Prof. Francis Onditi

He was recently enlisted as a distinguished research author and professor of research at the Institute for Intelligent Systems (IIS), University of Johannesburg, South Africa. He is the 2019 recipient of the AISA Fellowship awarded by the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), South Africa.

Prof. Onditi is a widely published pan-African researcher specializing in the geography of African conflict and evolutionary nature of conflict. He has published more than 70 articles in peer-reviewed journals, contributed 20 chapters to edited volumes, and authored/co-edited 6 university-level books.

Prof. Onditi’s research contribution is mainly in modeling, thinking uncharted models, and development of theoretical frameworks and concepts, including the ‘dominatarian theory of regional integration’, and ‘Technology for Peaceful Society’ (T4PS). His current professorial research focuses on “exploring the analytical conception of the closeness centrality, and its implications for a theory of interactivities for enhancing understanding of the process of conflict excavators and extractives with the aim of providing an explanation of the intrinsic character of interaction among human beings, communities, and states as a process of diffusion of power, conflict reversals, and peace interlocutors.” Simply put: What is the likelihood of conflict, when people, states, or societies are close to each other or far apart?

He held a Graduate Research Assistant position at IDS, and thereafter his MA degree taught courses in Geography, both at the University of Nairobi. Prior to joining Riara University, Onditi spent some years working with United Nations agencies and International Peace Support Training Centre (IPSTC). In both institutions, he served in different capacities, including, Ag. Head of Research Department, Directing Staff (DS), Analyst and advisor on women, peace, and security (WPS). Onditi is a recipient of a number of awards including, the best MA grands by IFRA/C.R.E.AT.I.N.G /EU, and the AAU post-graduate scholarship. His 700-page Doctoral Research Dissertation was recognized as a pioneer piece in enriching peace and conflict studies with PSO concepts. A Pan-African scholar and conflict researcher, Prof. Onditi received his Bachelors and MA degrees from the University of Nairobi, under the scholarship scheme, and Ph.D. at MMUST. He is also trained in Strategic Management, Innovation, and Leadership at MCTC-MASHAV, Haifa, Israel.

Prof. Francis Onditi Publications