Agriculture & Environment
CONSORMIP Project boosts Nutritional & Market Value of Sorghum & Millet
Published
3 years agoon
Commercialization of New Sorghum and Millet Products for Improved Nutrition and Socio-Economic Gains in Eastern Africa (CONSORMIP)
Sorghum and millet are key crops in Uganda’s agricultural food systems and directly and indirectly support over 10 million livelihoods in the country. The two crops are tolerant to arid and dry environments. They are highly nutritious, not known to be allergenic, have low glycemic index (help lower the risk of conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart diseases), and contain phytochemicals beneficial to health. Despite their nutritional benefits, “the crops are increasingly disappearing from our diets”.
With support from SIDA through BioInnovate Africa, researchers from the Department of Food Technology and Nutrition at the College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (CAES), together with their counterparts from Sokoine University of Agriculture in Tanzania and Hawassa University in Ethiopia in 2018 set out to study and improve the nutritional and market value of the crops.
Through a project titled; “Commercialization of New Sorghum and Millet Products for Improved Nutrition and Socio-Economic Gains in Eastern Africa (CONSORMIP)”, the researchers including Prof. Yusuf Byaruhanga (Principal Investigator), Prof. Kyamuhangire William, and Dr. Gaston Ampe Tumuhimbise, targeted to improve food and nutrition security, incomes and livelihoods of smallholder farmers and other stakeholders in the sorghum and millet value chains in Eastern Africa.
The project specifically aimed to address the market gap – lack of value added, convenient sorghum and millet products, and to commercialize instant flour, snacks and complimentary feed made from sorghum and millet using lean business start-up and business incubation approaches. In the course of implementing the project, each partner country targeted to deliver at least one start-up enterprise commercializing one product and its attendant technology.
Project closing meeting
On 4th May 2022 the research team led by Prof. Yusuf Byaruhanga held an end of project meeting at which they disseminated the findings and achievements registered. The meeting held at the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering was graced by Makerere University Vice Chancellor, represented by the First Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Prof. Umar Kakumba and attended by the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie N. Nabanoga; the Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, Dr. Abel Atukwase; the Head, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Dr. Ivan Mukisa Muzira; and senior members of staff at CAES.
Achievements registered
Presenting the achievements, Prof. Byaruhanga noted that the project team had developed novel value-added products including instant sorghum and millet flours, expanded snack food, complimentary feed, and breakfast cereal products. Other achievements included processing protocols and formulations for the four product types; creating new business opportunities; and boosting capacity for research and development in the sorghum and millet value chains. The project trained three research fellows, one MSc research graduate, and several BSc research graduates. The project also developed and supported SMEs in each partner country as a vehicle for commercialization of the developed value-added products in the respective countries. It also trained four farmer groups in postharvest handling of grain foods.
Lessons learnt
- In the production of cereals, maize still has an economic advantage over sorghum and millet. Therefore, there is need for high yielding and quick maturing sorghum and millet varieties.
- Drudgery is one of the reasons for less millet and sorghum on the market.
- Commercialization is different for each product.
- The ultimate value of a product or innovation is in the market and not patent. “Many times we focus on patenting of our products but the biggest value of an innovation is in marketing,” Prof. Byaruhanga explained.
Remarks by the DVC Academic Affairs
Addressing the meeting, the Deputy Vice Chancellor (DVC) in charge of Academic Affairs, Makerere University, Prof. Umar Kakumba applauded the research team for uplifting the name and ranking of the University. “CAES ranks highly in terms of research output at Makerere University and plays a pivotal role in linking the University with communities,” he noted. Despite the achievements registered in research and innovation, Prof. Kakumba said the university was not faring well in the area of knowledge translation. Reechoing the vision of the University that seeks to transform Makerere into a thought leader of knowledge generation for societal transformation and development, Prof. Kakumba explained that knowledge generated at the University must inform the processes of the transforming the country. He acknowledged the efforts of Professors in advancing the University’s research agenda. He expressed gratitude to SIDA and BioInnovate Africa for the support accorded to the project and other research activities at the University. He also appreciated the Government of Uganda for supporting high impact and transformative research at the University. Additionally, he appreciated the project partners, noting that such collaborations are crucial in building strategic partnerships. He reminded the research team to work towards patenting their products.
In her remarks, the Principal of CAES, Prof. Gorettie N. Nabanoga appreciated the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering for its outstanding contribution to research and Innovation at the University. Despite the small number of staff, the School has won many big grants and has successfully implemented many high impact research projects. The School features prominently with respect to resource mobilization,” she noted, reiterating the need to patent and commercialize all products and innovations generated at the University.
The Principal appreciated Makerere University Management for supporting research and innovation development. She also appreciated SIDA and BioInnovate Africa for supporting research at CAES and the University in general.
