Nutrition monitoring

I began my professional journey in Sri Lanka’s flourishing floriculture industry, focusing on European and Far Eastern markets. Over five years, I led research and development initiatives, pioneering non-conventional breeding methods that significantly advanced the sector. This foundation facilitated my transition into project and program management, where I have had the privilege of collaborating with governmental bodies and international funding organizations.

A highlight of my career was playing a key role in the success of the National Agriculture Development Program (2003-2014), contributing to strategic planning, coordination, and execution, while bringing over two decades of diverse experience within Sri Lanka’s agricultural development sector.

My professional journey has been shaped by multidisciplinary training, equipping me with expertise in project and program management, monitoring and evaluation, strategic planning in MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), sustainable rural development, climate-smart agriculture, food and nutrition security, Agric value chain & SME developments,Results-Based Management (RBM), gender mainstreaming, and knowledge management, among other areas of competence.

Since October 2015, I have had the privilege of coordinating multifaceted projects and programs for the EU Delegation in Sri Lanka and the Maldives, with a focus on integrated rural development. These initiatives span critical sectors such as agriculture ( agri- green), food and nutrition, local governance, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), SCP (Sustainable Consumption and Production), and Nature based tourism, all aimed at fostering positive, sustainable development.

As I continue my professional path, I remain committed to leveraging my diverse expertise to drive impactful transformations across Sri Lanka’s evolving sectors, contributing meaningfully to sustainable development goals.

Alexandre Castellano.

Born in France on 16 May 1975.

Nationality: French and Italian

Education: MSc in Biology in Italy and MSc in Public Health Nutrition at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Position: from 2020 to date - DG ECHO Head of Office - Pretoria - South Africa - for the Southern Africa and Indian Ocean Region.

Previous positions: from 2000 to 2012 working with various NGOs dealing with emergencies and innovation technologies in seven African countries – from 2013 to 2016 policy officer with ECHO in the head quarter dealing with Food Assistance, Nutrition, Cash-Based Transfers and Innovations. From 2016 to 2020, ECHO Technical Assistant for the Southern Africa and Indian Ocean Region.

Key interest: Innovative Technologies applied to humanitarian response.

Asif Ali Shah is a seasoned Pakistani diplomat having over 21 years of experience in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL). His dynamic career has taken him across Georgia, Myanmar, Cambodia, Bangkok and Pakistan, where he has established/led resilient, emergency, and development programming over a portfolio of 170 USD, across United Nations agencies and international organizations focusing on strategic efforts in development programming in MEAL, institutional reform, and results-based evaluation. He has successfully collaborated with a wide array of donors, including EU, USAID, GEF, GCF, FCDO, JICA and Italy, ensuring rigorous standards and cross-sectoral impact.
Currently based in Georgia, Asif contributes to international development platforms with deep expertise in rolling-out MEAL, data systems, accountability frameworks, and stakeholder coordination. Known for his precision, independence, and cross-sectoral leadership, he blends global experience with local insight to advance transparent, impactful solutions. This multidimensional background enables him to adapt swiftly, communicate effectively, and drive strategic innovation in complex development environments.
Beyond his professional work, Asif is a passionate horseman and accomplished polo player. He proudly participated in the legendary Shandur Polo Festival, held at the highest polo ground in the world—often referred to as the “Roof of the World.” His love for the sport reflects a commitment to discipline, heritage, and resilience.