CECI Welcomes Four New Members on his Board of Directors

These professionals, from Latin America and Africa, bring diverse expertise and deep connections to various global contexts. This renewal marks a significant milestone for CECI, as its governance aligns with the goal of fostering inclusive and sustainable development through collaboration and the diversity of perspectives.

The Board of Directors plays a central role in advancing CECI's strategic priorities. This mission takes on a new dimension with the gradual internationalization of its membership, a process aimed at integrating leaders with varied expertise and backgrounds, to better reflect the communities and partners with which the organization collaborates.

This initiative aims to broaden strategic perspectives by integrating visions closely linked to the realities of the regions in which we operate. These appointments enhance CECI’s capacity to co-create innovative solutions with its global partners. By welcoming these new members, the organization reaffirms its commitment to making its governance mechanisms a true reflection of the values it upholds.

Meet the New Members

Ana Carolina Gonzalez Espinosa - Colombia

With a Ph.D. in Political Science and specialized expertise in natural resource governance, Ana Carolina Gonzalez Espinosa serves as Senior Program Director at the Natural Resource Governance Institute. In addition to her academic career and work for institutions such as the Ford Foundation and the IDB, she excels in sustainable development and energy transition. Based in Colombia, she brings a valuable regional perspective to the Board.

Cécilia Valdes Canales - Mexico

A specialist in sustainable innovation, Cécilia Valdes Canales combines a solid background in international business with a commitment to systems transformation. Responsible for innovation and sustainability at Yara for Mexico and Central America, she focuses on food security and regenerative agriculture. With an international career behind her, she embodies the dialogue between local and global challenges.

Mamadou Biteye - Zimbabwe

A graduate in agro-economics and an expert in rural finance, Mamadou Biteye is President and CEO of the African Capacity Building Foundation. His strategic leadership, enriched by over 10 years at Oxfam and senior roles at organizations such as the Rockefeller Foundation, offers a unique understanding of the public and private sectors in Africa. He embodies an innovative approach to international development.

Aïssatou Diouf - Senegal

Holding a master's degree in environmental information and communication as well as an MBA, Aïssatou Diouf is a prominent figure in climate diplomacy. As Head of International Policy at Enda Energie and Managing Director of Clim'Act, she applies her expertise to the energy transition and fight inequalities. Her commitment to civil rights and climate justice aligns perfectly with CECI's mission.