IFS Annual Report 2022

IFS ANNUAL REPORT 2022

IFS – DEVELOPING SCIENCE, SCIENCE FOR DEVELOPMENT

The IFS Annual Report is structured to align with our Strategy 2021–2030. It also reflects emerging thinking from the debates on the organisation’s future held during IFS’s 50th Anniversary Celebratory Forum in November 2022. An account of the celebrations precedes the three main report sections on Impact – how IFS grantees’ research is being put into use; the awarding of Basic and Advanced Grants; and Capacity-enhancing Support – or IFS’s value as a scientific partner. We hope you enjoy the report!

IFS Annual Report 2022

Produced by IFS, 2023

Production and Graphic Design by Global Reporting Sweden

Cover photo: Vegetable harvest day in Vietnam (from left: Mr Toan, Ms Van Anh, Dr Nguyen Thanh Bình, Mr Thien and Mr Thanh).

Foreword

Wow! What a year this has been! After surviving and structurally addressing COVID-19, the world was faced with Putin’s war and the crises that it has caused. Here in Sweden, foreign policy evolved in the direction of the country’s integration into NATO, but a change in government also put international development cooperation further under pressure. In the midst of this turmoil, IFS continued to operate to the best of its capacities thanks to its committed staff – you will see from the report the numbers, figures, analyses and stories that testify to this.

In 2022, we also celebrated IFS’s 50th anniversary with representatives of our global constituencies. Our Celebratory Forum in November 2022 inspired us in our way forward, including seeking new funding partners and alternative sources of financing to support our activities. All of these ideas will soon materialise in what we have called the new “IFS 2.0”. During the November Forum, we featured our grantees’ monumental efforts that are living proof of IFS’s unique mandate and position in supporting early-career scientists from the Global South. Be assured that we, at the Secretariat and Board, will continue to further IFS’s mandate in the coming years of transition.

However, at the end of 2022 we also had to say good-bye to our long-serving Director, Dr Nighisty Ghezae, who had decided to retire. For more than 15 years, she contributed much to IFS and the fulfilment of its vision and mission, first for eight years as Head of Programme and then for seven years as Director. I think you have known Nighisty for her unwavering enthusiasm, collaboration with the Board, staff, SAC members, partners,

donors and supporters, and for supporting our many grantees around the globe. Let me express our gratitude to Nighisty for her long-lasting commitment, and hereby also wish her all the best for her post-IFS life: vive valeque!

Nighisty’s departure did not come as a complete surprise, so we had ample time to develop a “coping strategy” and plan for the coming years. I am confident that at the IFS Secretariat we remain focused and committed to helping further the career of early-career researchers in the Global South. I am sure that we will succeed with your help and support!

Dr Nighisty Ghezae IFS Director 2015–2022

Dr Patrick Van Damme Chair of the IFS Board of Trustees

PHOTO: PRIVATE

PHOTO: PETR ZMEK, CZU

Dr Patrick Van Damme Chair

Summary

A New Strategy and Looking Ahead

Under the theme of Investing in Future Scientists, 2022 was the next step in our Strategy for 2021–2030, which:

> Represents an evolution in our approach to enhancing research capacity

> Reflects changes in the contemporary context

> Focuses resources on supporting promising early-career scientists, and

> Provides a foundation for IFS to move onto its next chapter.

In November 2021, IFS commissioned Nairobi-based ECIAfrica to conduct an Assessment on IFS’s Next Chapter. The Assessment made specific recommendations on developing a programme that better supports early-career scientists in the Global South in line with specific requirements and expectations of partner institutions and scientists, and with evolving donor thinking. Overall recommendations included:

a) Clarifying IFS programme content and boundaries in terms of focal thematic areas

b)Anchoring mentorship as part of IFS’s delivery approach

c) Enhancing attention to climate change

d)Reengineering the IFS learning processes to reflect the realities of today

e) Establishing a robust monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning framework, and

f) Redefining IFS from just grantmaking to a change-making organization.

In November 2022, IFS held its 50th Anniversary Forum on Science for Peace, Prosperity and Justice. Among the day’s discussions, the wide-ranging representation of IFS constituencies highlighted:

> The unique culture and remit of IFS and its reputation in countries of the Global South

> Concerns about changing the nature and operations of IFS, and not losing its soul

> The hope that IFS continues to be inclusive, with its support to women in science, and now with the possibilities of working with indigenous peoples and local community organisations, and

> How IFS will still be helping to create the best science possible by embracing working with indigenous peoples and knowledge and with local communities.

In this year’s Annual Report, we present our work in 2022 so that the impact of how grantees’ research is put into use is at the forefront, followed by our grants provision and capacityenhancing support activities, as follows.

Impact

We supported and followed up with 196 grantees of 2018 who were finishing their research. Through a representative selection of research results and achievements of grantees, IFS has documented evidence of numerous impacts from its support for the research of early-career scientists. So far, these scientists have published 180 articles in peer-reviewed scientific journals and established numerous national and international scientific contacts. Of the 117 grantees who submitted their Project Completion Forms, all but two were still active in research and 109 were still working in their own countries. IFS grantees are using their research in immediate, near-term and long-lasting ways, in communities, villages, forests, fields, policy discussions, government practices and the global scientific community. For example, impact has been demonstrated through:

> Careers being launched

> Useful research coming from relatively small grants

> Peer-reviewed scientific publications and other media products resulting from research

> Women scientists succeeding at high rates

> Graduates and postgraduates returning to a science community in their home countries

> Successful alumni associating in support of each other and younger colleagues

> Like-minded scientists participating in disciplinary and interdisciplinary networks

> Scientists in less-resourced countries having access to a source of funding

> Influential individuals who acknowledge the support of IFS in developing their careers

> Scientists working and researching together across continents and building strong, lasting scientific relationships, and

> Building institutional capacity.

Grants

In 2022 we attracted 473 completed applications for Basic Grants. Out of the total proposed projects, 137 grants were approved for funding, with women scientists accounting for 27% of the individual research grant awardees. In addition to the early-career scientists receiving research grants, the other 335 applicants were also given feedback by well-qualified

IFS reviewers and advisors as part of our capacity-enhancing activities. The IFS Secretariat also processed 55 purchase orders for laboratory equipment and materials.

The implementation of the new Advanced Grant scheme continued in 2022, through a collaboration with Philippinesbased SEARCA1 on a response to the COVID pandemic with a Call for Research on Accelerating Transformation through Agricultural Innovation in Southeast Asia. Ten successful applicants received an IFS-SEARCA Advanced Grant to conduct their research within one to three years.

Capacity-enhancing Support

In 2022, IFS jointly engaged with various strategic partners on a spectrum of topics, including pitching proposals, research writing in the sciences, statistical computing, women in STEM,

crop protection, and gender equality in research. The eleven activities took place virtually, in person and in hybrid formats. In addition to mentoring and coaching the grantees from 2018, 468 grantees from other sessions with ongoing research projects received support whenever needed. We also supported our alumni to associate with and support other potential grantees through training and coaching.

Responding to COVID-affected Grantees

In 2022, the COVID pandemic continued to affect current IFS grantees and their ability to run their IFS grant projects according to plan. The main reported constraints related to delays due to local or national regulations limiting travel to the field or access to the laboratory, and increased costs, making it difficult to stay within the grant budget approved for the project.

1. Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture.

Mrs Thi Mai Nguyen. Preparation of experimental diet by student Thi Hai Pham. Dr Ayodele Soge performing electrical resistance tomography test to detect defects in a standing tree.

IFS Strategy

The IFS Strategy 2021–2030 – Investing in Future Scientists – represents an evolution in IFS’s approach to enhancing research capacity, driven by changes in the contemporary context. While IFS continues to emphasise the quality and development relevance of the research it supports, the 2021–2030 Strategy sets out the case for increased resources for supporting promising early-career scientists as essential to addressing national and global challenges.

Vision

Building on five decades of experience, the Strategy reaffirms the organisation’s Vision of scientists in the Global South assuming ownership and development of local and regional research agendas and contributing to a global research community committed to supporting sustainable development and building science literacy.

Theory of Change

IFS’s Theory of Change is that investing in research and complementary skills of promising early-career scientists from the Global South enhances research capacity, thereby helping secure the cadre of Global South scientists needed to participate in the generation of the science, technology and innovation, and supporting policies, essential to eliminating poverty and hunger.

Mission

To realize its Vision, IFS’s Mission is to enhance the capacity of promising early-career women and men scientists in the Global South to acquire the skills needed to conduct research and communicate their results, contribute to science literacy, influence science priority setting, and network and collaborate with the global research community to shape research agendas.

Objectives

The overall Objective is to enhance the capacity of promising early-career scientists in the Global South to conduct relevant research, increase science literacy, and influence local, regional and global research agendas.

Specific Objectives are:

1. Generation and dissemination of scientific knowledge by early-career scientists in the Global South, and

2. Enhanced capacity of early-career scientists from the Global South to influence, lead, network, fundraise and put research into use.

Capacity-enhancing Support

IFS provides tailored research capacity-enhancing support to promising early-career scientists centred around individual Basic Grants and Advanced Grants. Capacity-enhancing support includes training workshops, usually with partners, in science writing, using social media, using research, data protection, and ethics in research. Support may also be provided to help grantees purchase equipment, visit laboratories, attend conferences and present research results.

Following a review of the future of IFS in 2022 and the debates held at the organisation’s 50th Anniversary Celebratory Forum in November (see next page), IFS’s strategy is evolving to seek new partners and ways of working. IFS will, for example, reach out to researchers working with those most vulnerable to climate change and biodiversity loss, including local communities and indigenous people, to co-develop solutions that improve livelihoods and resilience to existential shocks.

The 50th Anniversary Forum on Science for Peace, Prosperity, and Justice – IFS Celebrates and Looks Ahead

On 10 November 2022, 46 colleagues and friends gathered to celebrate IFS’s half-century of awarding more than 8,800 grants to earlycareer researchers in more than 100 countries. Held on the premises of the Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences (IVA) in Stockholm –one of IFS’s founding member organisations – the Forum’s participants represented current, former and prospective members of the IFS community, including alumni, Scientific Advisory Committee members, partners, donors, Board of Trustees and Secretariat staff. Several other colleagues were invited to participate in the Forum as keynote and panel speakers on issues related to the decolonization of science, the strengthening of science and its impact on indigenous peoples and local community organisations.

In addition to the release of the IFS 50th Anniversary booklet, throughout the day of the Forum participants also enjoyed video screenings of testimonials and salutations from IFS grantees and alumni from around the world, as well as from partner organisations such as Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD), the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), and the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture (SEARCA). Forum participants were also connected in almost-real-time to the COP27 Climate Change Conference in Egypt, through the screening of a professionally produced video narrated by IFS alumni Dr David Chiawo, on his participation in a meeting organized by the African Association of Business Schools, and IFS’s involvement in developing plans to source global funds for climate research (see https://youtu.be/P49YQ1XFawc).

The Forum opened with remarks by Dr Tuula Teeri, President, IVA; Prof Patrick Van Damme, IFS Board Chair; and Mr Alan AtKisson, Assistant Director-General, Sida; followed by a presentation of IFS’s 50 years of achievements by Dr Nighisty Ghezae, IFS Director. The two keynote presentations on the theme of “science for peace, prosperity and justice” were given by Prof Arun Agrawal, University of Michigan, and Dr Margaret Rugadya, The Tenure Facility. Prof Agrawal spoke of how research on “the commons” has been dominated by a

focus on the role of the state and markets, and the conditions necessary for them to work, to the exclusion of communitylevel challenge-focused “emergent” research on what works.

Dr Rugadya took the gathering along on her journey from community activist to grant manager via an intermediary role among research, policy and practice, bringing together researchers, communities and policymakers to co-create solutions. However, Arun and Margaret arrived at the same place – that we need more trans-disciplinary research in which researchers, communities, policymakers and practitioners work together to identify problems, collaborate on interdisciplinary research, co-analyse results, and co-produce solutions.

The first of the Forum’s two panels was inspired by the efforts of IFS alumni in Africa and Asia to draw attention to the decolonization of science. It was chaired by Prof Suneetha Kadiyala, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, with panellists Dr Adedotun Afolayan (Nigeria), Dr María Eugenia Flores-Giubi (Paraguay), Dr Kathelyn Paredes Villanueva (Bolivia) and Dr Babita Paudel (Nepal). Drawing on their practical experiences as IFS grantees in their own countries, the panellists spoke about facing real problems of lack of resources, institutional and systemic inequalities within and between southern research institutions, even bigger ones between them and northern institutions, and how we are all at the mercy of our respective wider socio-economic, cultural and political contexts. The panel emphasised manageable solutions such as relatively small changes in research funding mechanisms and budgets, an emphasis on more equitable partnerships, and strengthening local, national, regional and global research networks.

Chaired by Dr Sajitha Bashir, formerly of the World Bank, the second panel on strengthening science and impact with indigenous peoples and local community organisations, had as panellists Mr Stephen Moiko (Kenya), Mr Samuel Nguiffo (Cameroon) and Dr Kathelyn Paredes Villanueva (Bolivia). Although the panel provided examples of the involvement of local people and indigenous knowledge in action-research projects, it was also noted that there has generally been little progress over the past four decades in terms of valuing local communities’ contributions in scientific endeavours and

progress and the question remains about how global scientific networks and institutions can best support indigenous people.

Prof Malcolm Beveridge, IFS Board member, and Dr Nighisty Ghezae, IFS Director, then presented “IFS 2.0 –Towards a New Strategic Direction”. They suggested that IFS’s next chapter be grounded in its history, vision and mission, that it continues with its proven model of supporting the research of early-career scientists in the Global South with grants and capacity-enhancing support, and that it broaden its scope of engagement to include partnerships with indigenous peoples and local community organisations (and their young scholars), new modalities of working with other science capacity-building organisations, and new kinds of collaborations with industrial partners and scientists in the Global South.

In the Forum’s final session, several participants reflected on the day’s discussions, findings, and the way forward for IFS. They mentioned:

> The unique culture and remit of IFS and its reputation in countries of the Global South

> Concerns about changing the nature and operations of IFS, and not losing its soul

> The hope that IFS continues to be inclusive, with its support to women in science, and also now with the possibilities of working with indigenous peoples and local community organisations, and

> How IFS will still be helping to create the best science possible by embracing indigenous peoples, knowledge, and local communities.

IFS is grateful to each participant in the 50th Anniversary Forum, for bringing their passions and ideas, for their unwavering support of IFS, and for making the Forum a success.

The IFS staff choir.

Panel discussion: Decolonizing science – Impacts, implications, and recommendations from IFS alumni.

Keynote speech by Dr Margaret Rugadya.

IMPACT Putting Grantee Research into Use

IFS’s Vision is for scientists in the Global South to contribute fully to a global research community committed to reducing poverty and supporting sustainable development nationally and regionally. It monitors realisation of its Vision through a number of output- and outcome-related metrics, including:

> Increased numbers of early-career Global South women and men scientists supported

> Increased support per scientist, in terms of grant support, mentoring and capacity-enhancing activities

> Increased numbers of publications, including in high-impact journals

> Improved research and research-associated skills, including organisational, communication and interpersonal skills

> Greater translation of research into use, through involvement in evidence-based decision-making and uptake of science, technology and innovation by society

> Improvements in science literacy, via the development of research communities, including Alumni Associations, and

> Improved career pathways.

Grantee performance is monitored through project reports when the grant is finalised. These consist of a scientific report of the grant progress, any scientific publications that are a direct outcome of the IFS grant, and responses to an online questionnaire called a Project Completion Form (PCF). In the PCF, grantees are asked to answer more detailed questions regarding any more “indirect” results of the IFS grant, e.g., the number of colleagues and students that benefitted from the grant, any promotion, scientific networking, or additional funding obtained.

The PCFs capture early-career scientists’ self-assessment of how their skills have developed due to IFS support; the PCFs also facilitate assessment by scientific peers of grantee development as researchers. Data are analysed to identify aspects of research grant support and complementary activities that can be improved to better support research capacity enhancement and validate the assumptions underpinning the approach. In addition, IFS conducts periodic country-wise surveys with grantees to better understand their research and career achievements.

Mr Délagnon Assou: Ichthyological communities in Togo’s coastal lagoon system: Diversity, ecology, and exploitation.

Fisheries are an essential natural resource for the Togo national economy, and a significant income-generating activity for many households living around these resources.

Fishing by local communities in shallow areas after flooding.

A Selection of Research Results and Achievements of IFS Grantees

IFS grantees are contributing significantly to changes around the world, through their commitment to scientific advancements, their enthusiasm to learn and to work with others, and their attainment in getting their research results put into use at local, national and global levels. In 2022, we followed up on the results and achievements of the 196 grantees awarded grants in 2018. (For a detailed list of approved projects, refer to the IFS Annual Report 2018.) As gleaned from grantee responses to the questions on the Project Completion Forms (PCFs), numerous impacts are evident from IFS’s support of early-career scientists, in immediate, near-term and long-lasting ways, in villages, forests, fields, policy discussions, government practices, and the global scientific community.

In terms of how the results of their IFS-funded research have been put into use, 2018 grantees mentioned contact with government officials or local communities who have been informed about the research outcomes, as well as the uptake of practices by people who were involved in the project. Of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals that their research projects were meant to address, the top six were:

SDG 1: No poverty

SDG 2: Zero hunger

SDG 3: Good health and well-being

SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production

SDG 13: Climate action, and

SDG 15: Life on land

Common throughout the responses in these particular PCFs, grantees mentioned reduced interactions with communities and potential end-users due to the Covid pandemic, in addition to reporting delays and practical problems in their project implementation due to pandemic restrictions.

All 117 responding grantees mentioned that other people benefitted from their grant, including 376 scientists, 284 technicians and 693 research students from their own institutions, and 50 research students from other institutions. Fourteen of the grants also brought benefits to over 300 people outside of academia including farmers, fishermen and local authorities such as park rangers. Grantees’ institutions themselves benefitted from the IFS research projects, such as through:

> Improvement of their laboratories through the purchase

of scientific equipment and consumables, and their use by other scientists and students at the institution as well as for teaching and expanding the scientific networks of the institution

> Provision of hands-on practical training and mentoring of students collaborating in the project

> Increased visibility and even ranking of the institution through their publications as well as through publicising of their international grant on institutional and other websites, ultimately in some cases leading to increased opportunities to attract students to the university

> Increased knowledge of all aspects of grant proposal writing and grant management at institutional level

> Encouragement of other staff members to apply for IFS or other international grants

> Improved research capacity and technical skills of institutional staff

> Increased institutional visibility by national science and agricultural authorities and entities

> Recognition that the institution has specific competencies and expertise

> Contribution to accreditation of university programmes

> Strengthening institutional collaboration

> Reaching institutional goals in promoting rural development

> Increased recognition of institutional administrative reliability through successful grant administration, and

> Collaboration and partnerships with international scientists.

Indeed, respondents report that they established contacts with 360 grantees in their own countries, 65 grantees in other countries, and 31 IFS advisors in their own country and 40 in other countries. Additionally, they established contacts with 430 other scientists in their own countries and 266 scientists in other countries. The grantees are active members of 197 learned societies or scientific networks, with 36 of these affiliations directly arising from contacts made through the IFS grant. The IFS funding was also seen as responsible for a number of grantees being promoted to higher academic ranks and in the case of some, enabling 25 to obtain their PhD degree thanks to IFS support.