The Dean, School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, Prof. Abel Atukwase appreciated the research team for the great outputs intended to boost food security. He equally appreciated the SIDA and BioInnovate Africa for supporting Makerere University’s agenda of becoming a research-led University. Commenting on the relevance of Professors in generating research grants, supervising and mentoring junior staff and students, he appealed to Management to work out measures of retaining all professors post retirement.
The Head, Department of Food Technology and Nutrition, Dr. Ivan Muzira Mukisa appreciated the contribution of senior researchers and Professors towards research and innovation at Makerere University. He equally appreciated the development partners for supporting research and innovation at the University.
The workshop was moderated by Dr. Gaston Ampe Tumuhimbise from the School of Food Technology, Nutrition and Bio-Engineering, CAES.
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Agriculture & Environment
Call for Applications: Four (4) PhD Positions – BOLDER Project
Published
2 days agoon
December 4, 2024By
Mak EditorBuilding Opportunity for Lesser-known Diversity in Edible Resources (BOLDER) of the Crop Trust
Opportunity Crop Scholarships
Call for applications for four PhD positions
Makerere University Regional Centre for Crop Improvement (MaRCCI),
Makerere University & The Norwegian University of Life Sciences
1st December 2024
Background
One of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals is to attain zero hunger by 2030, but whether most of African countries are on track towards this ideal is questionable, While the continent is projected to be the most populous one by the year 2100, a critical mass of its population is already food-insecure, a situation that is being exacerbated by climate change and environmental degradations.
Coping with these complex issues require adopting an integrated approach of disrupting overreliance on major commodities such as rice, maize, and wheat over the opportunity crops also called neglected and underutilized species (NUS). These species are nutrient-dense, hold the ability to help diversify both the agricultural and the food system and constitute a security net that filters pest and disease-caused damages3. However, the current organizational architecture of these species suggests they cannot compete with the so-called major crops because of several limitations including: the paucity of established data (e.g., production statistics, nutritional data), the poorly organized value chains (when they exist), and the low flow of knowledge, technology and products among the value chains actors, among others.
The ‘Building Opportunities for Lesser-known Diversity in Edible Resources’ (BOLDER) project, an extended work package of the larger ‘Biodiversity for Opportunity, Livelihoods and Development’ (BOLD) initiative is designed to promote opportunity crops in West African countries (Benin and Ghana) and East African countries (Uganda and Tanzania). BOLDER is a three-phase project dedicated to improving nutritional security in West and East Africa through the increased use and value of nutritious but currently underutilized, climate-resilient and environmentally friendly crops.
BOLDER will work towards exhibiting the potential for four opportunity crops in each of the four target countries and operates through three pillars namely: i) increasing the availability of the target opportunity crops diversity; ii) improving the production, marketing, and/or consumption of these opportunity crops, and iii) enhancing the capacity of researchers, practitioners, and food system actors to improve use and value of opportunity crops. Under this third pillar, a total of eight PhDs students (four in East Africa and four in West Africa) will be trained in Plant Sciences, Food Systems and Value Chain R4D. The PhD training in East Africa will be coordinated by MaRCCI, Makerere University, in collaboration with The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU).
Objectives of this call
This call for applications is open to citizens of Uganda and Tanzania to fill four PhD positions: two in Plant Sciences and two in Food Systems.
All four PhD candidates will register at Makerere University and will be supervised by a panel of scientists from MaRCCI, Department of Agricultural Production (DAP), Department of Plant Sciences, Microbiology and Biotechnology (PMB), and Department of Agribusiness & Natural Resource Economics (DANRE), The Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU), The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT (ABC) and the World Vegetable Center (World Veg). Decisions about supervisory arrangements will be made based on research proposals of successful applicants.
Expectations from the recruited PhD candidates
The two Plant Science PhD candidates through their research will contribute to the BOLDER project output of characterizing opportunity crops’ diversity and participatory evaluations using the TRICOT approach, while the other two students will contribute to the BOLDER Output of deepening our understanding of opportunity crops food systems and value chains and pursuing opportunities for greater contributions to livelihoods and diets.
Plant Science Applicants
The two Plant Science PhD student research projects will focus on the genetic and low-cost phenotypic characterization of farmer collection/landraces, genebank, and breeding materials for opportunity crops (stakeholder selected opportunity crops for Uganda i.e. cowpea, pumpkin, and amaranth, while for Tanzania the pre-selected crops are Bambara groundnuts and sweet potato). The aim is to generate key information on the adaptive traits of opportunity crops, their nutritional value, and their suitability for different uses, such as food, feed, and fiber. The research will further identify unique genotypes and suitable breeding strategies for improving desirable traits.
