Nicole Ihirwe is a Food Systems Specialist for Lake Kivu, and the Rusizi Basin (LKR). In her role, Nicole will work closely with the Restoration Champions to support the integration of sustainable agricultural practices that enhance food productivity and contribute to land restoration.

Prior to joining WRI, Nicole worked as a business advisor at Agriterra, where she provided business development services to farmer cooperatives to enhance their operations. She is skilled in project coordination, business development, and training. Her work focused on food systems transformation, particularly improving agricultural value chains, strengthening market systems, and promoting sustainable farming practices.

Nicole holds a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness from the University of Rwanda and a MSc in Agricultural and Applied Economics from the University of Nairobi, Kenya.

In her spare time, Nicole enjoys traveling, gardening, and exploring nature.