Cynthia Akinyi Waggah (She/Her)
Public Administrator | Community Leader | Founder & Director, Afrikana CIC

Cynthia Akinyi Waggah is a seasoned public administrator, community leader and social impact practitioner with over a decade of experience spanning Government services, Non-governmental Organisations and community development initiatives. She is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Public Administration at the University of Birmingham, building on her academic foundation in Political Science, Sociology and Communications from the University of Nairobi, Kenya.

Cynthia has served in senior positions within the Government of Kenya’s Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government Functions, where she provided leadership in national development projects, coordinated border management programmes and contributed to security and peacebuilding initiatives.

Her work included policy formulation as part of the Border Management Secretariat, collaboration with international partners such as the US Customs and Border Protection and GIZ and supervision of staff, assets and cross-departmental operations.

Beyond government, Cynthia has experience in grants administration with Rafiki Wa Maendeleo Trust, where she supported programme development, donor reporting and grant compliance.

Her early career included customer service roles with South African Airways and Flowerwings Kenya Ltd, strengthening her communication, client relations and operations management skills.

She is currently the Chairperson of the Cumberland Sanctuary Network, where she provides strategic leadership, financial oversight and governance support for a community-based charity.
Cynthia is also the Founder and Director of Afrikana CIC, a community interest company
dedicated to creating inclusive, culturally rich and safe spaces that promote wellbeing, creativity and social cohesion. Afrikana CIC’s programmes include:

Mental Health Clubs – providing peer support and wellbeing activities.Arts & Crafts for All Ages – fostering creativity and intergenerational exchange.
Monthly Film Nights – exploring culture, identity, and community through cinema.
Weekly Afro-Social Events – celebrating African and Caribbean heritage through food, music, and dialogue.
Bi-Annual Large Community Events – festivals and gatherings bringing diverse communities together.

Community Space Hire – providing accessible venues for grassroots projects.
Informal Coffee Mornings – nurturing connections and open conversations.
Afrikana CIC’s work is made possible through the efforts of volunteers, young people, families, and community leaders who share Cynthia’s passion for inclusion, resilience, and cultural celebration.

With strong communication skills, proven leadership, and a deep commitment to public service, Cynthia continues to use her expertise in project management, governance, and community engagement to drive meaningful change. She is passionate about empowering communities, tackling social inequalities, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive.