Kayan Akram Jaff

Senior international development professional and diplomat with over 25 years of leadership experience in the United Nations system and the GCC region. Expert in food security, sustainable agriculture, climate change, and rural development, with a strong record of advising governments and donor agencies, including UAE-based aid institutions. Proven ability in programme design, monitoring & evaluation (M&E), donor coordination, and results-based management (RBM). Skilled in resource mobilization, multilateral negotiations, and partnership building with governments, the private sector, and international organizations. Recognized for aligning initiatives with UAE foreign aid priorities, the SDGs, and climate-resilient development strategies.

• Strategic Advisory to GCC Governments and UAE Aid Institutions (2024–2025, FAO Sub-Regional Coordinator a.i.) – Delivered high-level policy advice on food security, climate-resilient agriculture, and donor coordination, aligning national programmes with GCC priorities and the SDGs.
• Programme Design & Evaluation (2011–2023, FAO Senior Policy Adviser) – Advised governments of Iraq, Syria, Jordan, and Egypt on the formulation and assessment of donor-funded programmes in agriculture, food security, and rural development.
• Donor Engagement & Resource Mobilization (2005–2011, FAO Representative UAE) – Developed strategic partnerships with UAE aid agencies, Qatar, and GCC institutions, mobilizing resources and securing donor commitments for FAO’s regional programmes.
• Renewable Energy & Agriculture Linkages (2007–2010, UN Resident Coordinator a.i.) – Advised UAE government entities and donors on integrating alternative energy solutions with agricultural development, contributing to sustainable innovation strategies.
• Private Sector & Foundation Engagement (2000–2002, FAO HQ Rome) – Promoted public–private partnerships and alliances with foundations and NGOs, expanding FAO’s funding base through non-traditional donors.
• Emergency Response & Recovery Advisory (1993–1995, FAO Sudan) – Coordinated FAO’s role in humanitarian relief and recovery, balancing immediate response with longer-term resilience building for national institutions.