Chipo Tawanda Chimwanda is UNFPA Women X Collective Hub Management and Investment Portfolio Specialist, bringing over 17 years of experience in international development, resource mobilization, and strategic partnerships. He holds two master’s degrees—an MPhil in Development Finance and a Master of Development Studies. Prior to rejoining UNFPA, Chipo served as Regional Adviser for Resource Mobilization at UNAIDS for East and Southern Africa, where he played a pivotal role in advancing the global and regional non-core funding strategy. His leadership contributed significantly to diversifying and expanding UNAIDS’ funding base. Previously, Chipo was Resource Mobilization and Partnership Specialist at UNFPA’s East and Southern Africa Regional Office in Johannesburg. In this role, he led efforts that mobilized over $100 million annually in non-core funding across 23 countries. He also spearheaded the development of a regional resource mobilization strategy, managed a $30 million innovative financing portfolio, and forged impactful partnerships with the private sector.
Chipo’s earlier career includes key roles at WaterAid, where he served as Regional Funding Manager for Southern Africa and Acting Country Director for Madagascar. His strategic leadership helped grow WaterAid’s annual spending from £5 million to £20 million, while securing major funding from donors such as FCDO, USAID, and the African Development Bank. At ActionAid International South Africa, Chipo was Head of Sponsorship and Fundraising, where he successfully secured a £3 million investment fund to launch a new fundraising model. He began his development career with ActionAid Zimbabwe, laying the foundation for his long-standing commitment to sustainable development and equity.