Witola Francis
Summary
A seasoned Agriculture Economist with over 23 years of hands-on experience spanning business management, financial acumen, project leadership, Livestock management and veterinary care. Proficient in analyzing market dynamics, developing growth-focused strategies, and fostering sustainable agricultural practices, I have consistently delivered results in diverse roles. My ability to translate data into actionable insights, coupled with a dedication to animal welfare and agricultural sustainability, underscores my commitment to excellence. Whether it's overseeing projects, conducting market research, or managing resources, I excel in roles demanding strong leadership, problem-solving, and a relentless pursuit of success.
Overview
23
23
years of professional experience
5
5
Languages
Work History
District Fisheries and Livestock Coordinator
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
01.2024 - Current
- Developing and implementing policies and strategies related to fisheries and livestock management
- Overseeing and coordinating the Planning, Monitoring and evaluation of fisheries and livestock projects and programs in the District
- Conducting research and analysis to identify opportunities for improving fisheries and livestock production and management practices
- Collaborating with government agencies, NGOs and other stakeholders to coordinate efforts in fisheries and livestock development
- Managing Budgets, resources and procurement related to fisheries and livestock activities
- Ensuring compliance with relevant laws, regulations and standards in fisheries and livestock operations
- Monitoring and reporting on the performance and impact of fisheries and livestock projects
- Building capacity and providing training to staff, partners, and community members on fisheries and livestock best practices
- Promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in fisheries and livestock management.
- Improved team productivity with regular communication and progress updates, fostering a collaborative work environment.
Director
Man west Enterprise
01.2011 - Current
- Spearhead the operation and marketing of diverse agricultural products
- Deliver comprehensive training to farmers, equipping them with essential crop and livestock management skills
- Exercise effective supervision and training of personnel to ensure streamlined operations.
District Fisheries and Livestock Marketing Development Officer
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
01.2022 - 01.2023
- Responsible for overseeing and executing the development and implementation of fishery and livestock business programs within the district
- Supervise and execute the timely collection, analysis, and dissemination of fishery and livestock market information within the district
- Identify and develop trade promotion programs within the district to facilitate domestic and international trade in fishery and livestock products
- Facilitate the rehabilitation and construction of marketing infrastructure within the district to improve market access
- Effectively coordinate the development of sustainable agriculture financing and credit systems within the district
- Implement comprehensive monitoring and evaluation processes for agribusiness and marketing programs within the district.
Senior Laboratory Technician
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
09.2011 - 01.2022
- Conducted in-depth Veterinary Disease Diagnoses with precision
- Efficiently managed daily laboratory operations
- Supervised and provided comprehensive training to laboratory staff, fostering skill development
- Implemented performance management strategies to optimize team efficiency
- Enforced stringent quality control measures to ensure compliance with established standards.
Veterinary Assistant
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
01.2001 - 01.2011
- Conducted extensive training sessions on livestock management and disease control
- Administered clinical treatments to sick animals upon farmer requests
- Managed routine vaccination campaigns to safeguard livestock health.
Education
BSc Agriculture Economics -
Zambian Open University
01.2019
Diploma in Laboratory Technology -
Evelyn Hone College
01.2008
Advanced Certificate in Laboratory Science -
Evelyn Hone College
01.2007
Certificates in General Agriculture -
Z.C.A Mpika
01.2000
Skills
- Proficient in assessing the economic viability of agricultural projects and making data-driven recommendations for optimization
- Experienced in diagnosing and managing livestock diseases, implementing preventative measures, and treatment protocols
- Skilled in overseeing breeding programs to improve livestock genetics and productivity
- Proficient in monitoring and ensuring the health, well-being, and proper care of livestock
- Skilled in diagnosing and managing diseases in livestock, contributing to animal health
- Proficient in maintaining and enforcing quality standards to ensure compliance
- Experienced in livestock management practices, including care, nutrition, and breeding
- Good at delivering training programs to farmers and staff to enhance their knowledge and skills
- Proficient in implementing monitoring and evaluation processes to assess program effectiveness and make necessary improvements
- Proficiency in collecting various types of data, such as quantitative data (measurements, surveys) and qualitative data (interviews, observations)
- Skilled in using data analysis tools and software (eg, Excel, SPSS) to process and interpret data
- Proficient in four languages: Bemba, Lozi, Nyanja, and English, facilitating effective communication across diverse cultural contexts
Affiliations
- Associate of the Veterinary Council of Zambia
- Current President of Veterinary Para professional Association of Zambia
Professional Training Certifications
- Certificate in Monitoring and Evaluation, University of Zambia (2020)
- Certificate in Project Management, Mirror Publishing (2020)
- Certificate in Data Analysis with SPSS, University of Zambia (2020)
- Class CA Drivers License Manual
References
- Dr. Aaron Chansa, Director- National Action for Quality Education in Zambia, aaronchansa80@gmail.com, +260979552885
- Dr. Habeenzu Simamba, Provincial Coordinator - Peace Corps Zambia, habeenzusimamba@gmail.com, +260979375157
- Professor Stanley Nyirenda, Senior Research Scientist - Central Veterinary Research Institute, Lusaka, stanleynyirenda@yahoo.co.uk, +260977801323
Work Preference
Work Type
Full TimeContract WorkPart TimeWork Location
On-SiteRemoteImportant To Me
Career advancementPersonal development programs401k matchWork Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
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Timeline
District Fisheries and Livestock Coordinator
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
01.2024 - Current
District Fisheries and Livestock Marketing Development Officer
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
01.2022 - 01.2023
Senior Laboratory Technician
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
09.2011 - 01.2022
Director
Man west Enterprise
01.2011 - Current
Veterinary Assistant
Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock
01.2001 - 01.2011
BSc Agriculture Economics -
Zambian Open University
Diploma in Laboratory Technology -
Evelyn Hone College
Advanced Certificate in Laboratory Science -
Evelyn Hone College
Certificates in General Agriculture -
Z.C.A Mpika
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