As a result of the IFS grant, 69 – more than half of respondents – were able to obtain additional funding for more advanced academic training, travel grants, or further research projects. One grantee from Vietnam was twice a team leader on government-funded projects on feed ingredients and nutrient

requirements for broiler chickens in Vietnam. Another was a principal investigator in Bangladesh on four projects on E. coli in chickens and water supply systems, salmonella in cattle, and bacteria in ducks. One grantee was awarded a Future Leaders African Independent Research (FLAIR) Fellowship for 2020–2022. With funding of £288,333, this research aims at improving access to soil information by smallholder farmers for sustainable soil, water and nutrient management, and, consequently, increased crop yields and incomes. Another grantee was awarded the Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD) Early Career Fellowship (2019–2021). With a grant amount of USD 50,000, her study is on promoting underutilized oilseeds to address malnutrition in Africa and is based on preliminary data obtained from her IFS project.

Of 117 grantees, only two people left research, one moving to a commercial company, and one to a consultancy company involved in research. The others report that they are all still active in research. One hundred and nine grantees stayed in their own country or in another eligible country while six reported that at the time of submission of their PCF, they were abroad: two for their PhD studies (Germany and South Africa), two on a post-doc (USA and France), and one with a position at a research institute in the UK. Of the people staying in their country, three worked at a research-oriented national NGO, and 17 were employed at national research institutes, while the remaining were affiliated with a university, either full- or part-time.

The following quotes are representative of what 2018 grantees view as the significance of the IFS support for their careers:

”I was in initial stages of my career when I received IFS support. The grant gave me confidence in myself to work for the scientific community and general society. The IFS grant was just like a seedling for me. I travelled across the country and liaised with various livestock stakeholders to accomplish the IFS project activities. Additionally, I developed linkages with academia and presented IFS work in a national symposium at Agha Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan. In the end, I am thankful to IFS for supporting me at such an early stage of my career.”

”I am on the verge of completing my PhD solely due to IFS support. I have networked, gotten mentorship and collaborated both locally and internationally. I feel more confidence in research proposal and scientific paper writing, and never feel disappointed when facing difficulties. IFS support is visible in my career and I am proud of it.”

”The research I undertook through the grant will result in at least two publications which will contribute to my next promotion from senior lecturer to associate professor. It has enabled me to identify a research team to work with after we spent the past three years on the IFS research journey, and we look forward to publishing and researching together in the near future.”

”I must acknowledge that IFS was my first research grant. Getting the IFS grant gave me confidence and motivation that eventually propelled me to win more grants. The IFS grant introduced me to the field of research as a principal investigator where I had to lead the team. This gave me real hands-on experience in managing grants. IFS has had a significant impact on my research career path and I will remain grateful.”

”A major limitation in conducting extensive research in the chemical sciences in Ghana and other developing countries is the ability to purchase laboratory solvents, standard reagents and other chemical supplies. However, with the IFS grant, I was able to buy all the needed laboratory consumables and other reagents for my research work.”

”This project has provided an opportunity for my research students since one of the objectives of this research activity was to train undergraduate students at the Department of Chemical Engineering and Processing, Nong Lam University [Vietnam]. I have successfully supervised four students. The project also provided me an opportunity to guide and share the knowledge and research skills with my research team including my students and staff. As a result, I have collected the research results for two scientific papers on filtration membrane and on lycopene of watermelon.”

”I have been getting invitations for reviews, workshops, conferences, and lectures as well as for editorial membership of academic journals, all related to the field of drug discovery. Currently, I am an editor with the Scientific Reports (Nature), BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, and EvidenceBased Complementary & Alternative Medicine.”

”The IFS grant has helped me to develop a strong curriculum and encouraged me to design new projects with innovative ideas. It has not only encouraged me but the other females of my institution to seek such opportunities as well. Therefore, IFS proved highly significant for my career. I am obliged to the founders, the financers and the organizing team of IFS for a transparent selection of grantees all over the globe. I highly appreciate the whole team for continuation of this programme for fifty years. I wish other such programmes to be inaugurated especially for women scientists.”

Difficult though it is to choose which of the 2018 projects to highlight, presented here in the next pages are 13 that are representative of topics, countries, regions, women and men. These selections also represent the many early-career scientists who IFS is honoured to include among those who work to support its mission.

DR NGUYEN THANH BINH Nong Lam University, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

A pre-feasibility study on composting of animal waste using the aerated compost system and Its utilization as a soil fertilizer in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

The increasing demand for high-quality compost places urgent demands on improving compost technology and developing appropriate methods for rapidly assessing compost quality. The aerated compost system accelerated the decomposition of organic matter, shortened the composting time, and improved the compost product quality after it was applied to the soil. The results of this project have been put to practical use at both small and medium scales, as well as at a large scale. At small to medium scale, the Micro-bin Composting and Benchmark Composting models served for research, training and recycling of animal waste and crop residue purposes. On a large scale, the basic technical highlights related to raw materials and composting processes have also been shared with the CP Vietnam composting plant, which supplied the animal waste for research purposes. After the project ended, the composting site at the Experimental Farm of the Faculty of Agronomy, Nong Lam University, Ho Chi Minh City, significantly reduced the amount of organic waste sent to landfills, and the hands-on activities engaged students in the action for sustainable waste management. The students in the Compost Team have just won the second prize in the Agricultural Start-up Competition held by our university. I also received the President’s Certificate of Merit in 2019–2020 in connection with my IFSsupported project.

DR MOREBLESSING CHIMWETA Bindura University of Science Education, Zimbabwe

Optimising maize yield under flood-recession cropping in the Zambezi Valley in northern Zimbabwe

The research yielded results that eased the adoption of concepts to select appropriate maize cultivars, and the best fertility amendment regimes, and clarified for farmers that edaphic conditions for best production are not necessarily closer to river channels, since the study was conducted through participatory action research. The farmers who

witnessed the practical aspects of the field research are adopting micro-dosing and careful selection of crops to curb or cope with salinity-related stress. In personal terms, the thorough selection and feedback process for an IFS grant gave me confidence and helped me develop meaningful research. IFS support also helped me connect with farming and scientist communities within and beyond my country.

MR GUIZADA DURAN

Universidad Mayor de San Andres, Bolivia

Distribution and habitat suitability modelling for the river dolphin (Inia boliviensis) in the Bolivian Amazon

The results obtained on the population size of the river dolphin found within the Ibare-Mamoré Municipal Protected Area were shared with the Municipal Authorities and those responsible for the Protected Area (Autonomous Government of Trinidad) and are being used as a baseline for monitoring the species. At the same time, the Environmental Education Center UNE in the city of Trinidad has a permanent exhibition of the results obtained from the project, thus strengthening environmental education in the city. This was the first research grant I received and as a result I have been able to start relationships with local institutions, which are key to the long-term research on and conservation of the Bolivian river dolphin. With the support of IFS, we also made innovative use of drones in our research in Bolivia.

MR CHEFOR FOTANG

Center for Indigenous Resources Management and Development (CIRMAD), Cameroon

Ecology and behaviour of wild Nigeria-Cameroon Chimpanzee in Kom-wum forest reserve and Mbi Crater Kefem landscape in the northwest region of Cameroon

My findings and two published papers have been shared with the Government of Cameroon. Kom-Wum Forest Reserve will soon be re-classified as a wildlife sanctuary and an Important Plant Area because I found many chimpanzee signs and suitable habitats outside the reserve boundaries and identified important plant species during my survey. Additionally, local environmental non-profit organisations working on wildlife

Initial construction activities for establishment of Benchmark Compost System (from left: Dr Nguyen Thanh Binh and three students: Mr Thien, Mr Thanh and Ms Tam).

Dr Moreblessing Chimweta with research assistant and farmers.

conservation in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve will soon send a report including my findings to the Royal Botanical Gardens in London, to speed up reclassification.

DR SYED MASHKOOR MOHSIN GILANI

University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan

Study on clonal groups, virulence genes, and antibiotic resistance of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) from poultry birds and their zoonotic potential

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a severe threat to global public health, causing a profound impact on morbidity and mortality. In Pakistan, antimicrobials have been used by the poultry industry for decades, resulting in multi-drug resistant bacteria in the poultry production chain, with serious public health risks. This project applied phenotypic and genotypic next-generation sequencing tools to assess the emergence of critically essential antimicrobials colistin and tigecycline resistance in E. coli sourced from the broiler production pyramid. Data regarding virulence genotyping and antimicrobial susceptibility of avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) isolates from Pakistan have been produced from this study. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) schemes targeting five or more virulence genes of APEC simultaneously have been optimised and this can be used in future for diagnosing APEC from poultry. Moreover, this study determined the possible drug resistance and susceptibility to drug of choice for colibacillosis. Poultry farmers have been advised to avoid colistin sulphate use as this leads to antimicrobial resistance. This is the first study on detecting virulence-associated genes (VAGs) and multidrug resistance among APEC isolates in Pakistan. In the future, the strains with the predominant set of VAGs can be used for colibacillosis diagnosis and as a potential vaccine candidate. Results from our analysis will contribute to the understanding of the transmission dynamics of horizontal or vertical gene transfer in the broiler production cycle, while providing the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) basis for resolution of strain differences required to describe the epidemiology of the spread of AMR from Farm to Fork.

DR JEAN NEPOMUSCENE HAKIZIMANA

Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania

Understanding the epidemiology and socio-economic impact of African Swine Fever in Rwanda

The growing domestic pig sector contributes to poverty reduction among smallholder pig keepers. However, the growing pig industry is threatened by African swine fever (ASF), a contagious disease caused by the ASF virus (ASFV) that causes high mortality, approaching 100%, in domestic pigs. In Rwanda, several ASF outbreaks in pigs have been reported to the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) and no ASFV from Rwanda has been subjected to complete genome sequencing. This study aims to perform complete genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis of ASFV causing recent outbreaks in Rwanda to better understand the transmission dynamics, early detection of the virus at the genomic level and possible control strategies. The diagnosis results from our IFS-funded project were communicated to the Rwandan veterinary authorities and appropriate recommendations and control measures were implemented. After getting positive African Swine Fever (ASF) results, a press release was issued to inform the public and domestic pig farmers about ASF preventive and control measures. The actions taken allowed the ASF outbreak in the country to be rapidly curbed. This project not only contributed to improved food security and livelihoods of local communities, especially for women who are the most active domestic pig farmers in Rwanda, but also protected ASFV-free regions from ASFV introductions. Thanks to our IFS grant, the number of partners with our institution has increased. Our project was carried out in three countries in collaboration with veterinary authorities. The scientific expertise and diagnostic capacity of the laboratory at our institution have been put in the service of concerned countries. This collaboration continues even after our IFS-funded project and on pathogens other than African swine fever.

DR UNIQUE NDUBUISI KEKE

Federal University of Technology, Minna, Nigeria

Exploring the spatial patterns of benthic macroinvertebrates

biodiversity in Nigerian streams

Mr Chefor Fotang’s research on wild Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee. A juvenile chimpanzee photographed by a wildlife camera in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve in Cameroon.

Dr Jean Nepomuscene Hakizimana preparing samples for African swine fever virus Next Generation Sequencing at the Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania.

The Niger State Ministry of Water Resources has adopted the surrogate indicator species as a compulsory and effective tool for monitoring water quality. They have reduced reliance on environmental variables and instead made mandatory use of the surrogate species identified in this study as ideal bioindicators of environmental quality. IFS support opened a number of promising research windows by connecting me with more experienced international and national researchers, and also broadened my research, statistical and analytical skills.

Université de Fada N’Gourma, Burkina Faso

Contribution to the development of agro-resources: Production of bioenergy from the anaerobic digestion of cashew nut (Anacradium occidentale) processing waste in Burkina Faso

Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, Kenya

Microbial diversity of salt lakes in Kenya

Other researchers are now consulting me concerning using the DADA2 pipeline amplicon sequencing I used during bioinformatics analysis. This is a result of my poster presentation at the 5th African International Biotechnology and Biomedical Conference (see Twitter AIBBC@AIBBC1). Local lakeside communities now know about the conservation, in line with the African Biogenome Project (https:// africanbiogenome.org/), which aims to conserve and improve African biological diversity. I held public meetings (‘Barazas’) with the help of the Kenya Wildlife Service when developing conservation awareness. My findings will be helpful to the government in policy-making, especially in the Kenya Wildlife Service, and I will submit my final report to them after graduation. I am also in contact with Real Integrated Pest Management, which produces biological pest controls, bio-enhancers and biofertilizers. After sharing my findings with them, they are keen to assist me with the coming study. The plant-promoting bacteria recovered from the previous study have good potential for sustainable agriculture and environment as biopesticides, biofertilizers and bioenhancers.

Cashew nut processing units in Burkina Faso generate thousands of tonnes of shells which constitute a source of environmental pollution. Biogas from anaerobic digestion showed the possibility of bioenergy recovery from cashew shells that can cover the energy needs of processing units. This study aimed to develop a bioenergy production technology from the mechanisation of cashew nut hulls. The study was designed to understand the safety of digestate better to avoid harmful effects on soils, crops and the environment. The results show that these small producers can use the cashew nut hulls to produce energy from their methanization. This technology would lead to a significant digestate production that could constitute a fertilizer. In addition to the two publications from this project, the results have been shared with small-scale processing units and producers in Burkina Faso. A protocol for dealing with drainage and fermentation issues was also developed and disseminated.

DR ANH THI LAN NGUYEN

University of Science, Vietnam National University, Hanoi, Vietnam

Gastrointestinal parasite infections and self-medication of the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey (Rhinopithecus avunculus) in Ha Giang Province, Vietnam

My first IFS grant and publication provides the appropriate standards and training systems under the strategic mission of the Vietnam National University at Hanoi, and serves as an essential reference for students majoring in zoology and ecology, and those interested in the study of primate nutritional ecology, as well as a research document to contribute to the development of primatology in our country. My second IFS grant expanded the research direction on gastrointestinal parasites in the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey and on plant secondary compounds with anti-parasitic and antibacterial properties. Plant species such as Garcinia

DR CATHERINE WACHERA KIAMA

DR MAHAMADI NIKIEMA

Field work during sampling of microbial mat from a rock at Lake Oloiden in Kenya, a saline alkaline lake. From left, Mr Josphat Muthanga, Microbiology Technician; Dr Anne Kelly Kambura, Supervisor; Dr Catherine Wachera Kiama; and Dr Julius Mugweru, Supervisor.

Dr Mahamadi Nikiema crushing the Anacardium shells.

fagraeoides, Garcinia vilersiana, Ficus subtecta, Schefflera enulose, Centis philippense and Polyalthia floribunda can be included as medicinal plants in developing forest corridors for habitat for the Tonkin snub-nosed monkey. Ha Giang Forest Protection Department is planning to use these plants to expand the habitat for this species next year in the Khau Ca area. Parasite data will help provide managers with appropriate and timely species conservation solutions. In addition, I will be training students in the Faculty of Biology to continue the conservation of primates in particular, and more broadly of wildlife in Vietnam.

DR

THI

THU TRAM NGUYEN

Can Tho University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vietnam

Natural products from Vietnamese lichens as potential anticancer agents

This study identified four common Vietnamese lichen species: Parmotrema poolii, P. tinctorum, Usnea baileyi and U. undulata, by macroscopic and microscopic determination of morphometric characteristics and by DNA analysis. The cytotoxic effect of three extracts (n-hexane, acetone and methanol) of each lichen species was evaluated against two human cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and NCI-H460) by sulforhodamine B assay. The key determination by macroscopic and microscopic characteristics has been used to identify the four lichen species. Additionally, several isolated compounds and lichen extracts with high cytotoxic activity have been used for further preclinical and clinical research towards application in supplemental/functional products for cancer treatment.

Burkina Faso. Through this project, the phytogenetic resources of this sorghum phenotype are also better known. Correlations between grain and fodder production characters in sweet sorghum of Burkina Faso have been established. Thus, the identification of the genotypes MBO7, MTC2, PGO3, SPI2, You5 and Yoh3 with high grain and fodder production will serve as parents for the production of dual-purpose sorghum in Burkina Faso. In addition, demonstrating an optimal dose of 100 kg/ha of NPK mineral fertilizer for the dual use of this cereal is an important advance in improving productivity and the development of this cereal. Also, due to nutritional value and fodder digestibility, this cereal is increasingly cultivated by producers as fodder. This project gave me a collaborative framework for exchanges with other scientists and other grantees through conferences and other research groups.

DR FÉLICIEN TOSSO

Laboratory of Applied Ecology, Benin

Exploring soil seed bank in two contrasted forest reserves in Benin (West Africa) for ecological restoration

With the IFS support, I have collected extensive and critical data on soil seed banks in two forest reserves in contrasting environments in Benin. These data have been directly useful for sustainable forest management, as the results of my project enabled the Lama Forest’s manager to establish a list of tree species absent in the soil seed bank. An operational planting plan of these species was developed. The results of my project found that the Wari-Maro dry forest in West-Central Benin is degraded with a lack of tree species in the soil seed bank. These results have led to the development of a large plantation project to restore this forest, which is planned to start soon. The next step in this project will be to evaluate the soil seed bank for the forests near Wari-Maro. The research done with the IFS grant has increased my visibility and enriched my network, thanks to the master’s thesis supervision and publication, and my presentation at conferences.

DR JOSIANE TIENDREBEOGO

Université Kizerbo, Burkina Faso

Selection of best varieties of sweet grain sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] from Burkina Faso for dual use: Food and fodder

This project supported by IFS has made it possible to select sweet grain sorghum genotypes with dual-use potential for the agricultural world. Their development would considerably contribute to a country with agro-pastoral vocations like

Dr Josiane Tiendrebeogo during field data collection in a trial during agro-morphological characterization in the IDR experimental station in Gampèla (Burkina Faso).

GRANTS

Enhancing Research Capacity in the Global South

IFS aims to enhance the research capacity of promising early-career scientists in the Global South as the most significant contribution the organisation can make in addressing local and regional aspects of global challenges such as the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources, both terrestrial and aquatic, and in food security and nutrition, including social and economic aspects. IFS provides tailored research capacity-enhancing support centred around competitive individual Basic Grants and Advanced Grants.

Basic Grants

Basic Grants (up to US$15,000 for each) cover costs of additional manpower, consumables, equipment, literature and travel for field work. Basic Grant applicants receive feedback from reviewers, scientific advisors and the IFS Secretariat. Successful applicants also receive help with purchasing equipment and consumables. Individual capacity-enhancement support is determined by the needs of the grantee and the nature of the research being conducted.

Advanced Grants

Advanced Grants (up to US$20,000 for each) are available to those who have successfully completed a Basic Grant and who are within five years of having completed their PhDs. Not only does the Advanced Grant support further research, thereby strengthening research skills, but also the development of a wider suite of skills essential to the development of a scientist. This includes helping foster an awareness of the role of Information and Communications Technology in society by requiring applicants to elaborate both a Theory of Change and a Research-Into-Use Plan in the application form. On completion of an Advanced Grant, IFS seeks evidence of skills development in networking, collaborative research, web presence, producing media pieces for general audiences, conference presentations, influencing (e.g., involvement in policy development) and science leadership (e.g., membership of science committees, leadership of research teams). Whenever grantees identify a need, IFS will also connect them with advisors willing to mentor them in areas such as experimental design, data collection and analysis.

