Mojeeb Stanikzai is ICARDA’s Project Manager – Research for Development and currently serves as the Interim UAE Country Coordinator. He brings more than 23 years of experience leading large‑scale, donor‑funded development and research programs across the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia. At ICARDA, he manages the multi-partner Consortium for Red Palm Weevil Control (C4RPWC), overseeing strategic planning, program governance, partner coordination, and delivery of integrated pest management research in the UAE and the wider region.
Before joining ICARDA, Mr. Stanikzai held senior leadership roles with international organizations, including DAI Global, Winrock International, DT Global, and the International Rescue Committee. He has directed portfolios exceeding $270 million, secured over $52 million in new funding, and led multicultural teams of up to 600 staff across complex environments. His experience spans agricultural research-for-development (R4D), governance reform, infrastructure revitalization, and institutional capacity strengthening.
Mr. Stanikzai holds a Master’s degree in Comparative Local Development from the University of Trento (Italy), an MD from the Kabul Medical Institute, and is PMP-certified. He is recognized for his ability to build strong government partnerships, manage multi-country initiatives, and deliver impactful development and research outcomes in support of national priorities.