strong commitment to using computational expertise and data-driven approaches, Benjamin aims to address energy challenges and develop sustainable energy solutions.

ANITA NYABOKE, University of Nairobi

Dr. Anita is a registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) with interests in chronic disease prevention and management. She is currently a research fellow and Centre manager at the African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) - Centre of Excellence for Non-Communicable Diseases at the University of Nairobi. Anita has experience in nutrition management and education in various contexts such as; clinical experience working at Mbagathi District Hospital, Nairobi, working in Community projects - managing food relief projects and vocational training in Mogadishu, Somalia, Consultancy at UNICEF in development of recommendations for policy development and revision and in Academia - guiding students at Kyoto University, Japan and providing online classes -The National Taiwan University, Wellness lounge, Pakistan and Buuruj Training Institute in Kenya. Anita undertook a fellowship of the Kyoto University Inter-Graduate School program for sustainable and survivable societies (2016-2021) and is a board-certified Lifestyle Medicine professional (2020).Besides professional endeavours, Anita enjoys making presentations and cookery demonstrations to individuals and community groups through PRIMIA Health Co., travelling experiences, making friends and learning new things. 'The doctor of the future will no longer treat the human frame with drugs, but rather will cure and prevent disease with nutrition”-Thomas Edison (1903).'

SIFUNA MAXWELL, Kenyatta University

I am currently a Volkswagen Ph.D. fellow in the Field of Urban and Regional Planning at Kenyatta University, Geography Department, Kenya working on a project titled “Land Acquisitions and Rising Inequalities in East Africa”. I am also a holder of a Master of Arts (M.A) in Geography from Kenyatta University, Kenya, specializing in Urban and Regional Planning as well as a holder of a Bachelor of Education Arts (Bed) from the University of Nairobi, Kenya majoring in Geography and Business Studies as my teaching subjects. Professionally, I am a certified and qualified teacher, registered by the Teachers Service Commission (TSC) of Kenya with 10 years of cumulative experience in public and private Kenya secondary schools. My work experience spans Education practice and academia. I have previously worked as a Teacher of Geography at St Hannahs High School, Friends Secondary School Bwake in Kitale, Dadaab Secondary School in Garissa and Cardinal Otunga Girls High School in Bungoma. Additionally, I have also worked as a part-time lecturer at Kibabii University as well as a Tutor at Bungoma National Polytechnic.

JAMES KARANJA, University of Nairobi

I am a dedicated professional with expertise in medicinal chemistry, computational chemistry, and synthetic chemistry, with a focus on developing new molecules for pharmaceutical applications, particularly in treating fungal infections. My work involves a blend of theoretical and hands-on research, leveraging computational tools to predict molecular interactions and validate them through synthesis and laboratory testing. I am passionate about contributing to drug discovery by identifying novel compounds that address pressing health challenges. My background in analytical chemistry, organic and inorganic chemistry, and industrial analysis provides a solid foundation for this work. I have also implemented Health and Safety strategies at various workplaces by conducting risk assessments, developing Health and Safety policies, suggesting possible control measures to be implemented to reduce the risks, and regularly monitoring and reviewing the health and safety performance of the organization. I have ensured the continuous improvement of health and safety strategies by staying up-to-date with the latest regulations, industry best practices, and technological advancements.

Summer Institutes in Computational Social Science University of Nairobi | Mathematica