It is with deepest sadness and regret that the Sasakawa Africa Association (SAA) announces the untimely death of Christopher R. Dowswell, Executive Director - Programs. Chris passed away at his home in Mexico last Saturday, 19 November 2011, at the age of 64.

Chris was aid de camp to Nobel Laureate Dr Norman E. Borlaug, former President of SAA, for 31 years. He joined SAA in 1991; formerly SAA’s Director of Communications, he was appointed joint Executive Director in 2009. Following Dr. Borlaug’s death in September 2009, Chris worked tirelessly to re-energise and transform the organisation in its objective of supporting smallholder farmers in its focus countries of Ethiopia, Mali, Nigeria and Uganda. Earlier this month, he addressed SAA’s 25th anniversary symposium in Bamako, Mali.

“Chris has made an immeasurable contribution to SAA over many years”, said SAA Chairperson, Hon Professor Ruth Oniang’o. “He will be dreadfully missed – but his vision for the future will remain and his work will go on.”

“The thoughts and prayers of the SAA Board, staff and colleagues go out to Chris’ family.”

ENDS