User:Tabithagitonga

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Created page with 'Overview Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini is an Agricultural expert, educator, PhD holder in Botany (plant pathology), and passionate community leader from Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini life’s journey has been shaped by resilience, lifelong learning, and a deep commitment to empowering others through education, agriculture, and service. Biography Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini was born on February 15, 1966, in the heart of Chuka, Thara...'

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Overview

Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini is an Agricultural expert, educator, PhD holder in Botany (plant pathology), and passionate community leader from Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini life’s journey has been shaped by resilience, lifelong learning, and a deep commitment to empowering others through education, agriculture, and service.


Biography

Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini was born on February 15, 1966, in the heart of Chuka, Tharaka Nithi County, into a humble hardworking family of farmers and she is currently married to Mr. Patrick Gitonga.

As one of twelve children, She grew up surrounded by love, faith, and determination—qualities that would later define her purpose in life. Despite facing health challenges early on, She remained focused on her education and future.

Her academic journey began at Iruku Primary School in 1976. She later attended Kiini High School, where she graduated in 1987. She then enrolled at Kilifi Institute of Agriculture, where she built a strong foundation in agricultural practice and community extension.

Over the years, her passion for knowledge led her to further her studies. She earned Bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Kenya Methodist University, followed by a Master’s degree in Botany from Chuka University (2019–2021). She most recently completed her PhD in Botany(Plant Pathology) at Chuka University, from January 2022 to November 2024—a journey that reflects her unwavering belief in the power of education to transform lives.


Work & Profession

Professionally, Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini has served as a Senior Agriculture Officer, and have been privileged to work with several impactful organisations, including:

• Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
• Centre for Agriculture and Bioscience International (CABI)
• SHEP Biz (Smallholder Horticulture Empowerment and Promotion)
• NAVCDP (National Agricultural Value Chain Development Project)
• Community radio programs focused on farmer education

Through these partnerships, She has led numerous initiatives focused on empowering farmers, promoting agribusiness, and advancing sustainable agriculture. In 2024, She was honoured nationally as the Best Extension Officer under the SHEP Biz program, a proud moment that recognized her excellence in field-based agricultural extension and community impact. That same year, She was elected as a Professional Expert under the NAVCDP, affirming her leadership and technical expertise in guiding Kenya’s agricultural value chain development.

These recognitions reflect not only her professional dedication, but also her unwavering commitment to transforming lives through agriculture.

Leadership & Community Service
Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini believes leadership means serving others. That belief has guided her work in school governance, where she served and still serving as:

• PTA Chairperson and Board of Management Member at Njuri High School (since 2019)
• Board member at Mwonge Junior Academy and Rev. Ikingi Boarding School

In the faith and spiritual realm, She has led:
• The Boys and Girls Brigade for over 15 years
• The Women’s Guild for 14 years
• She has also served as Chairlady of Deacons in her church and lead the Kind Parents initiative

Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini is proud to be a member of Meru Agriculture Professionals and Gideon’s International, where she continue to learn and serve in faith and professional excellence.

Family & Legacy

Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini dedication to education is not just professional—it’s deeply personal. Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini takes pride in raising a family that values knowledge and hard work. One of his sons graduated with First Class Honours, while her daughter earned a Second Class Honours degree in English Literature and is now pursuing a Master’s degree in Linguistics. Their success is a reflection of the values she strives to uphold—resilience, excellence, and continuous growth.

Mission

Today, Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini continue to inspire, mentor, and uplift others—especially women, youth, and farmers—through a life that blends academic advancement, spiritual leadership, and community engagement. Whether in classrooms, farms, boardrooms, or prayer meetings, Dr. Gitonga Tabitha Kanini believe every moment is an opportunity to grow and give back.
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