Prof. Lindiwe Majele Sibanda is a globally recognized agricultural scientist, food systems leader, academic, and science-policy advocate whose career has been dedicated to bridging farmers, academia, research, business, and policy to advance sustainable and resilient food systems.

She serves on the board of Nestlé⁠, serving on its Sustainability Committee and Creating Shared Value Council.

Professor Sibanda is Chair of Council at the National University of Science and Technology, Extraordinary Professor at the University of Pretoria, and Co-Chair of the Curt Bergfors Food Planet Prize, the world’s largest food and environmental award. She previously chaired the governing board of CGIAR, the world’s largest publicly funded agricultural research partnership, and has held leadership roles across numerous international scientific, development, and policy institutions.

She holds a PhD in Agriculture (Animal Physiology) and an MSc in Agriculture (Grassland Science) from the University of Reading, and a BSc in Agriculture (First Class Honours, Animal Production) from the Alexandria University. Her contributions have earned international recognition, including an Honorary Doctor of Science (DSc honoris causa) from the University of Melbourne, the MS Swaminathan Global Leadership Award, the Science Diplomacy Award of the Government of South Africa, and recognition among the world’s leading women in climate action. Through her work, she continues to champion science-driven solutions that strengthen food security, climate resilience, and sustainable development worldwide.