Dr Jean Nepomuscene Hakizimana performing complete genome sequencing of African swine fever virus using MinION Mk1C Oxford nanopore sequencing platform at the Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania.

A selection of new Basic Grants awarded in 2022

IFS supports original research proposals that are innovative and/or relevant to local or national development needs and problems, aiming to generate fundamental and/or applicable scientific knowledge. The three research clusters are:

Since many topics within the three areas overlap, research projects that integrate or cut across them are encouraged, as are projects that incorporate social aspects such as human interactions with the natural world. Although the research clusters are given certain boundaries, they are circumscribed by the overarching and broader context of climate change, which is of urgent and global concern. Thus, the funded research projects are intended to generate knowledge, outcomes and post-project impacts in support of the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.

Biological Resources in Terrestrial Systems

Biological Resources in Terrestrial Systems includes animal production, biodiversity, climate change, crop science, forestry, natural products, renewable energy and underutilized species.

DR SHIFERAW ABEBE, ETHIOPIA

Allometric modelling, biomass accumulation and carbon stock in Oxytenanthera abyssinica (Lowland bamboo) forests of Northwestern Ethiopia

Growing on the vast north-western savannah lowlands, Oxytenanthera abyssinica forest is a dominant bamboo species, comprising 85% of the bamboo resources of Ethiopia. However, little is known about this bamboo species’ carbon stock and sequestration potential due to the lack of site- and speciesspecific models. This study intends to formulate species-specific allometric models and quantify the biomass and carbon storage of O. abyssinica forest. A destructive sampling method will be employed for harvesting sample culms. Data analysis will be conducted with R

statistical software, and ANOVA will be employed to show variation in the bamboo components and age classes. The study will formulate aboveground and belowground biomass allometric models; the total biomass and carbon storage of O. abyssinica forests will be estimated. The role of O. abyssinica forests in sequestering CO2 from the atmosphere and mitigating climate change will be valued. Finally, strategies for enhancing the productivity and sustainable management of O. abyssinica forests will be forwarded.

MS JOANNE ADERO, UGANDA Identification and validation of genetic markers for host resistance against sweet potato viruses

Sweet potato is the world’s seventh most

important food, income and nutritional security crop. However, its production worldwide is majorly constrained by viruses, mainly sweet potato virus disease (SPVD), a co-infection of sweet potato chlorotic stunt virus (SPCSV) and sweet potato feathery mottle (SPFMV) that causes up to 98% of worldwide yield loss in sweet potatoes in cultivar degeneration and extinction. The genetic complexity of the crop has not only slowed the development of SPVDresistant cultivars, but also limited the generation of genetic information on host response and virus resistance mechanisms in sweet potato. This study will identify genetic markers for host resistance to SPVD. This will be achieved by conducting a transcriptome timeseries experiment where susceptible and resistant genotypes will be challenged

with SPVD viruses and samples collected at different time points of disease development to assess the genetic differences in susceptible and resistant varieties during infection. The output of the study will be the identification of genomic markers that facilitate breeding for resistance to SPVD, through effective introgression of resistance genes into breeding pools, and farmer-preferred sweet potato varieties. This study will also contribute to further understanding of the complex sweet potato genome.

DR SOLONGO AMGALAN, MONGOLIA

Phytochemical constituents and biological activity of Mongolian medicinal plant Leptopyrum fumarioides (L.)

Reichenb

Traditional medicine plays an important role in the Mongolian health system. Methods of natural science are applied to investigate this ancient medical system and prove the efficacy of these therapeutic methods. Leptopyrum fumarioides has been used in Mongolian traditional medicine to treat various diseases such as fever, increased blood pressure, liver, cardiovascular, and gastrointestinal disorders, and various intoxications and dropsy. The use of

many medicinal plants lacks supporting scientific data and their use as drugs is based solely on traditions perpetuated for generations. Therefore, it is important to study traditional medicinal plants’ chemical composition and biological activities and provide scientific information and confirmation for their medicinal applications. L. fumarioides is one such example. We will study the low molecular weight secondary metabolites and some biological activity of L. fumarioides of Mongolian origin. We will also carry out element analysis of raw materials and develop quality and quantity standards. We hope the data obtained from this project will allow a sustainable approach to the scientific use of L. fumarioides.

MS NAKIGULI FATUMAH, UGANDA

Assessment of the post-release effects of the reintroduced Barbour’s Vlei rodent (Otomys barbouri) population in Mabira Forest, Central Uganda

Barbour’s Vlei (Otomys barbouri) is Uganda’s only endemic rodent species, restricted in the native ecosystem along the slopes of Mt Elgon. Over the last two decades, the rodent

population has declined tremendously due to inbreeding depression, habitat fragmentation, and arable farming. Currently, Otomys barbouri is considered endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. To increase and conserve the Otomys barbouri population, a study on captive-breeding and the soft-release of Otomys barbouri into new suitable sites was conducted. However, due to the limited post-release monitoring period, the success of this re-introduction programme was not fully understood. Therefore, this study seeks to assess post-release effects of reintroduced Otomys barbouri in Mabira Forest. Specifically, the study will assess the presence and abundance of Otomys barbouri in release sites, determine the survival and seasonal reproduction of Otomys barbouri, implement an exsitu treatment programme for Otomys barbouri, and build the capacity of farmers in conservation and sustainable management of rodents.

MR CHEFOR FOTANG, CAMEROON Plant diversity, ant availability and conservation status of wild NigeriaCameroon chimpanzee in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve, North West Region, Cameroon

Ms Joanne Adero doing graft inoculation of experimental plants in the screen house at the National Crops Resources Research Institute (NaCRRI), Uganda.

Mr Chefor Fotang, dressed in an army camouflage pullover, explains protected primates to field guide in Kom-Wum forest Reserve in Cameroon, using the west African primate field manual.

Dr Solongo Amgalan, Mongolia.

Ms Nakiguli Fatumah breeding and rearing of rat species, Uganda.

This project aims to determine plant diversity, investigate ant availability, and determine trends of illegal activities in relation to chimpanzee encounter rate in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve in Cameroon. Plant diversity will be determined in habitat plots placed along line transects established in the reserve and one terrestrial herbaceous vegetation plot sampled consistently in one corner within each habitat plot. Ant availability will be determined by counting ant foraging trails and active ant nests along transects. Human signs, direct observation and indirect signs of chimpanzee presence, will be counted along the line transect to determine trends in human activities. Trends of human and chimpanzee signs will be calculated as the number of human and chimpanzee signs per km transect for two seasons.

DR BERNARD KIVUMBI, UGANDA

Carbonized briquettes produced from blending potassium nitrate, charcoal fines, and African Elemi resin

Charcoal is the predominant fuel used in most developing countries. Transport and handling of charcoal produce fines which are dumped as waste. The charcoal fines can be converted from waste to energy through briquetting using suitable binders. The binders most commonly used include starch, molasses and clay. However, starch is used as food, and molasses may be in limited supply, while clay is non-combustible. The

briquettes produced using African Elemi (Canarium Schweinfurthii) resin as binder were tested on a natural draught cookstove and found to produce a lot of smoke and soot. Primary and secondary pollutants affect the environment and human health. It is envisaged that blending the briquettes with potassium nitrate would mitigate the smoke and soot so that they burn cleaner. This research aims to investigate briquettes produced from blending charcoal fines, African Elemi resin, and potassium nitrate.

MS JUDITH KOBUSINGE, UGANDA

Determining the distribution of fine roots and water use in Robusta coffee growing under Albizia coriaria and Ficus natalensis agroforestry systems compared to open sun

Coffee is one of Uganda’s most important cash crops, grown by about 1.7 million households, usually under agroforestry systems that are popular because they provide shade, food and timber; conserve biodiversity; and modify microclimate, among other benefits. The National Coffee Research Institute of Uganda has developed and recommended agroforestry systems for diverse coffee growing agro-ecologies based on abundance, farmer preference, and not being an alternative host for the black coffee twig borer. However, the greatest challenge is identifying best-bet shade agroforestry systems that

optimize the capture of scarcely available water supplies and minimize inevitable competition between trees and crops. Therefore, this study will characterize the distribution of the fine roots of Robusta coffee and shade trees and the water use of Robusta coffee growing under agroforestry systems compared to the open sun. The study will inform the best-bet shade systems for inter-planting in Robusta coffee agro-systems.

MS ESTHER MWANGI, KENYA

Assessing the genetic impact of interspecific hybridization between Agapornis fischeri (Fischer’s lovebird) and Agapornis personatus (Yellowcollared lovebird) in the wild in Kenya

The increase of genetic diversity through hybridization can drive the formation of new species or lead to the extinction of parental species when hybrids are favoured persistently. Congeners Fischer’s lovebird (Agapornis fischeri) and Yellow-collared lovebird (Agapornis personatus) are native to Tanzania but are now found in Kenya. These two species are known to hybridise and currently most of the individuals found in Kenya are hybrids placing the Fischer’s lovebird at a higher risk of genetic swamping by the Yellowcollared lovebird due to its decreasing population. This study will assess the effect of interspecific hybridisation on the genetic diversity of the threatened Fischer’s lovebird using morphological characteristics and molecular markers.

Ms Esther Mwangi, Kenya, extracting the captured bird from the mist net.

Dr Mengie Belayneh and elderly farmers discussing and measuring the current extent of gullies in Gumara watershed, Ethiopia.

Dr Bernard Kivumbi, Uganda, weighing a sample of charcoal fines on the electronic weighing scale.

Ms Aneela Nawaz, Pakistan, observing the degradation of biofilm of multi drug resistant Pseudomonasaeruginosa by bacteriophages.

Ms Amna Rafiq, Pakistan, preparing LAMP assay for virus detection.

Mr Issaka Zida, Burkina Faso, placing infested fruits in the augmentorium.

The study will be conducted mainly in two of Kenya’s counties (Nakuru and Nairobi), selected as urban areas where both species have been observed. The findings of this study will aid in the conservation management of these species, while providing insights on the effect of hybridisation on the less abundant Fischer’s lovebird.

MS ANEELA NAWAZ, PAKISTAN

Bacteriophages’ proteins: Alternative approach to antibiotics against Gramnegative bacteria in resistance era

The emergence of resistance in Gramnegative bacteria to antibiotics is becoming a grave threat to infection control, a health problem crossing international boundaries, and is considered a scourge of this era. If no appropriate action is taken, it has been estimated that this will lead to more than ten million deaths per annum by 2050. To combat this deadly problem, there is an urgent need to develop new antibiotics as well as new treatment strategies. In the past few years, increased attention has been paid to the possibility that novel therapies utilising bacteriophages could be deployed. However, there are many complications associated with phage therapy. One alternative to using phages for treatment is the utilization of purified lytic proteins of phage origin. We propose manipulating phage endolysin through genetic engineering and protein modelling to enhance its catalytic activity and spectrum.

MS AMNA RAFIQ, PAKISTAN

Development of instrument-free, inexpensive, paper-based devices for the detection of agricultural pathogens

Cotton has significance in the oil and seed industry and its importance as fibre. For decades, cotton yield has been drastically affected by a viral disease complex named cotton leaf curl disease (CLCuD), leading to drastic declines in cotton production and causing an estimated loss of USD 5 billion per annum toward Pakistan’s economy. In addition to cotton, disease with CLCuD symptoms was observed in various other hosts in India, China, Indonesia,

Philippines and many parts of Africa, thus considered a possible threat to cotton in these countries. Consequently, the dire solution for disease control is its in-time detection and taking measures to manage virus spread. Techniques currently used are arduous, time-consuming, and require expensive instrumentation and skilled expertise. This project aims to develop an inexpensive paper origami-based lateral flow microfluidic device consisting of three chambers, thus making a multiplex system to perform different functions on the site of infection. The output of this study is a detection device for on-site and in-time diagnosis.

DR AYODELE SOGE, NIGERIA

Detection of wood decay and hollows in living trees using electrical resistivity method

Wood decay and hollows in living tree stems are responsible for some tree failures that often lead to human tragedy and property destruction, especially during stormy weather. The ecological value of a tree in preserving the environment from the hazard of climate change is severely hampered by wood decay and tree hollows. Besides, wood decay decreases a living tree’s wood density, reducing its economic worth. The possible disaster and attendant economic loss caused by collapsed trees could be prevented if such defects are detected early for timely intervention in cutting down the affected trees. Therefore, this study will detect the location and extent of wood decay and hollows in living trees using an earth resistivity meter and a modified form of the Schlumberger electrode configuration. The outcome of this project will assist in the risk assessment and management of forest and urban trees.

DR MENGIE BELAYNEH TIRUNEH, ETHIOPIA

Evidence-based implementation of soil and water conservation for effective watershed management in Gumara watershed, Northwestern Ethiopia

Rainfall-led soil erosion has been the main challenge for agricultural production and productivity

sustainability in the Ethiopian highlands. In particular, the Gumara watershed has been experiencing severe soil erosion in all its forms (i.e., sheet, rill and gully). Soil and water conservation (hereafter SWC) measures have been implemented in the watershed for the last two decades. Although these conservation practices showed essential implications in reducing soil erosion, the effects have not been as planned and the problem of soil erosion remains high. Therefore, comparing different types of SWC methods and their combinations may help to adapt, plan, implement and further reduce land degradation. It is expected that this research project will produce scientific output such as the selection of the most effective SWC methods, analysis of the actual effect of integrating vetivar grass strips on runoff and soil loss, and the relationship of rainfall characteristics with runoff and soil loss, and rehabilitation of the degraded gullies and control of the expansion of actively sliding gullies.

MR ISSAKA ZIDA, BURKINA FASO

Vegetable crop-infesting fruit flies in Burkina Faso: Extent of damage, main species responsible and control tests

Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are recognized as one of the most economically important insects that seriously threaten fruit and vegetable production in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Burkina Faso, data are available on fruit flies associated with cultivated and native fruit species. However, little is known about those responsible for damage to vegetable crops. This study aims to establish fruit fly species diversity and monitor the fluctuations of their populations in market garden sites, assess the extent of damage caused by fruit flies on vegetable crops of economic importance, identify the main species responsible, identify parasitoid species associated with vegetable cropinfesting fruit flies, and manage infested fruits in market garden sites by using augmentoria. This study will provide data to develop integrated control strategies against fruit flies infesting vegetable crops in Burkina Faso.

INCREASING PRODUCTION OF RESEARCH GRANTS

Water and Aquatic Resources

Water and Aquatic Resources includes the availability of water resources, and their conservation and use; freshwater, brackish and marine aquatic organisms and their environments and exploitation through fisheries and aquaculture; and issues associated with water-related institutions.

DR WILLIAM WILSON ANKU, GHANA

InoTechWater: Innovative and low-cost technology for fluoride removal from water

The InoTechWater project is intended to improve access to safe water by communities using fluoridecontaminated groundwater in Ghana by developing a simple, efficient and cost-effective point-of-use water treatment technology for household and community use. The development of such technology is necessary because groundwater has become the primary source of safe water in most parts of Ghana due to surface water pollution through indiscriminate gold mining activities. The existing foreign treatment methods are too expensive for the ordinary person while the tested locally developed methods are ineffective. The treatment agent will consist of Ca and Mg nanoparticle-modified activated biochar incorporated into porous calcium alginate beads (Ca-Mg/ABC@ PCAB) to be synthesised using agroindustrial wastes. Utilising such a device will ensure easy access to safe water, alleviate the detrimental effects of unsafe water consumption on the well-being and economic productivity of people in Ghana and Africa with similar problems, and support SDG 6.

MR DÉLAGNON ASSOU, TOGO

Ichthyological communities in Togo’s coastal lagoon system: Diversity, ecology, and exploitation

Fisheries are an essential natural resource for the Togo national economy, and a significant income-generating activity for many households living around these resources. In fact, fish represent one of the most utilised components of

biodiversity, and if well managed, can contribute towards achieving the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. Despite the benefits that local communities derive from fish, they are threatened on the one hand by climate change and on the other by human activities that limit their conservation. The proper management of fisheries resources requires a good knowledge of biological and ecological parameters of this critical biodiversity component, and of the impacts that human activities and climate change is having on the natural stocks to ensure sustainable utilization. In Togo, scientific data on fish and fisheries are currently minimal. To understand and improve the scientific knowledge of the biology, population ecology, and seasonal variation of fish communities in Togo’s lagoon system, it is essential to study the diversity patterns, community characteristics, and ecological drivers of fish assemblages in the lagoon system, and thus to provide a sound basis for decision-making that can aid future conservation planning and sustainable use of fishery resources.

DR ENOCH BESSAH, GHANA

Co-production of integrated indigenous and scientific weather and seasonal climate forecast for water resources management and food production in the Pra River Basin of Ghana

Climate variability and its impacts on the agriculture system are evident in Ghana. The weather and seasonal climate forecast information service has been in operation for some time in the country. However, findings from initial work in the Pra River Basin show that only about 30% of farmers have access to weather forecasts which most of the time fail. Therefore, the information

is not helpful for farm-level decisionmaking. This has led to the reliance of the majority of farmers on their indigenous ecological knowledge to predict weather and seasonal climate patterns for farm-level decision-making for water resource management and food production. This study aims to improve climate information services through the co-production of farmer and scientific forecast systems. A multi-method research approach will be adopted, consisting of social participatory methods, mental modelling methods, forecast verification methods, and the principle of citizen science for data gathering and analysis. Results are expected to show the timing of climate information needs for farm-level decision-making and the contribution of indigenous forecasts in improving model-based seasonal forecasts to provide relevant information at farmers’ most preferred lead time.

MR LUIS GUIZADA DURAN, BOLIVIA

Understanding the Bolivian bufeo (Inia boliviensis) use of lentic habitats (lagoons) during a hydrological cycle in the middle basin of the Mamore River

The Bolivian river dolphin or bufeo (Inia boliviensis) is one of the four South American river dolphin species restricted to freshwater. Endemic to the upper Madeira basin in the Bolivian Amazon region, this species is categorized as “vulnerable” by the Bolivian Government and is a high priority for conservation due to human activities rapidly reducing its populations. We will study riverine habitats within its main distribution, leaving aside equally important habitats such as seasonal and permanent lagoons that host important

dolphin populations and vary according to seasonal hydrological changes. Using standardised zig-zag transect methodologies and drones, habitat use in lagoons will be determined during different hydrological seasons, to determine annual variations in usage. All the information obtained will respond to the current needs of the action plan for the conservation of the bufeo in Bolivia (2020-2025), continuing with information for the Bolivian natural heritage.

