Muthoni Masinde is a computer science professor and the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & IT, at the Central University of Technology, Free State, with a 25-year career spanning research, teaching, and leadership. She has earned degrees in Computer Science from the University of Nairobi, the Free University of Brussels, and the University of Cape Town, as well as an MBA from the University of the Free State. Recognised by South Africa’s National Research Foundation with a C2 rating, Masinde has published over 100 scientific works and mentored over 20 postgraduates.

As the founder of ITIKI, Masinde combines Information Technology with Indigenous Knowledge to create drought prediction tools, greatly benefiting small-scale farmers. Her pioneering research in artificial intelligence has brought her international recognition including the Distinguished Young Woman Scientist award by South Africa’s Department of Science and Technology (DST) in 2016 and a USD500,000 USAID grant.

Masinde is globally renowned as a speaker, advisor, and reviewer, participating in prestigious forums like the World Bank Food Security Forum and serving as an expert reviewer for the European Commission. She has delivered keynotes across the globe, made appearances on major media platforms like eNCA, CNN and BBC, and remains committed to sharing her expertise with small-scale farmers in Eastern and Southern Africa.