I am Manayubahwe Kazana Leonidas,

I am an economist by education and career with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural economics and a master’s degree in economics. I am pursuing a PhD in environment and resource management at the Australian National University (ANU), the Fenner School of Environment and Society. I am focusing on the economics of groundwater resources management, particularly managed aquifer recharge (MAR). Prior to starting my PhD, I occupied different positions in both consulting and public service, from a senior analyst to a macroeconomic policy analyst at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning of Rwanda (MINECOFIN). During this time, I worked on a range of projects, from analyses of the COVID-19 pandemic effects to economic analyses on water pricing, Volcano National Park expansion, and investment in FFV (fresh fruits and vegetables) cold storage.

I am also interested in understanding how academic research is a tool for policy- or decision-making. I have always aspired to become an economist. Economics has always been a target for me and makes up most of my everyday thinking and discussion, especially as I am striving to enter into research and learn by sharing knowledge and getting feedback.

Do not hesitate to check out my blog. I’ve got some ideas!