DR MUHAMMAD YOUNIS KHAN, PAKISTAN

Geophysical and geochemical characterization of Hazar Khwani open dumpsite at Peshawar, Pakistan: Implications for soil and groundwater management

Peshawar basin comprises quaternary fluvial and lacustrine sediments and is the largest in Pakistan’s southern foothills of the lesser Himalayas. The

basin is drained by three major rivers, significantly impacting agriculture, hydrology and the environment. Due to unplanned urbanisation, heavy transportation loads and high rates of industrialisation, there has been a dramatic increase in contamination. The Peshawar metropolis, in particular, poses severe threats to human and animal life. The rapid growth in population resulted in several challenges, e.g., the municipal solid waste (MSW) management across the globe and developing countries such as Pakistan where open dumpsites are considered a cheap source for MSW disposal. In this regard, the Illegal dumping of waste and subsequent environmental contamination is becoming common and problematic worldwide. A multi-disciplinary approach is appropriate to characterise dumpsites, combining near-surface geophysical and geochemical methods. This proposal will use Hazar Khwani as a study site in Peshawar, Pakistan. Based on the proposed integrated approach, the

derived results will enable us to produce an optimised workflow and protocols to investigate such open dumpsites in Pakistan’s immediate surrounding residential areas.

DR JOSIAH KUJA, KENYA

Comparative genomics: Spatial-temporal analyses of the dominant cyanobacteria and proteobacterial species across Lewis Glacier and its foreland in Mount Kenya

Lewis Glacier is one of the existing glaciers on Mount Kenya that is rapidly reducing in size by melting due to climate change and warming. The phenomenon threatens the loss of novel biodiversity that can be a bioprospecting resource to cold-active enzymes and freeze-resistant proteins that can be used as cryoprotectants in food and pharmaceutical industries. The initial study on Lewis Glacier revealed abundant cyanobacteria and proteobacteria across the glacier and its foreland. Consequently, their

Electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) equipment testing at the National Centre of Excellence in Geology, University of Peshawar, Pakistan. Dr M Younis Khan standing, MS/PhD students from left to right, Mr Nabeel Afzal, Mr Waqar, Mr Farhad Ali.

Mr Délagnon Assou, Togo, measuring water quality.

Dr William Wilson Anku, Ghana, with a stainless steel boiler converted into a gas-fired burrel retort for biochar production.

River dolphin count in the Mamore River, Bolivia, from left, Mr Enzo Aliaga, Mr Dave Edinger and Mr Luis Guizada Duran.

Dr Enoch Bessah interviewing a farmer [Mr Benjamin Akisco] on his climate information needs at Akwadruso in the Atiwa West District of Ghana.

Dr Josiah Kuja (center, yellow) and collaborators, Prof Jun Uetake, National Institute of Polar Research, Japan (left) and Mr Kenshiro Miyauchi, Chiba University, Japan (right) at the Lewis Glacier, Mount Kenya.

abundance was associated with reduced glacial surface reflectants, hence increased surface heat budget and subsequent melting. Cyanobacteria and proteobacteria phyla are known for their significance in the history of earth’s evolution and they remain novel candidates for bioprospecting from the equatorial Lewis Glacier. The proposed research aims at in-depth analyses of the genomic sequences of the known genera of phylum cyanobacteria and proteobacteria using global computational databases for metagenomic assemblies and genome annotations to reveal the significance of the cold-active enzymes and antifreeze proteins. These approaches will contribute to the African BioGenome Project’s databases for identifying and bioprospecting natural products for industrial utilisation.

DR RODGERS MAKWINJA, MALAWI

Elephant Marsh wetland ecosystem services under changing catchment: Implication on management and restoration effort

Elephant Marsh is ranked among the most vulnerable wetlands in Malawi, experiencing massive degradation of

ecosystem services (ESs) instigated by rapid population growth, increased poverty, landscape transformation, climatic drivers, and over-exploitation, hampering the effort to achieve the SDGs. The study’s first objective is to quantify the land use/land cover (LULC) dynamics’ implication on Elephant Marsh ecosystem service value (ESV) from 1989 to 2019. This objective will depict the current trend and vulnerability of each ES due to landscape transformation to encourage policy-makers and various stakeholders to undertake action to reverse the situation. The second objective will use the contingent valuation method (CVM) and logistic regression model to determine the public’s willingness to pay (WTP) for future wetland ecosystem restoration projects and the influencing factors. This objective aims to assess how local communities embrace the local governance system to manage the wetland effectively. It further integrates science into the policy framework to achieve a sustainable ecosystem services (ESs) flow and help policy-makers develop practical and relevant policies and make science-based decisions to respond to local challenges.

DR JOHN MBAKA, KENYA

Applying citizen science in biomonitoring of selected riverine ecosystems in Kenya Globally, environmental organisations are enhancing their utilisation of citizen science to increase their potential to monitor and manage the environment at large spatio-temporal scales. However, there is a scarcity of information on the application of citizen science in environmental monitoring in Kenya. The objectives of the study are to evaluate the effect of land use and seasonality on physico-chemical factors and invertebrates in selected streams in Kenya; assess the reliability of invertebrate data collected by citizen scientists in differentiating study sites based on the type of land use and season; and determine the relationship between data collected by a university lecturer and schoolchildren. The study will provide vital baseline information to Kenyan environmental organisations about the usefulness of citizen science in environmental monitoring, and the potential for its integration with state freshwater biomonitoring programmes and policies.

Dr Rodgers Makwinja, Malawi, sitting at the desk meeting the local leaders to understand the Elephant Marsh ecosystem dynamics and governance challenges.

Measuring water transparency at fish cage culture site in Lake Victoria, Kenya by Dr Safina Musa (standing).

Dr John Mbaka preparing to measure physio-chemical parameters at the Nyangoto River, Kuria west subcounty, Migori County, Kenya.

DR SAFINA MUSA, KENYA

Estimation of nutrient loading in the wastes of Nile tilapia reared in cages in a eutrophic lake

Carried out fundamentally in open systems, cage culture-derived nutrients may exacerbate the quality of lacustrine environments. Despite the rapidly increasing trend in cage fish farming in the tropical/subtropical regions, there is a paucity of information on estimates of nutrient loads deposited in the environment from cage aquaculture. Yet, developing sustainable and environmentally-friendly aquaculture requires estimating the amount of waste associated with such systems. This study will use a mass balance model to estimate the nitrogen and phosphorus loads released into the aquatic environment from Nile tilapia cage aquaculture fed on soybean meal-based diets supplemented with different levels of phytase enzyme in Lake Victoria, Kenya. The findings will guide policy formulation towards the development of aqua-feeds with minimal environmental impact. The study will also be a step towards determining the ecological carrying capacity of cage culture sites as every ecosystem has a maximum assimilative capacity.

DR JEAN CLAIR NGOAY-KOSSY, CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

Planktonic diversity and physicochemical of Crocodiles Lake (southwest Central African Republic)

Knowledge of the resource and the assessment of needs are essential prerequisites for a comprehensive and balanced management of aquatic environments. Few studies have been undertaken on aquatic ecosystems in the Central African Republic. This project is a hydrobiological study of Crocodiles Lake located in the southwest of the Central African Republic. This lake, which is a tourist site, has no scientific database and is famous for the presence of crocodiles. The study concerns planktonic diversity, excellent bioindicators of lake environments, in relation to the physicochemical characteristics of water. The objective is

to determine the ecological state of this lake to put in place a master plan for its watershed.

At the end of this study, a database on the morphology, physicochemistry, diversity of planktonic organisms and the ecological state of the lake will also be known.

MS THI MAI NGUYEN, VIETNAM

Study on the effect of dietary peptidoglycan and probiotic on growth, feed utilisation, immune response, and pathogen resistance in striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus

The striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus is an economic fish species in Vietnam and elsewhere in the world, providing a large amount of fish for human consumption. However, the farming of this species has recently coped with many problems due to disease outbreaks and the consequences of the indiscriminate use of antibiotics. The fish immune system could be stimulated by exogenous agents including probiotics, immunostimulants, and other bioactive compounds. Peptidoglycan is an important component of positive gram bacteria, and has been reported to act as an immunostimulant in mammals. However, the data on fish are still limited, and no results have been documented in striped catfish. This study will assess the effect of use alone or combined with dietary peptidoglycan with probiotics on striped catfish’s growth performance and health status.

MS ANNA OTIENO, KENYA

Aquatox modelling of the influence of land use and land cover changes on water quality, macroinvertebrates and macrophytes distribution in Ondiri swamp, Kiambu County, Kenya

Wetlands play an essential role in water quality regulation and flood control as well as support of biodiversity, yet are facing severe threats from land conversion driven by anthropogenic pressure. This study assesses land use types and land cover changes around Ondiri swamp, a major Nairobi River source facing unprecedented threats from commercial and agricultural practices. The broad objective of the study is to assess the current and future impacts of land use and land cover changes on water quality, macroinvertebrates and macrophytes of the Ondiri swamp. The specific objectives are to assess the land use and land cover change over a period of thirty years (1990-2020); determine the correlation between water quality and macroinvertebrate and macrophyte composition in Ondiri Swamp; evaluate the impacts of land use and land cover changes on water quality, macroinvertebrate and macrophyte composition of the swamp; and predict future land use and cover change impacts on water quality using the Aquatox model. Conclusions and recommendations regarding the suitability of the model will be drawn.

Ms Thi Mai Nguyen, Vietnam, analysing a sample. Ms Anna Otieno, Kenya, using a light microscope to determine the presence, species types and numbers of macroinvertebrates.

Food Security, Dietary Diversity and Healthy Livelihoods

Food Security, Dietary Diversity and Healthy Livelihoods includes agricultural and/or livestock production, extension services, food security, food value chains, irrigation, markets and trading systems, primary health care, sustainable agricultural practices, and vulnerability and resilience.

DR TOLULOPE ADEBOWALE, NIGERIA

Fortification of cassava by-product as an alternative to maize in meat-type poultry birds production

Higher feed costs, fuelled by competing use demands for corn and soybeans and rising energy prices, affect livestock industries. Agricultural by-products and wastes offer a tremendous opportunity for developing countries to reduce the high cost of poultry production. Nigeria harvests about 59 million tonnes of cassava (Manihot esculenta) yearly, resulting in about 15 million tonnes of wet cassava peel, produced as a consequence of cassava processing. It is low in protein but contains a high amount of carbohydrates, causing an environmental problem with disposal. To reduce the cost of animal feed and prevent the resultant widespread environmental pollution from cassava processing, the utilization of peels in monogastric feeding has been suggested. Therefore, this study aims to apply improved processing methods, forming a high-quality cassava peel meal, and then fortifying it with natural high protein sources or synthetic sources of amino acids. The highly processed and fortified cassava peel meal is expected to be competitive with maize in broiler chickens’ feeding programmes regarding economic feasibility and environmental sustainability.

DR DEBORAH RUTH AMULEN, UGANDA

Molecular characterisation of the unassigned (unique) bee gut bacteria

identified in Uganda as a follow-up study

In the previous study, honeybee samples were collected from landscapes of increased agrochemical activity and near-natural habitats to screen for the diversity of their gut microbiome. This was the first study in Uganda and the second in East Africa to focus on the characterisation of bee gut microbiome, and revealed high variability of bee gut microbiome with many unknown or unassigned bacteria in honeybee guts from high agrochemical use landscapes. As such, it was hypothesised that these unassigned bacteria could adapt honeybees from these landscapes to pesticide-induced stress. To test this hypothesis, additional bee samples will be collected from wildlife conservation areas (no pesticide use) and domestic wildlife interface where acaricides and insecticides are extensively used for tick and tsetse control on livestock. The new findings are expected to provide the necessary scientific evidence to understand the drivers of bee colony decline in domestic bee rearing landscapes in Uganda.

DR JOSIAH MWANGI ATEKA, KENYA

Effect of participatory forest management on household food and nutrition security in Kenya

In developing countries, forests play a significant role in supporting the livelihoods and food and nutrition security (FNS) of communities living adjacent to them. Despite their essential contribution, forests are being degraded at higher rates than other natural

ecosystems. In Kenya, over 80% of the land is arid and semi-arid (ASAL), and only 7% is forest area, rapidly deteriorating due to overexploitation. This situation is unsurprising given that much of the current discourse on FNS has often remained productioncentric. Consequently, most efforts fail to recognise that the expansion of agricultural systems could threaten some of the contributions of forests to FNS, especially among vulnerable groups. Participatory Forest Management (PFM) policies have been promoted on the dual expectation of enhanced livelihood and conservation outcomes. While there is increased emphasis on using PFM to conserve forests and improve livelihoods, its effectiveness remains poorly understood with few studies focusing on this dimension. This study will apply the forest dependence and FNS framework to assess the effects of PFM participation on household food and nutrition security among forest-dependent rural households in Kenya.

DR MERCY BADU, GHANA

Structural characterisation of micro-nutritional, antioxidant, antiinflammatory specific compounds found in oilseeds and their respective bioavailability

Malnutrition and hunger are increasing in Ghana, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. The savannah areas are the most widely affected, with nearly one in every five children under five years stunted, while one in every ten children under five is underweight. This puts them at risk of poor brain development, weak learning, low immunity, increased

infections and, in many cases, death. Through rigorous research, many different oil-bearing seed species have been found with oil yields of up to 52% and crude protein contents of up to 29%. Some of the seeds have been shown to contain significant levels of mineral elements and essential bioactive compounds with considerable antioxidant, anti-inflammatory activities, and high phenolic content. This project seeks to isolate and characterise potential medicinal compounds from the seeds and test their biological properties. This will help promote the seeds as food material. Additionally, the study will investigate the bioavailability and accessibility of the compounds in the gastrointestinal tract using in-vitro digestion and absorption assays.

MR FARSI HICHAM, MOROCCO

Sleep and circadian rhythms under harsh desert biotope conditions: Effect of heat stress and dehydration in the dromedary camel and the Moroccan black desert goat

The dromedary camel and the black desert goat play an important socioeconomic role in Morocco. Indeed, husbandry of both species contributes 14% to GDP, covering milk and meat needs for local populations. Under both intensive and extensive systems, these animals are exposed to harsh conditions of their biotope, specifically elevated temperatures during the day, affecting their production. The first objective of the project is to verify whether the desert black goat exhibits an adaptive heterothermy as seen in the camel and the oryx when exposed to heat stress and dehydration. Moreover, this project aims to understand the mechanisms inducing and controlling sleep and the general activity in desert environments which are important for the breeding management of these species. The other objective is to build fundamental knowledge on the behavioural and polysomnographic sleep in camel and Moroccan black goats and then to verify whether dehydration and heat stress

could induce a temporal niche switching or desynchronising of the circadian clock of the two species.

DR YAYA IDRISSOU, BENIN

Integration of trees and/or shrubs in cattle farming in Benin as a strategy with adaptation and mitigation co-benefits to climate change

To cope with the adverse effects of climate change (CC), cattle farmers in Benin have developed several adaptation strategies classified into three groups: integrating livestock with crops; fodder cropping and use of feed concentrates; and pastoral mobility. The strategy of the first two groups improves livestock productivity in the context of CC although research has revealed that the carbon sequestration potential of farms adopting of strategies is low due to the absence of trees and/or shrubs, which could therefore act as net carbon emitters. To indeed cope with CC, strategies developed by cattle farmers

Dr Deborah Ruth Amulen, Uganda, starting microscopy to check for parasites of honey bees.

Mr Farsi Hicham, Morocco, and PhD student Mr Younes Beniaich characterising sleep and activity rhythms in domestic animals adapted to living in harsh desert conditions.

Dr Tolulope Adebowale, Nigeria, using a combined grater and grinder to pulverize and grind the dried leaves for the fortification of processed cassava waste. Dr Tolulope Adebowale (wearing white lab coat) and his students (wearing green lab coats).

Dr Josiah Mwangi Ateka, Kenya, conducts a focus group discussion with members of the Ngare Ndare Forest community.

must also contribute to CC mitigation. One such option is the integration of trees and/or shrubs in livestock farming, which can increase livestock productivity and provide ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration in the soil and the biomass of trees. This study aims to assess the socio-ecological indicators to promote integrating trees and/or shrubs in cattle farming in Benin’s dry and subhumid tropical zones. The results of this study will provide cattle farmers with effective CC mitigation and adaptation strategies in Benin.

DR SAMIA KDIDI, TUNISIA

Design of small SNP panel to predict dairy breed proportion in Tunisian crossbred goat population

DNA markers are being used to assess breeds’ purity and composition. In goats, high-density single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP), which contains tens of thousands of SNP markers across the whole genome, is commercially available. The genomic data (genotypes of these SNPs) and computational methods allow the assignment of individual animals to their breed of origin and the estimation of breed composition. However, high-density

SNP assays remain too expensive for routine application, thus the development of small subsets of SNPs from commercially available panels using several computational methods. Smallholder dairy farming in Tunisia uses crossbred goats that combine local adaptation traits of the native population with high-potential milk yielding exotic dairy breeds. Pedigree recording is absent in such systems, meaning that farmers do not know the breed composition of their crossbreds to make appropriate mating decisions. Thus, this project aims to develop a small SNP panel from a commercially available goat SNP65 BeadChip to estimate dairy breed proportion in Tunisian crossed goats.

MS MELAINE EUGENIE MAGANG KEMTA, CAMEROON

Assessing hidden skin-dwelling trypanosomes on the transmission of human and animal African trypanosomiases: Importance of one health concept

African Animal Trypanosomiasis (AAT) is one of the most important livestock diseases that cause major constraints to livestock production in Sub-Saharan Africa. Controlling AAT is becoming urgent, especially with the prohibition

of hunting activities, and the socioeconomic and environmental mutations observed in affected areas such as Human African Trypanosomiasis (HAT) foci. In many of these foci, animal trypanosomes circulate sympathetically with human pathogenic trypanosomes that cause HAT. Animals seem to play a role as reservoirs in maintaining and transmitting human pathogenic parasites. Eliminating HAT and AAT in affected areas, therefore, requires a better understanding of the impact of skin-dwelling trypanosomes in the transmission of African trypanosomiasis. This study will generate data on skin dwelling trypanosomes in Cameroon and will also enable an understanding of their importance in the epidemiology of AAT. It would also help to design new control strategies for eliminating AAT and HAT.

MRS PHUONG HONG LE, VIETNAM

Adding value of coconut by-products through bioconversion technology

Improving food and agricultural production efficiencies is key to solving the globally expanding population. Currently, one-third of the food

Dr Samia Kdidi collecting blood sample from a Tunisian native goat.

Ms Prisca Chekam Meffowoet holding two species of snails selected for the study.

Ms Melaine Eugenie Magang Kemta, Cameroon, observing trypanosomes from the field in microscope.

Mrs Phuong Hong Le, Vietnam, sterilizing the culture medium.

Dr Smith Nkhata in maize field at LUANAR farm.

Dr Ophelia Soliku, Ghana, with women of the Murugu Organic Shea Butter Processing Center.

produced by humans is wasted. To produce a food product, roughly an amount of non-food by-products is also generated, causing a significant environmental impact. However, if value can be added, agricultural by-products can produce other environmentallyfriendly products with a high market value. In Vietnam, coconut is the main tree to adapt to climate change. It is thus important to establish a strategy for developing coconut products that balance government priorities with profits for farmers. Young coconut water is freshly consumed, and mature coconut kernel is mainly used to make coconut milk. Interestingly, mature coconut water has high amounts of amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals that can be a nutrient medium for the growth of microorganisms. This project, therefore, aims to enhance the value of mature coconut water through bioconversion technology using lactic acid bacteria fermentation. After that, research will be carried out to formulate a coconut-based yoghurt from this fermented substrate.

