Zeinab Abdullahi
Zeinab Abdullahi serves as the Director of Research & Resource Mobilization at ASAL iLab, where she leads the organization's research, strategic partnerships, grant development, and resource mobilization efforts to expand access to education, innovation, and economic opportunities for underserved communities across the Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASALs).
An accomplished education activist and women's rights advocate, Zeinab is passionate about advancing inclusive education, gender equality, and youth empowerment. She holds a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) in English Literature and a Master of Arts (M.A.) in Peace and Security Studies, bringing together expertise in education, policy, peacebuilding, and community development.
At ASAL iLab, she drives evidence-based programme design, develops strategic partnerships with governments, development agencies, private sector organizations, and donors, and leads resource mobilization initiatives that strengthen the organization's impact and sustainability. Her work focuses on creating opportunities that empower women, girls, and young people through education, digital skills, leadership development, entrepreneurship, and innovation.
Beyond her role at ASAL iLab, Zeinab is the Founder of Afnan Women Initiative, a community-based organization dedicated to promoting girls' education, women's leadership, and gender equality. Her commitment to advancing women's participation in peace and development has earned continental recognition through her inclusion in the African Union Commission and United Nations Office to the African Union publication She Stands for Peace, which celebrates African women making outstanding contributions to the Women, Peace and Security agenda.
Zeinab believes that sustainable development begins with equitable access to education, empowered communities, and inclusive leadership. Through research, collaboration, and innovative partnerships, she continues to champion initiatives that create lasting opportunities and transform lives across Kenya and beyond.