Emmanuel Kishabongo Mukendi

Emmanuel Kishabongo Mukendi is a motivated, resourceful, and result-oriented legal professional with over 8 years of experience. In his current role as Country Representative for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Senior Associate - Legal at the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, he leads the overall operations of the country office, ensuring cohesive and integrated work among staff across various research programs and administrative units. He provides legal expertise specific to Africa, focusing on regional risk assessment, labor and tax law reviews, intellectual property, and corporate law management. Emmanuel is dedicated to mitigating legal risks and delivering high-level services efficiently and professionally. 

Emmanuel joined the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT in April 2023 as a Senior Associate - Legal, where he coordinated Host Country agreement renewal activities, engaged with the Government of the DR Congo on protocol-related issues, and represented the Alliance before various authorities. In November 2023, he advanced to the role of Country Representative & Senior Associate Legal. In this capacity, he provides leadership in the overall running of the country office, supervises administrative and financial aspects, ensures the good standing of the Alliance with the Government, and maintains positive visibility. 

Emmanuel holds a bachelor's degree in law (Private and Judiciary) from the University of Kinshasa, which he earned in 2004, and has been admitted to the practice of law at the Maniema Bar Association since 2016 (ONA 13572). His education has provided him with a solid foundation in legal principles, enabling him to effectively navigate complex legal landscapes and deliver high-quality legal services. Emmanuel is fluent and excellent in French, Lingala, and Swahili, and has very good (intermediate) proficiency in English.