Dr. Shem Arungu Olende has a background in electrical engineering. From 1968 to 1991, at the University of Nairobi, he conducted research on (electrical) power systems, their (mathematical) analysis, planning, design and operation. During the years 1969 and 1970 he was also engaged in power systems research at MIT and the LTV Aerospace Corporation. From 1971 to 2000 he provided expert assistance to a variety of programs of UNDP, including those on solar energy an on small-scale hydro-electricity. He was active as a technical expert for the Economic and Monetary Union of West African States (UEMOA), and gave major organizational and technical input to intergovernmental organizations and the U.N. Currently, he provides professional consultancy services in Engineering, Energy and Sustainable Development, Environment, Economic Development, Science and Technology, and Software Development to the U.N., UNDP, the African Development Bank (NEPAD Initiatives), UNESCO and the World Bank.