MS PRISCA CHEKAM MEFFOWOET, CAMEROON

Internal and external parasites of edible wild snails in Cameroon: Potentials impact on public health

Giant African snails are a source of protein popular with equatorial African people. The primary source of snail supply is picking, although it is clear that people who consume this meat are unaware of the health risks they face. Awakening the awareness of local populations to the potential risks related to the consumption of infested meat is a crucial and decisive aspect of snail farming. In Cameroon, no precise bibliographic information is available and only predators and competitors of snails are mentioned. This project aims to raise the awareness of local populations and improve knowledge on parasites that can infest edible snails in the areas where the climate is conducive for developing these molluscs in Cameroon. The present study, in addition to identifying parasites that infest edible snails, will highlight the public health risks associated with the consumption of these snails by

local populations. The results will provide a database on the risks of zoonosis transmission related to snail consumption and handling in captive breeding.

DR SMITH NKHATA, MALAWI

Enhancement of Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags’ performance for maintaining nutrition quality of vitamin A maize (biofortified maize) during postharvest storage

Improved nutrition is a big part of human capacity development. Malnourished children do not attain their full potential even when nutrition improves later in life. Due to difficulties in achieving a nutritious diet in many developing countries due to the high cost of quality diets, the biofortification of staples such as maize with provitamin A carotenoids was started. The current recommended practices of storing maize grains in polypropylene woven bags, traditional granaries or metallic silos are adequate to protect grains from insects. However, they do not protect against loss of vitamin A (provitamin A carotenoids) as higher losses of the provitamin A carotenoids during storage have been reported, making the grains less nutritious by the time of consumption. While PICS bags’ utility in maintaining the nutrition quality of biofortified grains showed promising results, its dependence on commercial oxygen absorbers necessitates the exploration of more economically viable alternatives for scavenging oxygen inside the PICS bags by rural farmers. We want to test the hypothesis that increasing the physiological activity of grains within recommended storage moisture level could be the most effective and economical way to scavenge oxygen inside PICS bags by rural farmers instead of commercial scavengers.

DR AYOBAMI OLADEJO, NIGERIA

Effects of ultrasound, microwave and vacuum drying pre-treatment on the quality of plantain chips during deep fat frying

Plantain chips are a popular snack consumes particularly in developing countries. However, too much oil uptake

by the fried plantain chips poses serious health risks like heart disease, cancer and obesity. In the past, conventional methods have been applied to frying of foods to reduce the oil uptake by fried foods. But these methods are ineffective in bringing about a significant reduction in the oil uptake. Therefore, this project seeks to apply novel frying methods in the form of ultrasound, microwave, vacuum drying and their combinations as pre-treatment prior to deep fat frying. It is hypothesized that these novel frying methods would significantly reduce oil uptake without compromising fried plantain chips’ nutritional and physicochemical qualities.

DR OPHELIA SOLIKU, GHANA

Contribution of protected areas to the achievement of some Sustainable Development Goals: The linkages, immediate outcomes, challenges and way forward

Protected areas (PAs) have been marked by conflicts due to the multiple actors, varying interests and institutional structures connected with their management. These conflicts are pervasive in Sub-Saharan Africa where many rural people’s livelihoods are directly attached to forest and wildlife resources. While studies have established that well-managed PAs yield significant benefits that address both environmental and societal challenges, research on the contribution of PAs in achieving the SDGs has remained mainly at the global or conceptual level. There is generally a lack of empirical data for particular PAs and countries regarding PAs’ contributions to achieving the SDGs, which makes it difficult for PA managers and policy-makers to track progress and make informed decisions aimed at maximising the full benefits of PAs and addressing any challenges that arise. Therefore, this project aims to assess the contribution of PAs in Ghana to achieving specific SDGs. Results from this project will be crucial for managers of PAs and policy-makers to recognise the potential and challenges of protected areas in helping governments meet their global and national commitments for conservation and sustainable development.

Advanced Grants Update 2022

We implemented the new Advanced Grant scheme in 2021 in collaboration with Philippines-based SEARCA (Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture) with a Call for Research on Accelerating Transformation through Agricultural Innovation in Southeast Asia, a theme identified in response to the COVID pandemic. Summaries of the project descriptions of the ten Advanced Grant awardees appear in the 2021 Annual Report. In October 2022, IFS staff Nathalie Persson visited SEARCA to update our counterparts about grantees’ research situation, including challenges or delays that a few of them encountered due to the COVID situation or administrative issues. As a consequence, we agreed to extend our follow-up programme for one year until 2024. In December 2022, we followed up further on the progress of the ten grantees, as described below.

DR OANH NGUYEN CONG, VIETNAM

Potential for using some indigenous medicinal plants as feed additives relating to animal health, growth performance and meat quality of pigs in Northern Vietnam

A survey was conducted with 120 households who raised pigs and used medicinal plants in three provinces of Northern Vietnam. The results showed that 34 medicinal plants were mainly used for disease prevention and treatment. Data on chemical compositions, bio-active compounds of IP, and its antibacterial capacity show higher total polyphenol and flavonoid content found in green tea, Manilkara zapota leaves, and Mangifera leaves. A study on the effect of dietary supplementation of some medicinal plants on the growth performance and other parameters in piglets showed positive experimental results. We are also analysing the data from a study on the effect of dietary supplementation of some medicinal plants on growth performance and other parameters in finishing pigs. The COVID-19 pandemic partly affected the implementation schedule of the project. Also, strict rules of payment procedures in our institution contributed to the slower processing of expenses.

DR MILDRED GUIRINDOLA, PHILIPPINES

Food environment and socio-ecological attributes as drivers of food security before and during enhanced and general COVID-19 quarantines in Cavite, Philippines

The study analysed the effect of COVID-19 quarantine restrictions on household food environment and food

security. A combination of a crosssectional survey and Key Informant Interviews (KII) were employed in Cavite, Philippines, with 1,050 households, 597 food retailers and Local Government Unit (LGU) representatives. The data collection was conducted from August to December 2021, data encoding from October to February 2022, and data analysis from March to June 2022. The study results were disseminated through a dissemination forum with the concerned LGU stakeholders in December 2022. The study’s preliminary findings show a significant association between the changes in the selected variables in the food environment dimensions before the pandemic and during enhanced and general quarantine restrictions. Similarly, the food retail outlets’ day-to-day food retail operations and sales were also negatively affected by the implementation of quarantine restrictions, particularly during the enhanced quarantine. Using the questionnaire, the study classified the households as consistently or newly food insecure or combined consistently or newly food insecure based on their responses to their food security situation in 2019 before and in 2021 during the pandemic. The newly food insecure households were food secure before the pandemic but became food insecure during the pandemic. Consistently food insecure households, on the other hand, represent the chronic food insecure regardless of the pandemic. Findings also showed that households less likely to be newly-food insecure were able to buy food in formal food environments such as a grocery or supermarket, have higher food expenditure, own a refrigerator, and live in areas classified as high-income LGUs. Households who ate processed

foods during the enhanced quarantine have twice the odds of being newly food insecure. Households with higher odds of being consistently or newly food insecure have household heads who work as service and sales workers and work away from home. In addition, households with five or more members, beneficiaries of safety net programmes, who obtained food in a community pantry, and who cited eating more processed foods often during the enhanced quarantine, were more likely to be consistently or newly food insecure. The study was able to assess how the COVID-19 pandemic works within the realm of the household food environment and food security. The results can add information and policy recommendations for building foodresilient households and communities in the event of future food shocks.

DR TRAN NGUYEN DUY KHOA, VIETNAM

Application of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) in larviculture of mud crab (Scylla paramamosain)

The project proceeded with three experiments of mud crab larviculture with different light spectra, intensity and photoperiods. The results showed that light spectra significantly influence mud crab larvae’ growth, metamorphosis and survival. The red light was observed with low metamorphosis and survival of crab larvae, followed by yellow light and natural light. The metamorphosis, larval size, and survival were significantly higher under white, green, and blue light. Moreover, mud crab larvae exposed to 200W white LED light was recorded with the highest survival rate, followed by 150W white LED, but were not statistically different between these

Dr Mildred Guirindola interviews a food store owner in Barangay Salawag, Dasmarinas Cavite, Philippines.

Dr Oanh Nguyen Cong interviewing farmers in Northern Vietnam.

Dr Bui Thi Lam (centre) with (from left) colleagues Dr Nguyen Van Huong, Ms Tran Mai Loan, Dr Tran Thi Lan Huong and Dr Hoang Hai Ha.

Crablets attaching to the substrate in an experiment by Dr Tran Nguyen Duy Khoa.

two treatments. The survival rate of larvae exposed to blue LED light was significantly lower than with white LED light treatments. Besides, crab larvae exposed to 24L of white LED were recorded with the lowest metamorphosis index and survival rate, followed by 18D:6L and 12D:12L. These were significantly improved in the 6D:18L treatment, which was significantly higher than the 24L and 18D:6L treatments. The project has completed all the larviculture experiments, which accounted for 40% of the research plan. The sample analysis is in progress with the digestive enzyme evaluation. Gene expression analysis is expected to finish in August 2023.

DR BUI THI LAM, VIETNAM

Moving toward a healthier diet: Consumer intention to eat more vegetables and less meat in Vietnam

We have prepared two draft papers which will be submitted to high-quality journals. We are also designing a healthy food consumption booklet which will be applied with city households in Vietnam. This handbook on sustainable food consumption will be published on social media channels in April 2023, tagging IFS and SEARCA social media accounts. We will also deliver the hard copy of this handbook to our colleagues, students and 500 households from whom we collected primary data. In 2022, COVID-19 infection in the family affected investigation and data collection directly due to health reasons and the Vietnamese government’s social distancing policy. Therefore, we used online tools such as Zoom, MS Teams and Zalo to collect primary data from food consumers. We used IFS-SEARCA funding to hire food and nutrition experts. They are designing a healthy eating menu which will be widely published to social media users and food consumers. We have also been in touch with Prof Thomas Brunner, an expert in Consumer Behavior, Applied Psychology and Quantitative Social Science Methods, who gave valuable comments on the questionnaire.

DR THANH DIEN LE, VIETNAM

Isolation and characterization of bacteriophages for biocontrol of multidrugresistant Campylobacter jejuni in broilers

We ordered the chemicals, reagents and expendable supplies as listed in the proposal via a domestic company in Vietnam. However, due to the shortage of input materials, CCDA selective medium and Cefoperazone and Amphotericin B selective supplements had to wait 15 weeks for production and shipping from an international supplier. During this period, we already ordered and received other materials. In addition, we conducted two internal hands-on workshops for bacterial and bacteriophage isolation from environmental samples. We received the delayed supplies in December 2022 and intended to conduct the experiment. I needed to collaborate with another laboratory using a CO2 incubator because my new institution does not have one. However, the sensor of this incubator was broken during the experiment of bacterial propagation. To solve this problem, my institution supported the acquisition of a CO2 incubator and now I can access this equipment along with the new Biosafety Cabinet Class II. We planned for sample collection in Tien Giang Province in February 2023. Unfortunately, the avian influenza outbreaks in Vietnam and Cambodia were verified then. My institution’s Research Council recommended postponing sample collection until March 2023.

DR THIEN NGUYEN, VIETNAM

Experimental and computational NMR in detection, structure elucidation, and kinetic analysis of lipid oxidation products in fried foods in Vietnam

Cytotoxic and genotoxic lipid oxidation products (LOPs), such as peroxides, aldehydes, ketones, and alcohols, generated in culinary frying oils during high- temperature frying practices, may pass into fried foods, causing high risks of non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and prostate cancer, for regular consumers. Therefore, the method developments for detecting and identifying LOPs in fried foods interest producers and customers. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has been an invaluable tool for food compositional analysis, structure elucidation, and formation mechanism due to its ability to provide

important structural information without sample purification. In addition, the advancements of computational NMR have tremendously supported the difficult assignments of complex structures. The support of computational NMR would be helpful for solving difficult assignments and unstable peroxides. By unravelling the composition, the structures, and formation mechanism of LOPs in fried food, the proposed research will provide solid evidence about the presence of LOPs in fried foods, raise awareness of LOPs, and contribute to the establishment of a fair market.

MR HUU TIEN NGUYEN, VIETNAM Study on damaging potential and diversity of plant-parasitic nematodes associated with vegetables in Vietnam and development of biological control strategies using endophytic bacteria

We faced initial challenges in receiving funding for the project. It took almost one year to finish the necessary administrative procedures to obtain financing from IFS. However, we are pleased to report that we overcame this obstacle and received the funds required to continue our research. We conducted field trips to collect soil and root samples from 18 vegetable species in four sampling areas: Lao Cai, Hai Duong, Nam Dinh, and Lam Dong. Collecting these samples is a crucial part of our research, and we completed this task. The project has also extracted nematodes from all the soil and root samples collected during the field trips. This step was vital in identifying and characterizing the nematode species in the collected samples. The project has also performed morphological and molecular characterizations to identify the different nematode species. I prepared permanent slides for significant species and determined 16 species using morphology and morphometrics, some of which could be new reports or new species and will be confirmed using molecular tools. In the following parts of the project, the plan will focus on preparing a manuscript for publication based on the results we have obtained. Additionally, we will continue to work on identifying and characterizing other nematode species that were

not identified using morphology and morphometrics, using molecular tools.

DR MAGDALENA LENNY SITUMORANG, INDONESIA

Application of closed hybrid Zero Water Discharge–Recirculating Aquaculture System technology along with synbiotic functional feed as alternative to antibiotics for disease biocontrol strategy in whiteleg shrimp (Litopenaeus vannamei) culture: An approach to reduce antimicrobial resistance towards sustainable shrimp industry through the One Health lens

The general objective of the ongoing research is to evaluate the application of the closed hybrid Zero Water Discharge–Recirculating Aquaculture System (ZWD-RAS) system and synbiotic-supplemented feed in shrimp farming, with the emphasis on reducing antibiotics usage for disease biocontrol. The hybrid ZWD-RAS system was installed and used for shrimp grow-out culture, with and without synbiotic feed. An open semi-batch system was used as a control group, with and without the use of synbiotic feed. Following 80 days of culture, significant differences in shrimp survival, growth and total productivity between groups were observed, with the highest performance obtained by the shrimp group cultured in the hybrid ZWDRAS system and fed with synbiotic feed. Based on a Two-way ANOVA, it is suggested that the hybrid ZWDRAS system significantly supported shrimp survival and feed utilization efficiency. In contrast, the synbiotic feed worked synergistically with the hybrid system in improving shrimp growth and final productivity. After the grow-out period, a bacterial challenge test was performed using AHPNDcausing Vibrio parahaemolyticus isolate. After incubation, a significantly higher survival was obtained in the shrimp group from the hybrid ZWD-RAS system and fed with synbiotic feed, compared with the control group cultured from an open system fed with commercial feed or even feed containing antibiotic (enrofloxacin) during the challenge test. A Two-way ANOVA indicated that the hybrid ZWD-RAS system significantly improved shrimp

survival post Vibrio challenge, without interaction effect with synbiotic feed. As a final step of the study, shrimp samples have been collected for further metagenomic analysis to provide knowledge of the roles of the hybrid ZWD-RAS system and synbiotic technology in improving shrimp growth and survival in healthy and diseased conditions. Sample preparation is being performed and analysis results are expected by August 2023. It is hoped that the developed hybrid ZWD-RAS system and synbiotic technology can be optimally implemented as sustainable solutions to reduce antibiotic usage and increase system resilience in the shrimp industry.

DR NGUYEN THI TAM THU, VIETNAM

Production and characterization of polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) by halophilic microorganisms isolated from Truong Sa island in Vietnam

The project aims to isolate and screen halophilic bacteria that produce PHA from Truong Sa Sea in Vietnam and evaluate obtained PHA properties. As planned in the project timeline, we collected soil, sand and water samples from Truong Sa and isolated halophilic microorganisms capable of forming PHA. We also assessed the quality and quantity of developed PHA from the halophilic bacteria strains. So far, four soil samples, two water samples, and three livestock waste samples from Truong Sa Sea have been collected. We also found 15 halophilic microorganisms that can biosynthesize PHA, including 12 strains of bacteria, from which three yeast strains were isolated and selected. FTIR spectra of some PHA samples produced by the bacteria were analysed. PHA has been extracted from these halophilic bacteria. PHA content ranges from 11.76 to 40.44% compared with DCW (dry cell weight). In the project’s next phase, we plan to identify the genus of some strains that can produce high PHA content and evaluate some factors that affect the PHA production ability of these strains.

DR QUOC AN TRIEU, VIETNAM

Recovery of phosphate from eutrophic water bodies by nano-biocomposite adsorbents: Application as smart fertilizers

Based on the objectives introduced in the project proposal, synthesis and characterization of nano-ZrO2 incorporated biosorbents and the investigation into the adsorption characteristics of as-designed nanocomposite biosorbents have been carried out. Spent coffee grounds (SCG) as food waste have been impregnated with hydrated nano-ZrO2 and characterised using methods such as FTIR, BET, TGA, SEM-EDS, and XRD. Compared to pristine SCG and commercial nano-ZrO2, the modified nano-biocomposite adsorbent has shown more efficient adsorption performance. The research plan has been implemented effectively thanks to equipment funded by the IFS-SEARCA Advanced Grant such as pH meter and vacuum filtration system. The project will continue to complete the database of the adsorption characteristics of nano-ZrO2 embedded SCG and conduct experiments on the preliminary application of P-loaded modified SCG as an innovative fertilizer.

IFS staff member Nathalie Persson visiting SEARCA; from left, Ms Donna Bae N Malayang, Program Associate; Assoc Prof Joselito G Florendo, Deputy Director for Administration; Nathalie Persson; and Dr Glenn Gregorio, SEARCA Director.

CAPACITYENHANCING SUPPORT

IFS supports promising early-career scientists through a flexible but structured process, centred around securing funding to conduct research in the researchers’ home countries, complemented by the provision of capacity-enhancing activities, coordinated by the IFS Secretariat, and in collaboration with strategic partners.

Developing national cadres of research scientists in the Global South helps identify and address pressing societal problems and build shared values, including an appreciation of science and its role in society. Scientists acquire skills by conducting research in an enabling environment that includes access to resources and mentorship, both of which are in short supply in the Global South. As scientists gain experience in planning, conducting and publishing their research over time, they establish a reputation in their field. This helps improve their abilities to identify and prioritise research, collaborate with others, develop and lead successful research groups, and influence policy. Scientists who acquire such skills also help empower the institutions in which they work and build science literacy in their home countries.

Dr Mercy Badu’s research group preparing the seeds for analysis in the lab. From left to right: Ms Gilsonda Attuquaye, BSc Chemistry; Ms Salamatu Bashiru, final year undergraduate Chemistry student; Mr Philip Teye Thompson, MPhil Organic and Natural Products Chemistry; Ms Kausor Osman, third-year undergraduate student on internship training, and Dr Mercy Badu, IFS grantee and Principal Investigator.