Another aspect of the PhD research will involve conducting a performance evaluation of opportunity crops traits using the citizen science approach known as triadic comparisons of technology options (tricot). This approach applies to an incomplete block design to assign randomized incomplete blocks of three technologies (out of larger number) to many farmers from different gender and socioeconomic groups for on-farm assessment in diverse agro-ecologies. Combining this approach with digital tools makes it possible to obtain insights for both local adaptation and a scale of reach compared to earlier participatory plant breeding/variety selection approaches. This approach has shown promising results recently and it is on the scale in East Africa. The planned PhD research and training will be critical in building local capacity for demand-led breeding and evaluation of opportunity crops using data science at a low cost in East Africa. The goal is to improve the identification and selection of opportunity crops varieties with desirable traits, ultimately leading to the mainstreaming of NUS in sustainable food systems in Africa.
In summary, the PhD projects will combine genomics research and on-farm tricot experiments and provide evidence on how this approach can lead to a demand-driven breeding of different NUS, accelerate trait discovery for climate adaptation, strengthen seed systems, increase use of NUS, and create links to the value chain.
We invite PhD research concept note focusing on one of the pre-selected crops in one of the countries.
Food Systems Applicants
The two PhD research projects in Food Systems will focus on two main areas, also in relation to the selected species for the two countries. The first area will be value chains of the focal crops. Specifically, this aspect of the research will characterize the current state of value chains and explore bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and opportunities, including related to production, processing, distribution, marketing and consumption.
The research will also analyze the demand for opportunity crop products, the preferences and behaviors of consumers (including consumer preference trials using the tricot approach), and the most effective interventions for promoting opportunity crops in food systems.
The second area of focus in Food Systems will be the nexus between traditional knowledge on the cultivation and consumption of NUS (local food culture) and the broader political and economic factors affecting the development and promotion of opportunity crops in inclusive and equitable food systems. This project will examine the interconnection between the cultural practices of local communities regarding the cultivation and consumption of opportunity crops and the wider economic and political systems that shape the food systems in which these communities operate. On the one hand, local food cultures have evolved over generations and reflect the specific ecological, social, and cultural contexts in which they are situated. This traditional knowledge often includes cultivation practices, processing methods, and culinary traditions associated with opportunity crops. Such traditional knowledge is important for
understanding opportunity crops nutritional, cultural, and economic significance and how they can be integrated into sustainable food systems. On the other hand, development and promotion of opportunity crops in inclusive and equitable food systems is shaped by broader political and economic factors, including government policies, global trade agreements, corporate influence, and consumer preferences. These factors can create barriers to the promotion and development of opportunity crops, which can impact the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and the availability of diverse and nutritious foods for local communities. By understanding these factors, the research will aim to identify opportunities to promote the development and promotion of opportunity crops in inclusive and equitable food systems in Africa.
We invite PhD research concept note that addresses one of the two food system areas outlined above. The proposal can focus on or several of the pre-selected crops in one or both of the countries.
Scholarship: financial support and duration
The scholarship includes subsistence allowances, contribution to research costs,
insurance cost, contribution to conference attendance cost and cost related to the
participation in BOLDER-organized training relevant to the various PhD topics. The PhD
candidate will also benefit from a three-month mobility (once) to conduct parts of his/her
research at NBMU.
a) The PhD duration is 48 months.
b) PhD students will receive a monthly stipend of $600 for Ugandans and $700 for
Tanzania Nationals (when in Uganda) and 1,500 Euros when in Norway. This amount
includes settling allowance.
c) Additional benefits are available on a case-by-case basis.
Eligibility
Applicants should meet the following criteria at the time of their scholarship application:
a) be a citizen of Uganda or Tanzania.
b) be proficient in written and spoken English.
c) not be currently enrolled or have a running scholarship in another PhD program.
For Plant Science Students:
d) hold a MSc degree in agronomy, plant breeding, genetics, biotechnology, crop protection or another relevant discipline.
e) demonstrate knowledge of or prior experience with tricot methodology and genomics research.
For Food Systems Students:
f) hold a MSc degree in Agricultural and Applied economics, Agribusiness, Agricultural economics, or another relevant discipline.
g) demonstrate experience of prior research on value chains, consumer behavior, or political economy of food systems.
Applicants who have working experience on the listed NUS crops will have an added
advantage.
Submission
The Scholarship application file is to be submitted as PDF attachment by the deadline to the emails indicated in section, and should include the following:
a) Cover or motivation letter.
b) Student research concept note that clearly indicates the topic to which the candidate applies (3 pages maximum).
c) National ID or Copy of Passport Bio Data page.
d) Certificate of previous degree(s) /or a Proof that the degree(s) has been completed;
e) All transcripts/academic records.
f) A support letter from home Higher Education Institution (from the MSc supervisor);
g) Two recommendation letters.
h) Curriculum Vitae.
i) Any other supporting documents (e.g., first page of publications).
