Judith Ogana

Programme Specialist for Culture | @UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa

Judith Ogana is a cultural policy expert and creative economy leader with over two decades of experience in arts, culture, and heritage across Africa. Since 2017, she has served as the Programme Specialist for Culture at the UNESCO Regional Office for Eastern Africa, where she oversees cultural initiatives across 13 countries. Her work focuses on strengthening regional cooperation, safeguarding tangible and intangible heritage, and advancing sustainable development in the cultural and creative sectors.

Judith is known for her expertise in stakeholder engagement and partnership development, having collaborated extensively with governments, United Nations agencies, and civil society organizations. She has led complex multi-country programs that support cultural diversity, creative industries, and heritage preservation.

Before joining UNESCO, Judith held key leadership positions including General Manager and Programs Coordinator at the GoDown Arts Centre (2005–2017), Director of Kuona Trust (1998–2004), and Regional Manager for Communications and Resource Mobilization at Aga Khan University (2004–2005).

She holds a Master’s degree in Global Business and Sustainability from the Catholic University of Milan, a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts Education from Kenyatta University, and is a Fellow of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C. She has also received certifications in arts management, climate action for sustainable heritage conservation, and leadership.

Passionate about cultural advocacy, Judith continues to champion the growth of Africa’s heritage, cultural, and creative industries.