Building Research Capacity with Partners

In 2022, IFS was jointly engaged in eleven events or workshops with various strategic partners or alumni associations across a spectrum of topics, most in response to requests from grantees and partners. The development of IFS’s virtual meeting tools that started in 2020 also continued throughout 2021 and 2022. The overall objectives of these workshops were to:

> Strengthen early-career researchers’ scientific skills to develop a scientific proposal, publish in scientific journals, and communicate their results to the public at large (including scientists, politicians and policy makers, donors and private interest groups)

> Enhance capacity to conduct original research that relates to genuine problems and that generates fundamental and/or applicable scientific knowledge that can be put into use

> Contribute to science literacy

> Influence science priority setting

> Network and collaborate with the global research community to shape local and global research agendas, and

> Position participants in international research, to carry out regional projects or to develop their networks.

The workshops conducted in 2022 included (descriptions below):

> IFS 50th Anniversary Grantee Event

> Workshop on Pitching Contest

> INASP MOOC Course on Research Writing in the Sciences

> Statistical Computing with R, e-learning Training Course

> IFS 1000 STEM Women Workshop

> New IPM: A Modern and Multidisciplinary Approach to Crop Protection – International Symposium and Networking Event

> Writing a Winning Manuscript

> IFS 2022 Welcome Ceremony: Gender Equality in Research

> Webinar on World Food Day

> Support Workshop for Women IFS Applicants

> COP27

IFS 50th Anniversary Grantee Event (March 2022)

IFS celebrated its 50th anniversary with IFS grantees in an online event held on 24 March 2022 with 171 participants. The event included presentations from IFS staff discussing the history and legacy of IFS, how IFS can adapt to the future of scientific research, and the upcoming activities planned for 2022, the 50th anniversary year. IFS alumni Dr Babita Paudel and Dr David Chiawo gave presentations on the theme for the event, decolonising science, with participants contributing to a discussion at the end.

Workshop on Pitching Contest (April 2022)

IFS continued working with ILRI CapDev Grand Challenge, a ten-month process to grow transformational next-generation livestock-sector professionals by equipping them with the people and leadership skills necessary to contribute to new research and development outcomes. As one of four phases in the CapDev Challenge process, the pitching contest is designed to build capacity around effective science communication and create momentum and excitement among the researchers as they take on soft skills training. In April 2022, 30 graduate students and research fellows from National Agricultural Research Systems (NARS) in countries where ILRI works gathered virtually for ILRI’s CapDev Grand Challenge research pitching contest. IFS grantees were among the contestants. Out of the 30 contestants from various countries in Africa and Asia, 11 were women. Each contestant was given three minutes to present an overview of their research project, after which a panel of seven judges had five minutes to ask the contestants questions about their research. The contest’s diversity extended to the topics the contestants covered, ranging from food quality risks in Ethiopia to methane emissions from livestock in subSaharan Africa to new vaccines for East Coast Fever. After each presentation, the judges asked contestants questions about the sustainability of their research and how it could be used to influence policy, thereby encouraging them to consider how their research could be improved to maximise its impact. In the week leading up to the ceremony, a panel of seven judges led by a chief judge reviewed the research pitches from all 30 contestants before eventually deciding on the winners. Key review criteria included the research problem and its importance, impact pathways, sustainability of the research and audience engagement. The contest winners were announced at the award ceremony on 19 April. The first award was given to Sarah Nyanchera Nyakeri, an MSc graduate fellow at ILRI, who was declared the overall winner of the ILRI category for her presentation titled ‘Identification of virulence factors as novel vaccine targets for bovine pleuropneumonia by Whole Genome Saturated Mutagenesis’. In addition to Sarah, there were five other first-place winners of different categories. In the partners category, the judges awarded Waseyehon Assen Abate, an IFS grantee, first place for his presentation ‘Exploring the potential of locally grown Amaranthus caudatus grain seed as poultry feed’.

INASP MOOC Course on Research Writing in the Sciences (April-May 2022)

Co-sponsored by IFS, the six-week online course was designed for early-career researchers in the Global South working in the natural sciences and other related fields. Fiftyfive participants signed up for the IFS cohort on the course including two participants from IFS partner organisation

IRD. These participants had access to a collegiate forum and a classroom space with supplementary learning materials. The bespoke support included an introductory onboarding webinar and another on improving academic writing skills, as well as access to learning resources on Academic Writing Skills and Proposal Writing with Impact. The course covered a range of subjects including accessing publications, developing research questions, ethics, avoiding plagiarism, assessing the legitimacy of journals, identifying a suitable target journal for a paper, writing different sections of a paper, using citations and references, submitting a paper, and responding to peer reviewers’ comments. Participants reported an increase in confidence across all course subjects.

Statistical Computing with R, e-learning Training Course (June 2022)

Prof Eugenio Parente, an IFS SAC member, offered to conduct a pro bono virtual training in statistical computing using R, given the importance of statistics and statistical computing for young scientists and the mission of IFS to support early-career researchers from the Global South. The course was conducted using an e-learning platform (Moodle) and the University of Basilicata’s Google drive e-learning facility, freely provided to IFS. In addition to this, staff members of the university supported the running of this course. Fifty-three IFS grantees expressed interest in attending the course, whose objective was to introduce the use of R language and environment for graphical and statistical analysis in biology, biotechnology, medicine, food science and nutrition.

IFS 1000 STEM Women Workshop (August 2022)

The two-day IFS 1000 STEM Women Workshop was the second of its kind which was organised with IFS partner Dr Ramesh Laungani, the founder of the 1000 STEM Women Project, a global video library created by women working in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths (STEM). Twenty-two participants registered for the workshop, which explored ways scientists can better engage with non-scientific audiences by considering their context and being intentional with their language choice. Participants practised recording videos of themselves communicating their science on Flip – an asynchronous video discussion tool. Final videos were uploaded to the 1000 STEM Women Project. They are publicly available and used by schools globally to promote a diversity of role models in science, thereby increasing representation, challenging negative stereotypes, and minimising barriers in STEM. Participants praised the workshop, appreciating the openness and helpfulness of the facilitators. The confidence levels of participants in describing their research to nonscientific audiences, avoiding the use of technical language, and filming short videos increased after the workshop.

New IPM: A Modern and Multidisciplinary Approach to

Crop Protection – International Symposium and Networking Event, Swansea University, Wales (September 2022)

Together with Swansea University’s Research and Innovation Services, IFS organised this international symposium which

brought together people and organisations involved in the agribusiness chain, to present and discuss innovations and how they are being implemented in crop protection. The unique event brought together industrialists and leading researchers to share approaches and experiences in this strategic domain. Following the symposium there, was a Collaborative R&D Funding Support Networking Day which offered opportunities for Welsh industry and academia to network with international partners, with a focus on funding opportunities from UK and EU sources, in particular Horizon Europe Cluster 6 and related calls around plant health, resilient infrastructure and low-risk pesticides. IFS established various relationships with potential industry research partners to collaborate on studentship and internship initiatives involving research themes, academic and industry locations and co-supervision, training and work experience, projects of various durations, and cost-sharing arrangements.

Writing a Winning Manuscript (September 2022)

The workshop was held at Strathmore Business School (SBS) in Nairobi, Kenya. There were 12 participants: seven doctoral fellows and five master’s students from various institutions and specialisations. The first part of the training focused on preparing manuscripts for successful publishing in international journals. They got insights on choosing the right journal for manuscript submission. They were instructed to always be ahead of reviewers regarding replicable methodology, precise and adequate results, acceptable and simple language, and the precise alignment to journal stipulations based on the Guide for Authors. The main facilitator of this session was Dr David Chiawo who was assisted by IFS alumni Dr Beth Ndunda, Dr Ruth Odhiambo and Dr Raphael Kweyu. The Mendeley partner, Dr Vera Otiende, conducted the second half of the workshop. The participants learned effective reference management, citation and generating a bibliography using Mendeley Reference Manager. With the aid of Dr Otiende, they worked on and improved their manuscripts using the software. They were able to automate their citations and generate their end-of-text citations. They also learned about using the reference manager as a review tool.

IFS 2022 Welcome Ceremony: Gender Equality in Research (October 2022)

An online welcome ceremony was held to celebrate the academic achievement of those who obtained IFS grants in 2022. Grantees were welcomed and introduced to the IFS Secretariat staff who provided more information on the programme. IFS alumni Dr Babita Paudel and Dr David Chiawo presented the many initiatives done by IFS alumni groups all over the globe. The event included a presentation on gender equality in research, exploring gender issues such as implicit biases and other barriers that women in science face. Participants were invited to an interactive discussion to share their reflections on gender equality in their context and discuss actions that could be taken towards it. The event ended with a networking opportunity for grantees. Participants were pleased to have received more information on the programme, to have

met the IFS staff and they appreciated the participatory nature of the event. The theme of gender equality in research was enjoyed by both women and men, with participants reporting an increase in their awareness of gender issues in research, gender bias, and actions that could be taken towards creating inclusive research cultures.

Webinar on World Food Day (October 2022)

IFS and COMSTECH joined with leading research, academic and farming organisations from Pakistan and worldwide to host World Food Day celebrations. Partners included UPSIGN, an educational charity based in the UK supporting collaborations between the UK and Pakistan; SAWIE, a digital platform based in the UK and Pakistan offering farm advice and data insights; and International Centre for Climate Change, Food Security & Sustainability (ICCFS)/Consortium on Climate Change, Sustainability & Conservation (CCSC), Islamia University Bahawalpur. Many keynote talks and panel discussions with experts working in agri-food research systems were held. The webinar discussed the key challenges faced by our food system, from climate change to other threats. The debate uncovered how sustainable use of natural resources could help enhance productivity, soil health, water, and biodiversity.

Support Workshop for Women IFS Applicants (November 2022)

As part of its gender strategy, IFS provides additional support for women applicants and grantees to minimise the barriers women may encounter in accessing support and resources. For the 2023 call, IFS offers personalised support for women invited to apply. In October 2022, 241 women applicants were invited to join an online chat forum on the IFS Community. The chat forum included facilitators who answer questions, and discuss and share learning resources or contacts that applicants might find helpful throughout the application period. Facilitators included selected IFS staff, and four external experts: Dr Beth Ndunda, Dr Ruth Odhiambo, and Dr Valère Kolawolé Salako (all IFS alumni) and Dr Rebecca Boulton. A needs-based assessment was sent to the women applicants to determine which sections of the application they found the most difficult. Priority topics identified from this survey were designed for the Support Workshop in November 2022. In this workshop, facilitators presented a talk on a priority topic and held a Q&A session allowing participants to get more information on aspects of the application they may struggle with.

COP27 (November 2022)

The Climate Leadership Conversation at COP27 in Egypt was intended to initiate a dialogue with African leaders on practical approaches to promote the capacity of their countries to deal with climate change. It was designed to create the needed attention on capacity building for policy-makers and implementers on climate change to build the much-needed critical number in Africa to motivate and activate climate action. COP27 presented an exclusive opportunity to form partnerships between IFS, Africa-based institutions and likeminded international institutions to set a joint framework in

climate change research and training to unlock the potential of Africa to deal with climate change. The climate leadership dialogue at COP27 created awareness of the 50 years of the impact of IFS and set the pace for scaling the dynamics of the new phase of focus for IFS in Africa.

Gender Equality in Capacity Enhancement

IFS grants and capacity-enhancing activities provide valuable support during a critical time in the career of women scientists. IFS employs gender mainstreaming throughout the programme, implementing several actions in line with the IFS Gender Strategy 2021–2030.

IFS implemented a number of initiatives, interventions, and operational changes in 2022, including:

> Changes to our application form so all applicants can confidentially declare special circumstances that have affected their track record to ensure a fairer evaluation process

> Building the online IFS Women in Science Community

> Publicising the IFS Women in Science Public Contact List on social media and the IFS website

> Supporting IFS women grantees in starting their initiatives, such as a virtual English café to practice using the language

> Running a workshop on gender equality in science for both men and women grantees that started in 2022

> Delivering the second IFS 1000 STEM Women Workshop with our partner, Dr Ramesh Laungani, that focuses on effective science communication and contributes to increasing the visibility of women scientists globally

> Ensuring gender balance in our grantee selections for external communication, and

> Conducting a needs-based assessment survey to inform the design of the 2023 support workshop for women applicants

Mentorship

Cutting across all of IFS’s capacity-enhancing support is a learning approach which includes mentoring. In 2022, IFS staff and external specialists mentored the grantees carrying out ongoing research projects. We also supported our alumni to associate with and support other potential grantees through training and coaching. As they conduct their research, grantees inform IFS about the support they need, which may include:

> Technical concerns related to the specific project topic or research problem

> Research design

> Research methods and techniques

> Data collection and analysis

> Research findings and conclusions

> Research project administration and/or budget management

> Research report, journal article and/or policy brief writing and language

> Communicating research results

> Intellectual ownership / property rights

> Team and/or administration relations

> Conversations with funders, and

> Other or future funding opportunities.

IFS Alumni Network R

ecognising the importance of its alumni network, IFS provides support for individual alumni, associations of alumni which have been founded in several countries in Africa, and informal initiatives launched by alumni in Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. Our past grantees represent a source of mentoring, networking and collaboration in their respective countries, offering a range of services that benefit members, aspiring researchers, grant applicants and IFS. Examples include support for new applicants, advice to prospective grantees through seminars and talks, publicising IFS grant calls, collaborating with other alumni associations, and informing IFS of relevant local and national activities. IFS always tries to find ways to mobilise our existing resources to activate, support and strengthen our alumni.

Benin

In 2022, the IFS alumni association of Benin organised virtual and physical workshops on plagiarism and fraud in science, ethics in science, and steps and useful methods for proposal and scientific writing. More than 200 young scientists from NGOs, universities and research centres attended these events.

Nigeria

Prof Igoli, Chair of the Nigerian IFS Alumni Association and now a pioneer Vice Chancellor of Pen Resource University, Gombe, successfully mobilised his team to commence academic activities on 5 September 2022 with over 250 students (a record number for a private university in Nigeria starting from scratch). As part of their commencement activities, he spoke about research, research collaboration and publications at a staff orientation programme, and introduced his staff members about IFS. He further encouraged his academic staff members to visit the IFS website and apply for IFS grants, thus making himself a mentor to all his staff in science and related fields relevant to IFS programmes.

In addition, Nigerian IFS Alumni Association members organised and participated in virtual workshops on topics in aquaculture, aquatic pollution, biodiversity, conservation biology, and microbiology. They also mentored fellow alumni, and participated in virtual interactions concerning IFS’s 50th anniversary, and a proposal to be submitted to a potential IFS donor.

The IFS Nigeria Alumni Association (IFS-NAA) reported these individual and group activities in 2022:

> Interactions between alumni members through Facebook and WhatsApp pages, including about webinars and other opportunities.

> Attendance at virtual workshops and meetings.

> Mentoring alumni members.

> Participation in the writing and compiling of the January 2022 report of the IFS 2.0 side event during the RUFORUM Triennial meeting in Benin.

> Participation in the virtual meeting of IFS with alumni tagged “IFS 50th Anniversary Grantee Event” on 24 March 2022.

> Participation of alumni in surveys to present alumni experiences and views of IFS in March 2022.

> Correspondence with IFS on the preparation and submission of IFS proposal on Youth Wellness to BOTNAR Foundation, from March–May 2022.

> Dr Adedotun Onoyinka Afolayan (IFS Nigeria Alumni Association Secretary) participated virtually in a panel discussion during the IFS’s 50th Anniversary Celebratory Forum.

> Request for ReachSci training for IFS-NAA members through Prof Mohammed Alawami, which is to help young researchers develop their skills to increase the impact of their research at local and global levels.

> IFS-NAA Executive Members had a virtual meeting with Prof Alawami to discuss a training programme for IFS-NAA members. Members designed and filled out a questionnaire to collate specific training needs.

> Virtual participation as IFS alumni network members in the IFS event to welcome a new cohort of grantees on 5 October 2022.

> Celebration of IFS Nigeria alumni member who defended her PhD, Dr Onibokun Adeola Elizabeth.

> Celebration of the President, Prof John Igoli, on the assumption of a new position, as the pioneer Vice Chancellor of Pen Resource University, Gombe.

From left, IFS alumni Dr María Eugenia Flores-Giubi (Paraguay), Dr Kathelyn Paredes Villanueva (Bolivia) and Dr Babita Paudel (Nepal) at the IFS 50th Anniversary Forum on a panel chaired by Prof Suneetha Kadiyala, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Impact of IFS on My Life – Professor Eléonore Chikani Yayi-Ladekan

In 1993, I completed my Maîtrise in chemistry (equivalent to a Bachelor’s degree at that time) at the University of the Republic of Benin. Apart from teaching physics and chemistry at secondary schools, no other professional option was offered. However, I was among the lucky first batch of students who were able to start a postgraduate and doctoral programme in organic chemistry (option in material chemistry) at the University of Benin. In 1994, thanks to one of the promoters of the postgraduate programme, the late Professor Olatundji, our university started courses for the Diplôme d’Études approfondies (DEA, or Diploma of Advanced Studies).

The team leader of my host laboratory had just started a collaborative programme among a number of countries. In West Africa it included my country, the Republic of Benin, as well as Togo and Ghana. The project targeted aromatic plants. I was one of the postgraduate students included from Benin. I carried out research on three plants: Ocimum gratissimum, Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum canum. The main objective of my DEA research project was to compare the chemical composition of these plants. I prepared a few samples in Benin from different parts of these plants from which I extracted the essential oils. The collaborative programme awarded a grant to cover my travel and stay costs at our university partners in France, the Blaise Pascal University in Clermont Ferrand, and University of Science and Techniques of LanguedocMontpellier 2. Thanks to the grant, I was able to take the samples to France to conduct the chemistry analyses at our partners’ laboratories, as they were better equipped for these specific needs.

My Second Lucky Break – Inspiration from IFS Grantees

While I was a DEA programme student, I came across a few IFS grantees at the Faculty of Agriculture Sciences of the university. From them I learned about IFS and how it supported their research projects. I specifically found interesting their research at the Laboratory of Applied Ecology at the Campus of Champ de Foire in Cotonou. These contacts appeared to be my second luck. I was inspired by them to continue engaging in scientific research, and became motivated

to compete for an IFS grant to continue research for a PhD programme.

With the support and advice from some of these IFS grantees, I planned to start research to increase our scientific knowledge of these three aromatic plants. I was interested to investigate the impact of the different sites of production (in northern, central and southern parts of Benin) and of the different vegetative phases of the plants on the composition and quality of the essential oils of Ocimum species.

My Experience with IFS Grants

I applied successfully for an IFS research grant in 1996 for the project entitled Impact of ecological and physiological data on the chemical composition of three species of the genus Ocimum from Benin. The grant amounted to USD 9500. I decided to have some of the funds administered by IFS. Thanks to IFS’s purchasing support, my laboratory could smoothly acquire the necessary equipment as requested in my application. The remaining funds were transferred to my institution to facilitate travel for sample collection.

