Cynthia Mughogho is an accomplished Program Manager with over eleven years of experience leading multi-country programs in natural resource governance, climate resilience, and civic engagement across Southern Africa. She holds an M.Sc. in Strategic Management from the University of Derby, where her research examined the impacts of Foreign Direct Investment in Malawi’s mining sector, advocating for policies that balance economic growth with corporate social responsibility. She also holds a Bachelor of Education Science in Geography and Geology from the University of Malawi.

In her current role as Program Manager at IM Swedish Development Partner, Cynthia drives strategic planning, partner engagement, and partnership building. She has successfully led evidence-based policy solutions that promote social, economic and climate justice. A key advocate for gender mainstreaming in the extractives, Cynthia’s groundbreaking research in the mining sector has influenced policies to enhance gender equality and increase women’s participation in the extractive industries.

Her extensive professional development includes certifications in Climate Change Policy from Harvard University, Civic Leadership from the Young African Leaders Initiative, and advanced training in Natural Resource Governance from ETH Zurich. She has also earned qualifications from the University of Cape Town, with a certificate in Leadership in Extractives and African Development, and from Rhodes University, where she studied Fundamentals in Social Accountability Monitoring.

Cynthia’s expertise has earned her leadership roles in numerous initiatives, including serving as Lead Consultant for projects focused on enhancing transparency in critical minerals supply chains. A passionate advocate for sustainable development, she is a strong voice for natural resource governance, frequently representing civil society at international platforms and engaging with key stakeholders across government, NGOs, and the private sector to drive sustainable and equitable policy outcomes.