As Director for Information and Analysis at Valar, Brendan Gough oversees a vast network of field research and analysis operations across Africa and the Middle East. His work spans key projects in Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Mozambique, Madagascar, Yemen, and Sudan.

Brendan has a strong background in interagency policy coordination, having served as the U.S. National Security Council Director for the Horn of Africa, where he managed U.S. policy and programs for the region.

With extensive experience in U.S. government roles in South Africa, Kenya, and Ethiopia since 2008, Brendan brings critical insights regarding regional security, political dynamics, and development challenges into Valar’s work.