Hardwork and determination is often the catch word for those who have made it in life despite a number of odds.
But for Dr. Evance Ochieng Ongati, it is true that resilience and determination can yield fruits despite the surrounding environment.
Dr. Ongati, 39, has graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Procurement and Supply Chain Management from Maseno University, becoming one of the youngest scholars in Kenya to attain the qualification in the specialized field.
His doctoral research examined the moderating effect of electronic data interchange on the relationship between integrated transportation and supply chain performance among large-scale manufacturing firms in Kenya.
Dr. Ongati previously earned a Master of Science in Supply Chain Management from Maseno University and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Supply Chain Management from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology.
He was among a small group of scholars in Kenya to graduate with a PhD in the field, reflecting the growing demand for expertise in procurement and supply chain management.
Born and raised in Karachuonyo, Dr. Ongati attended Gendia High School before completing his secondary education at Maliera Secondary School in Siaya County.
After finishing school, financial challenges prevented him from immediately pursuing higher education.
Determined to continue his studies, he ventured into a stationery supply business in Kisumu, using part of his earnings to enroll in procurement and supply chain management courses at the Kenya Institute of Management.
He later joined JOOUST for his undergraduate studies before progressing to postgraduate and doctoral studies at Maseno University.
Dr. Ongati credits his success to perseverance, family support and mentorship, particularly from his uncle, Professor Omollo Ongati. He dedicated his PhD achievement to his late father, Ongati, and his wife, Angela.
Professionally, Dr. Ongati has served in the County Government of Homa Bay, where he participated in procurement policy formulation, strategy development and regulatory reviews.
He has also contributed to resource mobilization initiatives, partnership development and public participation programs aimed at supporting county development.
Throughout his career, he has undertaken several professional training programmes, including corporate governance, public service management, project monitoring and evaluation, performance appraisal systems and procurement management.
In addition to his public service work, Dr. Ongati has published research and academic articles on supply chain management and procurement practices.
His research interests include integrated transportation systems and the use of electronic data interchange to improve supply chain performance.
Looking ahead, Dr. Ongati said his goal is to become a professor and contribute to policy development, research and academic advancement in supply chain management.
He also expressed interest in public leadership, saying he hopes to help improve education standards in Kisumu East Constituency, where he believes more investment in educational infrastructure is needed.
Currently a lecturer at Kibabii University, Dr. Ongati spends his free time with family, enjoys gospel music and reading, and counts fish and ugali among his favourite meals.
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