Research Fellow at University of Johannesburg, South Africa
Mr. Patrick Obunga is a seasoned Research Fellow and Civil Engineer with over 14 years of experience in WASH, climate change, energy, food security, and science, technology, and innovation (STI). He has led multidisciplinary research and development projects across sub-Saharan Africa, working with major donors such as the World Bank, UNDP, USAID, and UNESCO. Currently pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, he holds multiple postgraduate degrees and has published on emerging water technologies and digital innovation. Patrick is known for his leadership in research, resource mobilization, and capacity building through collaborative partnerships.
đź“šProfessional Profile
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🎓Academic Background
Mr. Patrick Obunga has a strong academic foundation that supports his multidisciplinary research and professional work. He is currently pursuing a PhD in Civil Engineering at the University of Johannesburg, South Africa. He holds an MSc in Civil Engineering and an MA in Project Planning and Management from the University of Nairobi. Additionally, he earned a Postgraduate Diploma in Project Management from the Kenya Institute of Management and a BSc in Agricultural Engineering from Egerton University. His diverse academic qualifications reflect a commitment to integrating engineering, management, and innovation in addressing complex development challenges across Africa and beyond.
đź’ĽProfessional Experience
Mr. Patrick Obunga brings over 14 years of extensive professional experience in research, engineering, and program management. He currently serves as a Research Fellow and Resource Mobilization Coordinator at the African Centre for Technology Studies, where he leads research on WASH, climate resilience, and digital innovation. He has previously held roles as Civil Engineer, Projects Engineer, and Monitoring & Evaluation Manager, contributing to projects across sub-Saharan Africa. His work with organizations such as World Bank, UNDP, USAID, and UNESCO demonstrates his expertise in donor-funded projects, infrastructure development, and capacity building through cross-sectoral collaboration and strategic implementation.
🏆Awards and Honors
Mr. Patrick Obunga has earned recognition for his dedication to impactful research and development in water, sanitation, climate resilience, and digital innovation. His work has been featured in respected journals such as npj Clean Water and Water Practice & Technology, reflecting his contributions to advancing water technologies and sustainability practices. He has led and supported projects funded by renowned international organizations including the World Bank, UNDP, USAID, and UNESCO. While formal individual awards are not listed, his consistent leadership in high-level research initiatives and collaboration with global partners highlight his reputation as a trusted and accomplished professional.
🔬Research Focus
Mr. Patrick Obunga’s research focuses on the intersection of water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), climate change, energy, food security, and digital innovation. He explores the use of emerging technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance water service delivery and reduce non-revenue water in urban systems. His work contributes to sustainable development by addressing critical challenges within the water-energy-food nexus and integrating science, technology, and innovation into practical solutions. Through collaborative research and policy-oriented projects, he aims to improve infrastructure resilience, promote environmental sustainability, and support data-driven decision-making across sub-Saharan Africa and beyond.
đź“‹Publication Top Notes
Quantification of water loss indices in a water distribution network: a case of water and sewerage company of Nairobi City, Kenya
Year: 2025 | Cited by: 1
Review of the emerging technologies in the water sector with a focus on the deployment of Internet of Things solutions
Year: 2025
Comparative analysis on deployment of Internet of Things in management of non-revenue water in water distribution networks
Year: 2025
Assessing Deployment of Emerging Innovations and Technologies in Catalysing Sustainable Water Services Provision in Nairobi City County, Kenya: Case of Soweto Kayole Jisomee Mita
Year: 2023 | Cited by: 1
Assessing Deployment of Science, Technology & Innovation in Catalysing Sustainable Water Services Provision in Nairobi City County, Kenya: Case of Soweto Kayole Jisomee Mita
Year: 2021
Public Water Supplies, Water Policy and Management of Multifaceted Water Resources in Mathare Slums, Nairobi City County, Kenya
Year: 2020
🏷️Conclusion
Mr. Patrick Obunga is a highly qualified and impactful researcher with over 14 years of experience in WASH, climate change, water engineering, and innovation policy, making him an outstanding candidate for the Best Researcher Award. His academic credentials, including an ongoing PhD in Civil Engineering and dual master’s degrees, demonstrate strong scholarly commitment. He has authored peer-reviewed publications in leading journals and contributed to groundbreaking research on IoT and sustainable water systems. With proven leadership in donor-funded projects, collaboration with global agencies, and a strong focus on sustainability and capacity building, Mr. Obunga exemplifies a well-rounded, solution-oriented researcher driving real-world impact.