Deadline
Applications should be submitted to Ms. Candia Alice on e-mail cndlc95@gmail.com and copy in Dr. Ozimati Alfred Adebo: ozimatialfred@gmail.com and Dr. Dramadri Isaac Onziga onzigaisaac@gmail.com not later than December 20th, 2024. All applications received will be acknowledged, however only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and invited for an interview.
Agriculture & Environment
Call for Applications: Graduate Fellow (Biometry)
Published
2 days agoon
December 4, 2024By
Mak EditorAre you fascinated by the possibilities of being a Biometrician/Biostatistician? Are you eager to be at the forefront of innovation in the field of Biometry? The Department of Agricultural Production is searching for a Graduate Fellow in Biometry to join its teaching and research team and contribute towards groundbreaking advancements in this rapidly-evolving field.
Position Overview:
As a Graduate Fellow in Biometry, you’ll play a pivotal role in the research support unit, collaborating with renowned experts and researchers. Your responsibilities will encompass:
- Assist in preparation of teaching materials, interact directly with students in the laboratories; conduct practical and tutorial sessions
- Assist in setting, marking and grading of assignments, tests and examinations
- Supporting faculty members and students with designing and implementing experiments, data collection, analysis, and interpretation
- Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams to integrate biometry solutions into various applications.
- Conducting original research in Biometry
Qualifications and Eligibility:
- Enrolled in an MSc or PhD program in Biostatistics, Biometry, Statistics, Crop Science, Plant Breeding or any related field
- Possesses a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture OR Horticulture OR Statistics OR Biostatistics (at least an Upper Second Class)
- Has a strong foundation in Biometry principles, machine learning and data analysis
- Proficient in programming languages such as R, Python, MATLAB, or C++
- Possesses excellent problem-solving skills and a creative approach to research challenges
- Has a passion for exploring new frontiers in Biometry and contributing to scientific advancements
- Shall not be more than 35 years old (45 years for PhD) at the time of recruitment
Benefits:
In addition to contributing to cutting-edge research, the Graduate Fellow in Biometry position offers:
- An annual tuition waiver offered by the University
- Mentorship from distinguished researchers and staff members
- Opportunities for professional development, workshops, and seminars
- Potential to co-author research papers and patents
- Widening your professional networks
Application Process:
To apply, please submit the following documents to the Office of the Chair, Department of Agricultural Production (Room 48), School of Agricultural Sciences Building by 5 pm on the 20th December 2024:
- Admission letter (to MSc or PhD program)
- Curriculum Vitae/Resume
- Cover letter detailing your interest and qualifications
- Transcripts from previous academic institution(s)
- Contact information for three referees
Agriculture & Environment
JRS Announces Grant for Young Researchers ahead of 3rd GORILLA Conference
Published
4 weeks agoon
November 6, 2024By
Mak EditorAnnouncement of JRS Biodiversity Foundation Funding for the upcoming 3rd International Conference on Geographical Science for Resilient Communities, Ecosystems and Livelihoods under Global Environmental Change International (GORILLA)
Makerere University and the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) are organizing the 3rd International Conference on Geographical Science for Resilient Communities, Ecosystems and Livelihoods under Global Environmental Change (GORILLA). The conference is scheduled to take place at Hotel Africana from 4th to 6th December 2024 and will be officially opened by the Minister of State for Environment, Hon. Beatrice Atim Anywar. The GORILLA conference (https://gorilla.mak.ac.ug) which is anchored in the United Nations Global Development Agenda 2030 will be organized around 12 subthemes. Approximately 350 abstracts have been submitted and between 300-400 participants from 50 countries are expected to participate.
We are delighted to share the excellent news that the JRS Biodiversity Foundation has awarded a grant to support the participation of promising young researchers and early career scientists from Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) in the GORILLA Conference. This funding will enable implementation of pre-conference training activities at Makerere University, tailored to improving capabilities and competencies of emerging researchers and early career scientists from SSA. These planned pre-GORILLA conference training activities are detailed on the conference website (https://gorilla.mak.ac.ug/pre-conference/pre-conference-activities-2024) and applications are welcome from qualifying researchers and emerging scholars. Additionally, the JRS grant will support researchers and early career scientists whose abstracts have been accepted for presentation to participate in the GORILLA conference. Preference will be given to those working on biodiversity and related fields within SSA.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the JRS Biodiversity Foundation for their generous support of the 3rd International GORILLA Conference, enabling the young researchers and emerging scholars participation. The JRS Biodiversity Foundation is committed to empowering people and institutions to share and apply biodiversity knowledge across Sub Saharan Africa. Through their funding, the JRS Biodiversity Foundation strives to enhance access to and use of biodiversity information in SSA, promoting biodiversity conservation as a cornerstone of societal well-being and ecosystem health.
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