Uwingabire Solange | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Uwingabire Solange | Agricultural and Biological Sciences | Best Researcher Award

Sokoine University of Agriculture |Rwanda

Author Profile

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🎓 Early Academic Pursuits

Dr. Uwingabire Solange embarked on her academic journey with a Bachelor’s in Soil Science and Environment Management in 2012. Her early education laid a strong foundation in environmental studies, particularly focused on soil science. Driven by her passion, she continued to pursue a Master’s degree in Soil Sciences and Land Management in 2016. Her dedication culminated in a PhD in Forest Sciences in 2024, with her research focused on sustainable bioenergy and soil fertility within Rwanda's agroecological zones.

💼 Professional Endeavors

Dr. Uwingabire’s career began as a young professional in Rwanda’s MINAGRI-KWAMP watershed initiative in 2014, then expanded to include roles such as a GIS trainer at the Rwanda Institute of Management and a senior technical advisor for B&S Europe. Between 2017 and 2020, she served as a research assistant in a laboratory specializing in soil and plant sciences, further honing her expertise in agroforestry. Her current work as a PhD researcher investigates agroforestry solutions to improve soil fertility and bioenergy sustainability in Rwanda, directly impacting local agricultural practices.

📚 Contributions and Research Focus

Dr. Uwingabire’s research has produced numerous publications focused on soil health, biochar applications, and agroforestry. Her recent work explores how biochar and biochar-blended manure influence French bean yields and soil nutrients, highlighting the positive impacts on soil and agricultural productivity. Additionally, her studies on smallholder biochar use for cooking and bioenergy systems reflect her commitment to integrating sustainable practices within sub-Saharan agricultural systems, helping secure food and energy resources in rural communities.

🏆 Accolades and Recognition

Throughout her career, Dr. Uwingabire has gained acknowledgment from international academic and scientific organizations. She has presented her research at prominent conferences, including the DevRes 2024 in Sweden and the NM-AIST International Scientific Conference. Her memberships with esteemed bodies such as the International Biochar Initiative and the African Forest Forum further recognize her leadership and dedication to advancing forestry and soil sciences in Rwanda and beyond.

🌍 Impact and Influence

Dr. Uwingabire’s work has made a significant impact on soil science and agroforestry practices in Rwanda, particularly through her studies on biochar and sustainable land management. Her expertise has shaped important projects, including environmental assessments and soil management consultations for tea production. As a member of the Rwanda Women in Science Forum and the International Society of Tropical Foresters, she inspires fellow scientists, especially women, and promotes sustainable practices within the scientific community.

🌱 Legacy and Future Contributions

With her continued dedication to research and sustainable land management, Dr. Uwingabire is set to further influence agroforestry, bioenergy, and environmental management. Her ongoing contributions to soil health and sustainable farming practices will likely leave a lasting legacy, strengthening food security and environmental resilience in Rwanda and similar regions in Africa. Dr. Uwingabire remains a beacon of scientific innovation, committed to advancing sustainable solutions for the challenges facing rural communities in sub-Saharan Africa.

 

Publications


📄 French Bean Production as Influenced by Biochar and Biochar Blended Manure Application in Two Agro-Ecological Zones of Rwanda

  • Authors: Uwingabire, S.; Chamshama, S.A.O.; Nduwamungu, J.; Nyberg, G.
  • Journal: Agronomy
  • Year: 2024

📄 Gasifier Use for Cooking and Biochar Production by Smallholder Farmers in Rwanda

  • Authors: Uwingabire, S.; Chamshama, S. A. O.; Nyberg, G.; Nduwamungu, J.
  • Journal: Biofuels
  • Year: 2024

 

 

Atikilt Abera | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Atikilt Abera | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award 

Amhara Regional Agricultural Research Institute | Ethiopia

Author Profile

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Early Academic Pursuits 🎓

Mr. Atikilt Abera embarked on his academic journey with a Bachelor’s degree in Natural Resources Management from Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia. His passion for soil and water conservation led him to pursue a Master’s degree in Soil and Water Conservation Engineering at Hawassa University, where he gained a solid foundation in conservation practices and engineering principles.

Professional Endeavors 🌍

Mr. Abera has dedicated his professional career to soil and water conservation research. He is currently a researcher at the Amhara Agricultural Research Institute (ARARI) in Gondar, Ethiopia. His role involves identifying environmental problems, planning and implementing projects, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. His expertise extends to advanced data analysis and project management, ensuring effective conservation strategies and solutions.

Contributions and Research Focus 🔬

Mr. Abera’s research is centered on soil and water conservation engineering. His work includes analyzing the effects of various tillage practices, sediment yield estimation, and the impact of conservation measures on soil properties and crop yield. He has published extensively on these topics, contributing to the understanding and development of effective conservation techniques in Ethiopia.

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

Mr. Abera has earned recognition for his contributions to soil and water conservation. His published works in reputable journals highlight his expertise and the impact of his research on the field. His involvement in significant projects such as Climate Action through Landscape Management (CALM) and International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) further demonstrates his commitment to advancing environmental conservation.

Impact and Influence 🌱

Mr. Abera’s research has had a profound impact on soil and water conservation practices in Ethiopia. His work has influenced local and regional institutions, guiding community-based watershed development and providing valuable insights into effective conservation measures. His ability to analyze complex data and develop practical solutions has made him a key figure in the field.

Legacy and Future Contributions 🚀

As a leading researcher in soil and water conservation, Mr. Abera’s legacy includes a wealth of knowledge and practical solutions that continue to benefit communities and ecosystems. His ongoing research and commitment to education and collaboration ensure that his contributions will have a lasting impact on the field. Looking ahead, Mr. Abera is poised to continue advancing conservation practices and addressing environmental challenges through innovative research and collaborative efforts.

 

Publications 📰


  • Effects of tillage practices and planting techniques on crop yield and soil properties in northwestern lowlands of Ethiopia
    Author: Atikilt Abera Alemayehu, Legese Abebaw Getu, Tewodros Samual, Baye Ayalew, Hailu Kendie Addis, Tesfaye Feyisa, Tamirat Worku, Meka Tahir, Edimealem Getu
    Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research
    Year: 2023

  • Cross-Correlation of Soil Moisture and Stone Content and Their Spatial Pattern Across the Different Slope Aspects and Soil Depth
    Author: Hailu Kendie Addis, Baye Ayalew, Muuz Gebretsadik, Atikilt Abera, Legese Abebaw Getu, Amsalu K. Addis
    Journal: Turkish Journal of Agriculture - Food Science and Technology
    Year: 2023

  • Estimation of sediment yield and effectiveness of level stone bunds to reduce sediment loss in the Gumara-Maksegnit watershed, Nile Basin, Ethiopia
    Author: Atikilt Abera Alemayehu, Alemayehu Muluneh, Awdenegest Moges, Hailu Kendie
    Journal: Journal of Soils and Sediments
    Year: 2020

  • Economic benefits of soil and water conservation measures at the sub-catchment scale in the northern Highlands of Ethiopia
    Author: Hailu Kendie Addis, Atikilt Abera, Legese Abebaw
    Journal: Progress in Physical Geography: Earth and Environment
    Year: 2020

  • Impacts of stone bunds on selected soil properties and crop yield in Gumara-Maksegnit watershed Northern Ethiopia
    Author: Atikilt Abera Alemayehu, Legese Abebaw Getu, Hailu Kendie Addis, Manuel Tejada Moral
    Journal: Cogent Food & Agriculture
    Year: 2020