Commissioner Sam Kona is a conflict resolution, governance and stability expert with over 25 years’ experience in public, private and civil society sectors. He has carried out extensive research and managed dozens projects in sub-Saharan Africa with particular focus on conflict early warning systems, post-conflict reconstruction, peacebuilding, mediation, governance and security. Sam has held senior leadership roles in government, including serving as Chairman of the National Council for Population and Development and Kerio Valley Development Authority.
A distinguished program leader, Sam has worked as a senior manager with international agencies and organizations such as the United States Agency for International Development, Development Alternatives Incorporated, Centre for Conflict Resolution at the University of Cape Town, South Africa, Chemonics International, Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue and Oxfam GB. While at the Centre for Conflict Resolution, he spearheaded national dialogue programs in Sudan, Swaziland, South Africa and Lesotho, in addition to facilitating dialogue and mediation trainings across Africa. Between 2008 and 2011, he led mediation processes and established peace caravans to support the Kofi Annan-mediated Kenya National Dialogue and Reconciliation process in the aftermath of the 2007-2008 post-election violence.
Sam played a major role in the development of conflict early warning mechanisms for Africa's Regional Economic Communities, as well as national early warning systems for Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, South Sudan and Sudan. He teaches conflict resolution and dialogue, negotiation and mediation at the Kenya School of Government (KSG) and the International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC), respectively.
Sam holds MA in Conflict Resolution from Lancaster University in the United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Education (Science) from Kenyatta University, Kenya. He has received many national and international awards and honours for contributions to the field of conflict resolution and peace processes, and efficient delivery of programs.