As a result of IFS support, I was able to successfully conduct my research project, and in 1998 I completed my PhD and graduated, becoming the first Beninese woman PhD holder in Chemistry. This was a stimulating factor for me to continue further in scientific research and a career in higher education. In 1999 I won the Prize of the Belgian Secretary of State for Cooperation after submission of my research work and results. In 2004, I applied successfully for a second IFS research grant for my research project on the Ocimum genus in Benin. The objectives were to investigate the biological properties of essential oils during plant development. I managed to successfully achieve the scientific objectives and publish in high-impact journals. But the experience gained from the IFS grants also encouraged me to build a team. I also contributed to strengthening the capacities of my university since trainees and postgraduate students at our laboratory could use the equipment that was bought with my two IFS grants. In addition, I could supervise students at the postgraduate level, encourage and support them to apply for research grants, not

Small amounts but effective impacts – a testimony to the importance of an IFS grant

only to IFS but also to other research funding agencies. This was to help them understand that it is a part of a scientist’s life to raise funds for their research. You may not succeed at first, but this should not discourage you from continuing to try.

IFS has also been a good catalyst for my networking. Through the Beninese IFS Alumni Association (ABIFS), founded in early 2000, IFS grantees are able to network, learn who is doing what and where, exchange research ideas, get advice on how to write winning scientific proposals, and discuss scientific issues of common interest. I joined the alumni association and in 2005-2006, I was elected its general secretary under the presidency of the food scientist Professor Joseph Hounhouigan.

Thanks to travel grants, IFS opened further doors to me to be exposed to a regional or international scientific arena, and to present my research findings orally or on posters at conferences. I was able to participate in meetings in Abuja, Nigeria; Yaounde, Cameroon; and Nairobi, Kenya. This exposure made me known to other scientists working on the same research topics and opened avenues for potential collaboration. With an IFS travel grant, I could stay as a postdoc during my second grant period at a laboratory in France to carry out analyses using advanced methods. It is important to emphasise as well that when I published, it increased not only my scientific visibility among peers but also that of my laboratory and institution of affiliation.

Apart from the findings of my research, a lesson learnt from the experience that I went through is the attention to be paid to traditional healers and to traditional knowledge. Indeed, during my travel to the production sites to collect my samples, I learnt from them that it is not advisable to collect the plants for therapeutic uses after dark. Indeed, my research showed that the biological properties of Ocimum gratissimum decreased after sunset.

Trying to identify the impacts of IFS grants and support on my development as a scientist, I would highlight the following points:

> After my Maîtrise, there was another career opening up beyond teaching in secondary schools.

> I could believe in my capability to carry out research and grow as a scientist.

> I could contribute to the facilities development of my laboratory with the equipment bought with the IFS grant.

> My scientific publications increased my university’s scientific visibility and credibility.

> I gained more understanding of traditional knowledge that could be interpreted and linked with scientific research.

> My scientific network, at national, regional and international levels, has been strengthened.

> In return for encouragement from IFS, from the network of IFS grantees, from my postgraduate and PhD supervisors in Benin

Professor Eléonore Chikani Yayi-Ladekan.

and in France, I believe in the value of team work and of sharing with younger students my experience and knowledge.

In summary, the success of my work to date is the result of teamwork and collaboration within national and international contexts, and this largely is thanks to the opportunities first opened up through the IFS grants.

Further Impacts of IFS on My Life – Beyond Pure Science

As my scientific visibility increased, I gained credibility among my university administrative authorities and national scientific bodies. For example:

> I was elected deputy head of the Chemistry Department in 2004.

> Two years later, while I conducted research and supervised postgraduate students, I was appointed technical adviser of a ministry for their projects and programmes for six years.

> The visibility and credibility went beyond national frontiers: from 2011 to date, I have served as the elected general secretary of the Société Ouest Africaine de ChimieSOACHIM (West African Chemical Society) for the Benin section.

> In 2012, I was nominated director of the university student welfare agency (Centre des Oeuvres Universitaires et Sociales) which allowed me to come in closer contact with my faculty department.

> In 2015 I was appointed Minister for Pre-school and Primary Education, based in Porto Novo City.

> From 2017-2019, I was vice-rector in charge of cooperation and professional integration.

> During this period, I was the country coordinator for an important Belgian institutional support project. This enabled me to be again in close working contact with my first laboratory and team.

Despite my administrative responsibilities, as my first IFS grant time convinced me of my genuine interest in generating knowledge, I keep in contact and work closely with academia. I continue giving lectures for the Bachelor’s programme in organic chemistry, on chromatographic and spectroscopic methods for analysing natural products, as well from time to time on environmental chemistry.

This is the expression of my passion to share my experience with the young generation, to contribute to the strengthening of their scientific skills, and to inspire them to develop an interest in scientific research. I have supervised six PhD thesis from 2014-2021, five postgraduate students from 2010-2015 and three students in the CAPES (diploma for secondary school teaching). In addition:

> I am the first woman professor in chemistry in Benin.

> From 2019 to date, I am Minister for Higher Education and Scientific Research in the Republic of Benin.

> I am a member of the Ministers Council of CAMES (African and Malagasy Council for Higher Education in French Speaking Countries of Africa) for the past three years. Together with my CAMES counterparts, I contribute

to encouraging and promoting young women scientists through coaching activities for their personal development, scientific growth, and promotion.

Closing Words – Women Can Do! Women Can Be Science Leaders!

For me, IFS support was a key factor that enabled me to develop my scientific skills and professional visibility, and my social skills in working with different actors involved in the problems addressed in my research projects. My research experience helped me to understand the importance of teamwork, of being a good listener, and of being an inspiring leader for your team members.

With humility I can say that I proved that women can be good scientists. I have inspired many young early-career women in science. This has led to many requests from young people for me to support and mentor their activities as their “beloved mother”. Without IFS support, for sure I would have not been able to start and grow in my scientific career and professional life. I am grateful for their support and trust when they identified me as a promising and talented young scientist. However, I would also like to acknowledge the support and encouragement of my supervisors, of IFS grantees in Benin who shared with me their experience, who gave advice and inspired me to choose my research topics, and who encouraged me to compete for IFS research grants. There are many of them and I cannot name all due to page limitation, but I wish to acknowledge at least the following scientists: Professor Georges Accrombessi, Professor Mansourou Moudachirou and all our laboratory and department team members; Professor Jean Claude Chalchat in Clermont Ferrand and the late Professor Gérard Lamaty in Montpellier who supervised me during my stays at their respective laboratories. I also express my gratitude to the following IFS alumni: Professor Brice Sinsin, Professor Adam Ahanchede and Professor Joseph Hounhouigan. I also acknowledge the commitment of my assistants at the ministry who were involved in the logistical preparations for my interview for this essay on the impact of IFS on my life.

The support of IFS through donors, strategic partners and individuals

We are deeply thankful for the support of the long-time donors, strategic partners and individuals who have continued their relationships with IFS as we implement and revise our IFS Strategy 2021–2030, Investing inFutureScientists.Partners like these six organisations – and many others over the years – are why we can continuously support early-career researchers in the Global South. We truly cannot thank them enough.

COMSTECH, the Ministerial Standing Committee on Scientific and Technological Cooperation of the OIC (Organization of Islamic Cooperation)

IRD, the Research Institute for Development

OPCW, the Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons

SEARCA, the Southeast Asian Regional Center for Graduate Study and Research in Agriculture

Sida, the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency

SNSF, the Swiss National Science Foundation

Dr Ophelia Soliku conducting focus group discussions with women in the village of Kananto, one of the communities surrounding the Mole National Park, Ghana.

PEOPLE, FINANCES, AFFILIATES AND GRANTS

IFS STAFF IFS BOARD OF TRUSTEES

Dr Patrick Van Damme (Chair), Professor, Faculty of BioScience Engineering, University of Ghent, Belgium

Dr Mónica Moraes R (Vice-Chair), Professor, Institute of Ecology –Unidad de Botánica (Herbario National de Bolivia – LPB), Carrera de Biología, Universidad Mayor of San Andrés, La Paz, Bolivia

Dr Thammarat Koottatep (Vice-Chair), Associate Professor , School of Environment, Resources and Development, Asian Institute of Technology, Pathumthani, Thailand

Dr Malcolm Beveridge, Inveruel, Colintraive, Argyll & Bute, UK

Dr Assogbadjo Achille Ephrem, Professor, Faculty of Agronomic Sciences, University of Abomey-Calavi, Cotonou, Benin

Dr Nighisty Ghezae (ex-officio), IFS Director

Dr Kjell Havnevik, Professor, Department of Global Development and Planning, University of Agder, Kristiansand, Norway

Dr Anders Malmer, International Coordinator /Adjunct Professor (SLU Tropical Forestry), Swedish Forest Agency, Jönköping, Sweden

Ms Elisabeth Schenker, Scientific Officer International Co-operation, Swiss National Science Foundation, Berne, Switzerland

Dr Bishnu Raj Upreti, Executive Director, Nepal Center for Contemporary Research, Kathmandu, Nepal

Mr Ulf Edin, Head of Administration

Ms Annika Eriksson, Programme Administrator, Animal Production and Aquatic Resources and Water Resources

Dr Nighisty Ghezae, Director

Dr Ingrid Leemans, Scientific Programme Coordinator, Animal Production, Aquatic Resources and Water Resources

Ms Ingrid Lindhe, Programme Administrator, Crop Science and Forestry/ Agroforestry

Mr Elvis Bahati Orlendo, Web Editor, Social Media and Information Manager

Ms Nathalie Persson Andrianasitera, Scientific Programme Coordinator, Food Science, Natural Products and Social Sciences

Ms Sirilak Pongpatipat, Accounting Administrator

Dr Jennifer Sjölund, Scientific Programme Coordinator Crop Science and Forestry/Agroforestry

Ms Jill Wallin, Office Manager, Purchasing Manager and Adminstrator

STATEMENT OF INCOME AND EXPENSE (in thousands SEK)

BALANCE SHEET (in thousands SEK)

AFFILIATED ORGANISATIONS

NATIONAL ORGANISATIONS

ARGENTINA

Academia Nacional de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (ANCEFN)

Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET)

AUSTRALIA

Australian Academy of Science (AAS)

AUSTRIA

Fonds zur Förderung der Wissenschaftlichen Forschung (FWF)

Österreichische Akademie der Wissenschaften (ÖAW)

BANGLADESH

Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR)

BELGIUM

Académie Royale des Sciences d’Outre Mer (ARSOM)

Académie Royale des Sciences des Lettres et des Beaux Arts de Belgique Koninklijke Academie voor Wetenschappen, Letteren en Schone Kunsten van België (KVAB)

BOLIVIA

Academia Nacional de Ciencias de Bolivia (ANCB)

BRAZIL

Academia Brasileira de Ciencias (ABC) Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico (CNPQ) Fundaçao Oswaldo Cruz (FIOCRUZ)

BURKINA FASO

Ministère des Enseignements Secondaire, Supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique (MESSER)

CAMEROON

Ministry of Scientific and Technical Research

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

l’Enseignement Supérieur et de la Recherche Scientifique

CHAD

Direction de la Recherche Scientifique et Technique, MESRS

CHILE

Academia Chilena de Ciencias

Comisión Nacional de Investigación Científica y Tecnológica (CONICYT)

CHINA

Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS)

COLOMBIA

Academia Colombiana de Ciencias Exactas, Físicas y Naturales (ACCEFYN)

Centro para la Investigación en Sistemas Sostenibles de Producción Agropecuaria (CIPAV)

Instituto Colombiano para el Desarrollo de la Ciencia y Tecnología (COLCIENCIAS)

CONGO (BRAZZAVILLE)

Direction Générale de la Recherche Scientifique et Technique, MENRST

COSTA RICA

Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas (CONICIT)

CÔTE D’IVOIRE

Académie des Sciences, des Arts, des Cultures d´Afrique et des Diaporas Africaines

CUBA

Academia de Ciencias de Cuba (ACC) Ministry for Foreign Investment and Economic Cooperation

DENMARK

Akademiet for de Tekniske Videnskaber (ATV) Det Kongelige Danske Videnskabernes Selskab (RDVS)

ECUADOR

Fundación para la Ciencia y la Tecnología (FUNDACYT)

EGYPT Academy of Scientific Research and Technology (ASRT)

EL SALVADOR

Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT)

ETHIOPIA

Ethiopian Science and Technology Commission (ESTC)

FINLAND

Delegation of the Finnish Academies of Science and Letters

FRANCE

Académie des Sciences

Centre de Coopération Internationale en Recherche Agronomique pour le Développement (CIRAD)

Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique (INRA)

Institut de Recherche pour le Développement (IRD)

GERMANY

Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG)

GHANA

Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

GUINEA

Direction Nationale de la Recherche Scientifique et Technique

GUINEA BISSAU

Instituto Nacional de Estudos e Pesquisa (INEP)

GUYANA

Institute of Applied Science and Technology

HONDURAS

Consejo Hondureño de Ciencia y Tecnología (COHCIT)

INDIA

Indian National Science Academy (INSA)

INDONESIA

Lembaga Ilmu Pengetahuan Indonesia (LIPI)

ISRAEL

The Israel Academy of Sciences and Humanities

JAMAICA

Scientific Research Council (SRC)

JORDAN

Royal Scientific Society (RSS)

KENYA

Kenya Agricultural Research Institute (KARI)

Kenya National Academy of Sciences (KNAS)

KOREA DPR (NORTH)

Academy of Sciences of DPR Korea

KOREA R (SOUTH)

National Academy of Sciences (NAS)

KUWAIT

Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research (KISR)

LATVIA

Latvian Academy of Sciences (LAS)

LESOTHO

The National University of Lesotho (NUL)

LIBERIA

University of Liberia (UL)

MADAGASCAR

Académie National Malgache

MALAWI

National Research Council of Malawi (NRCM)

MALAYSIA

Malaysian Scientific Association (MSA)

Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation

MALI

Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique et Technologique (CNRST)

Comité National de la Recherche Agricole (CNRA)

MEXICO

Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT)

MONGOLIA

Mongolian Academy of Sciences

MOROCCO

Centre National de Coordination et de Planification de la Recherche Scientifique et Technique (CNR)

Institut Agronomique et Vétérinaire Hassan II

MOZAMBIQUE

Universidade Eduardo Mondlane (UEM)

The Scientific Research Association of Mozambique (AICIMO)

NEPAL

Royal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology (RONAST)

NETHERLANDS

Koninklijke Nederlandse Akademie van Wetenschappen (KNAW)

NIGER

Université Abdou Moumouni

NIGERIA

Federal Ministry of Science and Technology (FMST)

The Nigerian Academy of Science (NAS)

NORWAY

Det Norske Videnskaps Akademi (DNVA)

PAKISTAN

Pakistan Council for Science and Technology (PCST)

PANAMA

Secretaria Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnologia e Innovación (SENACYT)

Universidad de Panamá

PAPUA NEW GUINEA

The University of Papua New Guinea

PERU

Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONCYTEC)

PHILIPPINES

National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP)

POLAND

Polish Academy of Sciences (PAS)

SAUDI ARABIA

King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)

SENEGAL

Délégation aux Affaires Scientifiques et Techniques, MRST

SEYCHELLES

Seychelles Bureau of Standards (SBS)

SIERRA LEONE

Institute of Agricultural Research (IAR)

SOUTH AFRICA

National Research Foundation (NRF)

SRI LANKA

National Science Foundation (NSF)

SUDAN

National Centre for Research (NCR)

SWEDEN

Ingenjörsvetenskapsakademien (IVA) Kungliga Skogs och Lantbruksakademien (KSLA)

Kungliga Vetenskapsakademien (KVA)

SWITZERLAND

Council of the Swiss Scientific Academies (CASS)

Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)

TANZANIA

Tanzania Commission for Science and Technology (COSTECH)

THAILAND

National Research Council of Thailand (NRC) Thailand Research Fund (TRF)

TUNISIA

Direction Générale de la Recherche Scientifique et Technique, MES

UGANDA

National Agricultural Research Organisation (NARO)

Uganda National Council for Science and Technology (UNCST)

UNITED KINGDOM

The Royal Society

Natural Resources Institute (NRI)

URUGUAY

Programa de Desarrollo de las Ciencias Basicas (PEDECIBA)

USA

American Academy of Arts and Sciences (AAAS)

National Academy of Sciences (NAS) New York Academy of Sciences (NYAS)

VENEZUELA

The Ministry of Popular Power for Science and Technology

VIET NAM

Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST)

ZAMBIA

National Institute for Scientific and Industrial Research (NISIR)

ZIMBABWE

Scientific and Industrial Research and Development Centre (SIRDC)

University of Zimbabwe

REGIONAL ORGANISATIONS

AFRICA

Association for Strengthening Agricultural Research in Eastern and Central Africa (ASARECA)

Association of African Universities (AAU) Centre Regional pour l’Eau Potable et l’Assainissement à faible coût (CREPA) Institut du Sahel (INSAH)

The African Academy of Sciences (AAS)

West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (WECARD/CORAF)

Western Indian Ocean Marine Science Association (WIOMSA)

LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN Centro Agronónomico Tropical de Investigación y Enseñanza (CATIE)

The Caribbean Academy of Sciences (CAS)

Caribbean Agricultural Research and Development Institute (CARDI)

INTERNATIONAL ORGANISATIONS

BioNET (The Global Network for Taxonomy)

International Organisation for Chemical Sciences in Development (IOCD)

International Union of Forest Research Organisations (IUFRO)

The Academy of Sciences for the Developing World (TWAS)

Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research (CGIAR): CGIAR Secretariat

Bioversity International Centro Internacional de Agricultura Tropical (CIAT)

Centre for International Forestry Research (CIFOR)

International Centre for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA)

International Centre for Research in Agroforestry (ICRAF)

International Water Management Institute (IWMI)

World Fish Center

BASIC GRANTS AWARDED IN 2022

BANGLADESH

BAQUY M. Abdulaha-Al

Evaluation of phosphorus availability, retention, and uptake by maize plants after incorporation of organic-coated biochar in low-fertility soils

BENIN

SOSSA Coffi Leonce Geoffroy

Water management and N-fertilizer levels to improve irrigated rice production while reducing GHG emissions in Benin

DAA-KPODE Ulysse Ayihaou

Genetic variability and biochemical profiles of coconut varieties grown in Benin

LIBANIO Daouda

Morpho-biometric and genetic characterization of the local population of domestic Moscovy duck (Cairina moschata) bred in South Benin

OUACHINOU Jéronime

Biosystematic and sustainable use of Pterocarpus santalinoides L’Hér. ex DC., (Fabaceae) in Benin

CHABI Ifagbémi Bienvenue

Improvement in physicochemical properties and shelf life of Afitin using tomato and crab processing by-product

MONTCHO Marthe

Drought tolerant tree-fodder and forage plants for dairy farming systems in semi-arid regions of Benin

HOUENON Gbèdomèdji Hurgues Aristide

Assessing the ethnobiology, population structure, fruit production and ability for the sexual propagation of Detarium spp in Benin, West Africa

ALIA Mahoussi Henorck Boris

Diversity, distribution and uses of bryophyes (mosses) in Benin (Sudano Guinean and Sudanian zones)

LAWIN Iboukoun Fidèle

Biochemical characterization of Cola millenii K. Schum fruit pulp in Benin

DOTCHAMOU Titilayo Oyélèyè Fafunkè

Influence of combined effects of climate and anthropogenic pressures on the spatial distribution of forest reserves in northern Benin, West Africa: Case of Wari-Maro and Oueme superieur forest reserves

