Dr. Afia S. Zakiya

Dr. Afia S. Zakiya, an African-centered Political Ecologist, Cultural Scientist, and Africana Studies scholar-activist, brings over 25 years of expertise to the team. Holding a Ph.D. in Political Science from Clark Atlanta University, a Master's in Public Policy from Cal-State Hayward, and a BS in Business Administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia, Afia is a seasoned professional committed to addressing global issues affecting people of African descent.

​

As a Pan Africanist and International Relations expert, Afia actively engages in matters such as environmental justice, agroecology, and the human right to water and sanitation. Her extensive career includes roles as the immediate past Executive Director of the Africatown Heritage Preservation Foundation and Country Director for WaterAid Ghana. She is currently an independent scholar and consultant (AIDIKI) and a member of Afrospectives think tank (www.afrospectives.org), contributing significantly to the discourse on just, equitable solutions.

​

Afia's dedication is evident in her various roles, from serving as a Fulbright Specialist Scholar in Uganda to completing an 18-month Fellowship with the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Inc., in 2020. Her recent publication, "Water Justice, Reparations And Human Rights," demonstrates her commitment to advancing Black liberation through equitable policies. Inducted into the prestigious ICAP in 2003 for outstanding international development service, Afia continues her impactful work, currently focusing on a new book project addressing Africana environmental issues slated for release in 2024.