Our People

Balentine is a Development Anthropologist and Qualitative Researcher serving at AFIDEP as a Research and Policy Associate – Evidence Uptake

With over nine years of experience in research, policy analysis, and programme management across the Horn of Africa, Balentine has designed and led interdisciplinary research on agri-food systems, climate change, rural livelihoods, water security, health, and natural resource governance. His work is rooted in participatory and interdisciplinary approaches that place gender, youth, and social dynamics at the centre of research design and analysis, recognising them as critical drivers of development outcomes.

Balentine holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Anthropology from the University of Nairobi and is awaiting graduation for a Master’s degree in Development Anthropology from the same institution.

Before joining AFIDEP, he worked as a resident and independent consultant for a range of international development organisations, including International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI), Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), UN Women, WorldFish, Action Against Hunger, Plan International, and World Vision.
Outside of his professional work, Balentine enjoys playing and watching football, travelling, and engaging in thoughtful conversations that offer deeper insights into how people understand and make sense of the world around them