BADOU Djigbo Félicien

Modelling land-use change impacts on small dams’ sedimentation in a context of climate

change: a case study of the Beninese Section of the Niger River Basin

SAMBIENI Kevin Sinomatohou

Impact of water reservoirs on the hydrological flow of the Sota catchment (Benin, West Africa) under climate and land use changes

OKE Vincent

The effects of extracts from moringa (Moringa oleifera Lam.) leaves on growth performance and health status in early life stage of Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus Linnaeus 1758) exposed to Aeromonas hydrophila (Chester, 1901) and ammonia stress

IDRISSOU Yaya

Integration of trees and/or shrubs in cattle farming in Benin as a strategy with adaptation and mitigation co-benefits to climate change

DANDJLESSA Judicaël

Valorization of chemical potential of Chromolaena odorata in agroecology

AKPLO Tobi Moriaque

Effect of maize cobs and cow manure derived biochars, mineral fertilizers and seeding density on soil erosion, maize production and the soil properties in Benin

ODOUNTAN Olaniran Hamed

Advancing species knowledge, distributions and monitoring solutions for decapods crustacean in Lake Aheme using environmental DNA (eDNA)

ABAHI Koudjode Simon

Impact of urban wastewater on benthic macroinvertebrates in the Ouémé basin in Bénin

AGBAHOUNGBA Symphorien

Participatory selection and promotion of improved cowpea (VignaunguiculataL.Walp) varieties tolerant to aphid, flower bud thrips, striga, drought and heat in Benin

OKOU Farris Aurlus Yissegnon

Assessment of future trend of land use and land cover patterns and local knowledge in land degradation for targeting land degradation neutrality in Atacora mountain (Republic of Benin, West Africa)

BOLIVIA, PLURINATIONAL STATE OF GUIZADA

Duran Luis

Understanding the Bolivian bufeo (Inia boliviensis) use of lentic habitats (lagoons) during an hydrological cycle in the middle basin of the Mamore River

BURKINA FASO

MARIAM Barro

Evaluation of agricultural practices and their impact on rice plant health and productivity in Burkina Faso

KOUKA Hamidou Sogoba

First etiological and epidemiological study of new fungus associated with onion basal rot in Burkina Faso : Fusarium falciforme

SABO Prospère

Improving the sustainable management of frankincense (Boswellia dalzielii Hutch.) by modeling resin production and determining reproduction potential in Burkina Faso (West Africa)

BAYEN Philippe

Towards sustainable conservation of Borassus aethiopum: a threatened multipurpose species in Burkina Faso

TINDANO Kisito

Impact of crossbreeding between local and exotic chickens on the productivity and the genetic resources management in peri-urban areas of Ouagadougou

OUÉDRAOGO Sambo

Identifying and mapping the good varieties of Balanitesaegyptiaca to contribute to its sustainable use in its distribution zones in Burkina Faso

BONDÉ Loyapin

Promoting sustainable use and domestication of Taccaleontopetaloides (L.) Kuntze, a droughtresistant wild food species to improve food security in Burkina Faso in climate change context

ZIDA Issaka

Vegetable crop-infesting fruit flies in Burkina Faso: extent of damage, main species responsible and control tests

MAHAMADI Nikiema

Agronomic enhancement of Anacardium Occidental cashew nut shell digestate from anaerobic digestion

AYORO Halamoussa Joëlle

Étude de la communauté d’amphibiens de la forêt classée du Kou au Burkina Faso

CAMEROON

MAGANG KEMTA Melaine Eugenie

Assessing of hidden skin-dwelling trypanosomes on the transmission of human and Animal African Trypanosomiases: Importance of one health concept

MEFFOWOET Prisca Chekam

Internal and external parasites of edible wild snails in Cameroon: potentials impact on public health

NTOUMBA Agnes

Bioinsecticides against Anopheles gambiae: plants and nanoparticles

HAROUNA Difo Voukang

Investigation of Some Unpopular and Underutilized Legumes Collected from Northern Cameroon as Efficient Feed Ingredient Alternative for Broilers

FOTANG Chefor

Plant diversity, ant availability and conservation status of wild Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee in Kom-Wum Forest Reserve, North West Region, Cameroon

NYEMB Jean Nöel

α-Amylase, α-glucosidase inhibition and antimicrobial activities of Vernonia perrottetii and Vernonia ambigua (Asteraceae) and identification of their active constituents

CENTRAL AFRICAN REPUBLIC

NGOAY-KOSSY Jean Clair

Planktonic diversity and physicochemical of crocodiles Lake (southwest of the Central African Republic)

ETHIOPIA

GEBRE Yohannes Gedamu

Genetic Diversity Analysis of Tef (Eragrostistef) with Molecular and Morphological Markers in Eastern Amhara Region, Ethiopia

MERGO Wakshuma

Designing Sustainable Plant Nutrient Delivery System from Nanocellulose-Zeolite-A Nanocomposite

ADMASSIE Ferehiwot Mequanint

Habitat fragmentation impact on indigenous tree species composition and structure in monasteries and churches forests: a case of Dek island and Zeghe peninsula, Ethiopia

ALEMAYEHU Yohannes

Threats and risk status of indigenous sheep breeds in Northwestern lowland parts of Ethiopia

MOGES Admasu

Ecological condition, Biodiversity and Development of Biota-Based Monitoring Tool for the Management of Tropical Natural Wetlands in Ethiopia

GASHAW Temesgen

Modelling climate change impacts and adaptation strategies for water resources and crop yield under different climate change scenarios: for the case of Lake Tana Sub-basin (Ethiopia)

ABIRATU Abera Assef

Impacts of Land Management Practices on selected Ecosystem Services under Changing Climate of Central Rift Valley, Ethiopia

TIKUYE Birhan Getachew

Modelling the impacts of changing land use and climate on sediment and nutrient retention in Lake Tana basin, Upper Blue Nile River Basin, Ethiopia

TELILA Habte

Diversity, carbon stock potential and Farmers’ Preferences of trees in Farmscape in Bale Mountains National Park Buffer Zones, Oromia, South Eastern Ethiopia

GUTA Moa Megersa

Treatment of surface and ground water samples using seed extracts of Moringa stenopetala and tuber extracts of Maerua subcordata: a locally used plant based water purifiers

BAYE Samuale Tesfaye

Effects of atmosphere-vegetation interactions on water availability in the Nile River basin from 1982 to 2021

DAMTIE Yilebes Addisu

Impacts of Invasive Water Hyacinth on Rural Households’ Livelihoods and Food Security Outcome: The case of Lake Tana, Amhara National Regional State, Ethiopia

ABEBE Shiferaw

Allometric modelling, biomass accumulation and carbon stock in Oxytenantheraabyssinica (Lowland bamboo) forests of North-western Ethiopia

TIRUNEH Mengie Belayneh

Evidence based implementation of soil and water conservation for effective watershed management in Gumara watershed, Northwestern Ethiopia.

GHANA

OTABIL Kenneth Bentum

The genetic, biochemical and functional characterization of a novel amidase enzyme and its potential as a therapeutic target in adult Onchocerca volvulus helminths

DAPILAH Frederick

Assessment of equity and justice in climate change adaptation in semi-arid Northern Ghana

SOLIKU Ophelia

Contribution of Protected Areas to the achievement of Some Sustainable Development Goals: the linkages, immediate outcomes, challenges and way forward

KUBUGA Clement

Community container gardening and water banks for dietary diversity and food security among smallholder farmers in rural northern Ghana

ODOOM Peter Rock Ebo

Rainfall and temperature extremes projections over West Africa and the associated impact on hydrological extremes at the White Volta Basin.

ANKU William Wilson

InoTechWater: Innovative and Low-cost Technology for Fluoride Removal from Water

BESSAH Enoch

Co-production of integrated indigenous and scientific weather and seasonal climate forecast for water resources management and food production in the Pra River Basin of Ghana

BADU Mercy

Structural Characterisation of Micro-nutritional, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory Specific Compounds found in Oilseeds and their Respective Bioavailability.

LARBI Isaac

Water Security under different Climate Change Scenarios: Modelling Saltwater Intrusion in the Coastal Aquifers of Ghana.

KENYA

NYONGESA Benson

Exploiting genetic variations in the rice germplasms to outsmart blast disease in Kenya

ASUDI George Ochieng

Discovery of the attractive allelochemicals in the construction of vector traps for use in integrated management of the Maiestas banda and Napier grass stunt phytoplasma

Menge Daniel M

Evaluation of the effect of farmer tillage practices on the expression and function of root developmental traits and its impact on the growth and yield of upland rice in central Kenya

ATEKA Josiah Mwangi

Effect of Participatory Forest Management on Household Food and Nutrition Security in Kenya

JOSHUA Musau

Evaluating genetic variation in leaf and flowering phenology in Melia volkensii

MBAKA John

Applying citizen science in biomonitoring of selected riverine ecosystems in Kenya

OTIENO Anna

Aquatox modelling of the influence of land use and land cover changes on water quality, ma-

croinvertebrates and macrophytes distribution in Ondiri swamp, Kiambu county, Kenya

MWANGI Esther

Assessing the genetic impact of interspecific hybridization between Agapornis fischeri (Fischer’s Lovebird) and Agapornis personatus (Yellow-collared Lovebird) in the wild in Kenya.

NYAMATO George

Solid-liquid extraction of toxic heavy metals from wastewater using silica-immobilized chelating agents

MUTUA Gershom

Application of Natural and Iron Impregnated Zeolites as Adsorbents for the Removal of Selected Halogenated Pollutants from Water: An Experimental and Computational Study

MUSA Safina

Estimation of nutrient loading in the wastes of Nile Tilapia reared in cages in a eutrophic lake

MUTINDA Sylvia

Marker aided Selection of Striga(witch weed) resistant sorghum

ONGAGA Edinah

Bioactivity of Kenyan crotalaria species and associated endophytes

KUJA Josiah

Comparative Genomics: Spatial-Temporal

Analyses of the Dominant Cyanobacteria and Proteobacterial species across Lewis Glacier and its Foreland in Mt. Kenya

LESOTHO

MOSEBI Poloko Emmanuel

Potential of forage legumes as cover crops and silage intervention in the rainfed farming system of the Lesotho Lowlands region

MADAGASCAR

FANJANIANA Marie Lucia

”Nutrient flows and functioning of a mixedfarming system in the Central highlands of Madagascar: an application of network analysis. Case study in the Haute Matsiatra region.”

RALAMBONIRINA Sylvia

Development of phytodrugs and phytocosmetics from four Madagascan medicinal plants

MALAWI

ABDERAHIM Ahmadou

Implement a decision support system to control mycotoxin contamination in raw milk production in Bamako-Mali - MILKSAFE

TIMITEY Aboubacar

Improvement of granulation and steam-cooking operations for medium scale production of highquality couscous made from cowpea (shô basi)

MALI

NKHATA Smith

Enhancement of Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags’ performance for maintaining nutrition quality of vitamin A maize (biofortified maize) during postharvest storage

MAKWINJA Rodgers

Elephant Marsh wetland ecosystem services under changing catchment; implication on management and restoration effort.

MONGOLIA

AMGALAN Solongo

Phytochemical constituents and biological activity of Mongolian medicinal plant Leptopyrumfumarioides (L.) Reichenb.

MOROCCO

HICHAM Farsi

Sleep and circadian rhythms under the harsh desert biotope conditions: Effect of heat stress and dehydration in the dromedary camel and the Moroccan black desert goat.

NEPAL DAHAL Amol

Can Trichoderma be a substitute for chemical fungicides in agricultural farms in Nepal?

NIGER

ABDOU Razakou Ibrahim Bio Yerima

Improving the productivity of an orphan small grain cereal crop: the fonio millet (Digitaria exilis) in Niger.

NIGERIA

ADEWUMI Adeyinka

Genetic diversity and genome-wide association studies of bush yam (D.praehensilisBenth.) in Ghana using DArT (diversity array technology) tools

BARAU Aliyu Akilu

Diffusion of Innovative Soil Management Practices for Sustainable Vegetable Farming

ADEJUMOBI Idris

Yam (Dioscoreaspp.) genetic diversity in DR Congo: A roadmap to enhancing food security

ADEYEMI Adenike

Evaluation of gonadal development and fertility indices of heterogeneous rabbits in the rainforest zone of Nigeria

BABATOLA Leye

Impact of Climate Change on Nutrient, Antioxidant and Medicinal Properties of Some Tropical Leafy Vegetables in Nigeria

ADEKUNLE Latifat

The immunomodulation of micronutrient supplementation on infectious Bursal disease virus response in commercial chickens

ADEYEMI Maxwell

Nutritive evaluation of Cassava Plant Meals as diets in life cycle feeding of pigs

BELLO Muhammad Bashir

Molecular and biological characterisation of some poultry respiratory viruses in Northwestern Nigeria

ODE Samuel

Detection and molecular characterization of Toxoplasma gondii in fishes captured from major water bodies in Nigeria

ADEBOWALE Tolulope

Fortification of Cassava By-Product as an Alternative to Maize in Meat-type Poultry Birds

Production

SOGE Ayodele

Detection of wood decay and hollows in living trees using electrical resistivity method

ANYAMA Chinyere

Investigation of metal-organic frameworks and the derived nano metal oxide materials in wastewater treatment

CHUKWUMA Emmanuel

Rainwater Harvesting For Climate Change

Adaptation In Erosion Prone Zones of SouthEastern State of Nigeria: GIS-Based Assessment and Mitigation Measures

EJIMOFOR Marcel

Identification and removal of Chlorhexidine and p-chloro-aniline from aqueous media using cross-linked gastropod shell protein (conchiolin) adsorbent.

OSUOLALE Olayinka

Publicly sold package drinking water microbiome and the associated microbial risk quantification for identification and effective communication of waterborne hazards

ANYANWU Gabriel

Antidiabetic and Antiobesity activities of fractions of Mucuna flagellipes Hook.f in 3T3-L1 cells and in silico models

EZE Peter

Exploring endophytic fungi associated with Nigerian plants for antimicrobial compounds

BANKOLE Owolabi

Fabrication of porous magnetic polymers as reactive adsorbents for photodegradation of industrial textile dye effluents

OLADEJO Ayobami

Effects of ultrasound, Microwave and vacuum Drying pretreatment on the Quality of Plantain Chips During Deep Fat Frying

ELELU Nusirat

Detection and Molecular characterization of Coxiella burnetii from livestock-keeping environment in Kwara State, North-central Nigeria.

PAKISTAN

RAFIQ Amna

Development of instrument free, inexpensive, paper based devices for the detection of agricultural pathogens

MOHSIN GILANI Syed Mashkoor

Transmission Dynamics of Antimicrobial Resistance in Broiler Production Pyramid: A Farm to Fork Study

NAWAZ Aneela

Bacteriophages’ proteins: alternative approach to antibiotics against Gram-negative bacteria in resistance era

DASTAGIR Nida

In Vitro and in Vivo Studies of Camel Milk Proteins and Peptides – A Potential Therapeutic Approach Towards Liver Cirrhosis

RAHMAN Lutfur

Nanoparticles embedded nanofibrous membrane for water purification

KHAN Muhammad Younis

Geophysical and Geochemical characterization of Hazar Khwani open dumpsite at Peshawar, Pakistan: Implications for soil and groundwater management

UDDIN Zia

Isolation, characterization, and evaluation of hydrolase enzymes inhibitory potential of Buxus wallichiana.

RWANDA

HAKIZIMANA Jean Nepomuscene

Genomic surveillance and characterization of African swine fever virus genotypes circulating in Rwanda

TOGO

TAALE Essodolom

Microbiological analysis of dairy products and manufacturing processes in the prefecture of Kozah in Togo for the sanitary standard improvement

AMEGNAGLO Kossi Béssan

Multi-dimensional evaluation of grazed plant communities and pastoral resources management approaches in the multifunctional landscapes of the sudanian zone of Togo (West Africa)

ASSOU Délagnon

Ichthyological communities in Togo’s coastal lagoon system: diversity, ecology, and exploitation

OURO-SAMA Kamilou

Speciation, mobility, bioavailability and ecological risk of trace elements in the sediments of a tropical hydrosystem and agricultural soils around the phosphorite plant in Kpémé (South Togo)

TUNISIA

KDIDI Samia

Design of small SNP panel to predict dairy breed proportion in Tunisian crossbred goat population

HAJJI Hadhami

Effects of pomegranate (PunicagranatumL.) peels incorporation in concentrate feed on goat production performances’, kids’ early growth performances and rumen and milk microbial pattern.

UGANDA

ADERO Joanne

Identification and validation of genetic markers for host resistance against sweetpotato viruses

KIVUMBI Bernard

Carbonized briquettes produced from blending potassium nitrate, charcoal fines, and African Elemi resin

KOBUSINGE Judith

Determining the distribution of fine roots and water use in Robusta coffee growing under Albizia coriaria and Ficus natalensis agroforestry systems compared to open sun

MASIKA Fred

Population genetic structure and molecular characterization of viruses in genera potyvirus, polerovirus and ilarvirus infecting pumpkin and watermelon in Uganda

EGESSA Robert

Microbe and heavy metal pollutants on plastisphere in northern Lake Victoria: Potential ecological risks

AMULEN Deborah Ruth

Molecular characterisation of the unassigned (unique) bee gut bacteria identified in Uganda as a follow-up study

FATUMAH Nakiguli

Assessment of the post-release effects of the reintroduced Barbour’s Vlei Rodent (Otomys barbouri) population in Mabira Forest, Central Uganda

VIETNAM

THANH Lam Phuoc

Feeding jackfruit leaves to improve milk production, milk quality and mitigate methane emission in dairy goats

LE Phuong Hong

Adding value of coconut by-products through bioconversion technology

HOANG Minh Duc

Use of lytic phages to control Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus isolated from cows with mastitis in Vietnam

NGUYEN Thi Mai

Study on the effect of dietary peptidoglycan and probiotic on growth, feed utilisation, immune response, and pathogen resistance in striped catfish Pangasianodon hypophthalmus

SON Ngo Thanh

Integrated Assessment of Nonpoint Pollution Sources and Water Quality Responses in Agricultural Watershed of Northwestern Vietnam

LE Huong

Organic compound removal from water by graphene oxide/Fe3O4/Ag nanocomposite: adsorption and degradation with NaBH4 or H2O2

QUAN Nguyen

Inclusion of biochar in pigs’ diet to mitigate ammonia emission from pig manure

PHAM Thanh-Luu

Occurrence, risk assessment and removal of antibiotics in water and benthic sediment of Tri An Reservoir, a drinking-water supply in Southern Vietna

TÂM Tα Thi

From peasants to merchants: Social capital and entrepreneurship among buffalo traders in the Red River Delta of Vietna

Research

grants awarded by IFS Clusters 2022

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Research grants awarded by gender 2022

SUPPORTING YOUNG RESEARCHERS

The International Foundation for Science (IFS) supports early career scientists in Low- and Lower-Middle-Income Countries through grants and capacity-enhancing activities. IFS was established as a non-governmental organisation in 1972, is funded by the academic, development and private sectors and has provided more than 8000 grants to researchers in 105 countries for a half-century.