Joined the Institute in 1988 in training position after completion of a BSc degree in Mathematics and Statitics from the University of Nairobi.  Proceeded in 1990 to a Master’s degree program in Marine Ecology at the Free University of Brussels in Belgium.  Professional contributions have been many and varied.  Implemented the first GIS based Kenya coastal resource database and atlas.  Involved in ocean data management through the IOC-UNESCO beginning in 1997 to date.  Is presently coordinating the Kenya National Oceanographic Data Center (KeNODC).  Has been involved in data management components for major projects in the WIO region including the SWIOFP and ASCLME projects.  Presently chairing the WIO task group on Marine Spatial Planning and also leading the data process for the cumulative impacts assessment under the WIOSym Norway initiative.  Lastly been conducting and coordinating short trainings for scientists being implemented at the OTGA Regional Training Center (RTC) in KMFRI Mombasa, targeting mainly the English speaking countries in Africa.

• Research Networks : Research Gate
• OceanExpert

• Amon Kimeli, Pascal Thoya, Noah Ngisiang’e, Harrison Ong’anda, Charles Magori, 2018.  Satellite-derived bathymetry: A case study of Mombasa Port Channel and its approaches, Kenya.  WIO Journal of Marine Science 17 (2 ) 2018 93-102
• Carolien Knockaert, Lennert Tyberghein, Annelies Goffin, Delphine Vanhaecke, Harrison Ong’anda, Enock O. Wakwabi & Jan Mees.  2019. Biodiversity data rescue in the framework of a long-term Kenya-Belgium cooperation in marine sciences. Springer Nature (2019) 6:85
• C Kosore, L Ojwang, J Maghanga, J Kamau, A Kimeli, J Omukoto, N Ngisiag’e, J Mwaluma, H Ong’anda, C Magori & E Ndirui (2018) Occurrence and ingestion of microplastics by zooplankton in Kenya's marine environment: first documented evidence, African Journal of Marine Science, 40:3, 225-234 
• Mike I. Olendo , Gladys M. Okemwa , Cosmas N. Munga , Lilian K. Mulupi Lily D. Mwasi , Hassan B. Mohamed Mxolisi S Ibanda And Harrison O. Ong’anda. 2017. The value of long-term, community-based monitoring of marine turtle nesting: a study in the Lamu archipelago, Kenya. 2017.  Oryx, Page 3 of 10 © 2017 Fauna & Flora International doi:10.1017/S0030605317000771 
• Olendo M., CN Munga, GM Okemwa, H. Ong’anda, L. Mulupi, L. Mwasi, H. Mohamed. 2016.  Current status of sea turtle protection in Lamu Seascape, Kenya: Trends in nesting, nest predation and stranding levels. WIO Journal of Marine Science. Vol 15(1) 2016 1-13
• Ong’anda H. O. The dynamics of carbon and nitrogen in the mangrove forest of Gazi, Kenya.  A numerical modelling approach.  MSc Thesis, Free University of Brussels, Belgium. 1992
• Mwaguni S., B.A.J. Mwandotto & H. Ong’anda.  2001.  Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Kenya. In, The Voyage from Seychelles to Maputo: Successes and failures of Integrated Coastal Zone Management in Eastern Africa and the island states. Eds. Voabil C. & S. Engdahl. SEACAM 2001. pp. 17-43.
• Muhando C.A., H. Ong’anda & L. Bydekerke. 2004. Overview of the Physical Alteration and Destruction of Habitats in the Eastern African Region using Geographical Information Systems (GIS). UNEP/GPA/WIOMSA. 70pp.
• Munga D., S. Mwangi, H. Ong’anda, J.U. Kitheka, S.M. Mwaguni, F. Mdoe, J. Barongo, H.S. Massa, & G. Opello.  2006. Vulnerability and pollution of groundwater in Kisauni, Mombasa, Kenya.  In, Groundwater Pollution in Africa. UNEP.  Eds. Xu Y. & B. Usher. Taylor & Francis/Balkema.  pp. 213-229
• Maleret-King D., A. King, S. Mangubhai, J. Tunje, J. Muturi, E. Mueni, H. Ong’anda.  2002. Review of marine fisheries in Kenya.  FMSP Project R8196-Understanding fisheries associated livelihoods and the constraints to their development in Kenya and Tanzania
• Shaghude Y.W.,  J.W. Mburu, J. Uku, , J. Ochiewo, N. Nyandwi, H. Onganda, C. Magori, , I. Sanga & R.S. Arthurton.2012.  Beach Sand Supply and Transport at Kunduchi in Tanzania and Bamburi in Kenya.  Western Indian Ocean J. Mar. Sci. Vol. 11. No. 2, pp. 135-154, 2012 © 2013 WIOMSA
• Cosmas N. Munga,  Stephen Mwangi, Harrison Ong’anda,  Renison Ruwa, Julius Manyala,  Johan C. Groeneveld , Edward Kimani,  Ann Vanreusel. 2013.  Species composition, distribution patterns and population structure of penaeid  shrimps in Malindi-Ungwana Bay, Kenya, based  on experimental bottom trawl surveys.  Fisheries Research 147 (2013) 93– 102
• Cosmas N. Munga,  Stephen Mwangi, Harrison Ong’anda,  Renison Ruwa, Julius Manyala,  Johan C. Groeneveld , Edward Kimani,  Ann Vanreusel. 2014. Fish catch composition of artisanal and bottom trawl fisheries in Malindi-Ungwana Bay, Kenya: A cause for conflict? Wsetern Indian Ocean J. Mar. Sci. Vol 13 No. 2 pp 177-188
• Mwaluma J., N. Ngisiang’e, M. Osore, J. Kamau, H. Ong’anda, J. Kilonzi, M. Roberts, E. Popova & S.C. Painter.  2021.  Assemblage structure and distribution of fish larvae on the North Kenya Banks during the South East Monsoon season.  Oceans and Coastal Management Vol 212, 15 October 2021