Wissen für morgen - Kooperative Forschungsvorhaben im subsaharischen Afrika / Knowledge for Tomorrow - Cooperative Research Projects in Sub-Saharan Africa

Bewilligungen / Grants 2011

Managing forest wildlife for human livelihoods in the Korup-Oban Hills region, West-Central Africa. A multi-agent systems model to assess socio-economic and ecological sustainability (extension)

Bewilligung: 05.12.2011 Laufzeit: 2 Jahre

The proposed project, a joint venture of four African and one German institution, is one of 'research consolidation' and should capitalize on the results obtained in the first phase, deepen understanding of key socio-cultural and economic issues related to wildlife and further build the capacities of students, especially the involved five PhD students. Besides the finalisation of their theses, PhD students will be offered language courses, as well as training to enhance soft skills such as report and grant proposal writing. They will also be involved in teaching, such as field schools on bushmeat and livelihoods, targeting BSc and MSc students. Furthermore, the applicants intend to increase academic networking through increased presence at international conferences, presenting results from the project. In addition, through continued active involvement of stakeholders at all levels the applicants also intend to contribute to processes of establishment of communal wildlife management areas in the region. The project has been shown to be a very timely initiative to clarify options to obtain legal land tenure by local communities whose livelihoods depend primarily on natural resources but most often lack land tenure rights, a serious drawback in an era of globalisation and 'land grabbing'.

Universität Göttingen
Zentrum für Naturschutz
Abteilung Naturschutzbiologie
Dr. Matthias Waltert

University of Dschang, Dschang
Department of Forestry
Dr. Kadiri Serge Bobo
KAMERUN

Tshwane University of Technology
Department of Safety and Security Management
Soshanguve South Campus
Dr. Emeka Obioha
SÜDAFRIKA

University of Yaoundé
Department of Geography
Prof. Dr. Roger Ngoufo
KAMERUN

University of Ibadan
Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry
Department of Forest Resources Management
Dr. Saka Oladunni Jimoh
NIGERIA

Ansprechpartner:
Universität Göttingen
Zentrum für Naturschutz
Abteilung Naturschutzbiologie
Dr. Matthias Waltert
Von-Siebold-Str. 2
37075 Göttingen
Tel.: 0551 39 22313
Fax: 0551 39 9234
Homepage: http://www.uni-goettingen.de/en/117392.html

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Mobility, networks and institutions in the management of natural resources in contemporary Africa - extension

Bewilligung: 01.12.2011 Laufzeit: 2 Jahre

The first phase of the project investigated the relationship between mobility and the management of natural resources in African savannah environments as a result of processes of globalization, commoditization and rural impoverishment that lead to an increasing flow of people, ideas and capital. In the course of the project broader conceptions of mobility have been explored. Mobility strategically employed by human actors embodies not only the physical mobility of people between places but is closely connected to other flows that occur between places, including a variety of natural resources but also cultural repertoires, modes of business decision making, property rights and related institutional models. The new and different, even contrasting patterns of mobility are in analytical terms linked to the emergence of new sets of actors and brought land back on the academic and development agenda. The project examines land from a mobility angle and more specifically with a close focus on the two opposing interconnections between mobility and land based resources. The new mobilities raise critical questions about sustainability and put the on-going shift from community based to elite based management models on the agenda.

Universität Köln
Philosophische Fakultät
Cologne African Studies Centre
Institut für Ethnologie
Prof. Dr. Michael Bollig

Wageningen University
Department of Social Sciences
Sociology of Rural Development
Dr. Paul Hebinck
NIEDERLANDE

Leiden University
African Studies Centre
Dr. Mirjam de Bruijn
NIEDERLANDE

University of Cape Town
Department of Social Anthropology
5.23 Arts Building
Prof. Dr. Francis B. Nyamnjoh
SÜDAFRIKA

University of Buea
Faculty of Social and Management Sciences
Department of Political Science and Public
Public Administration
Dr. Tangie Nsoh Fonchingong
KAMERUN

Ansprechpartner:
Universität Köln
Philosophische Fakultät
Cologne African Studies Centre
Institut für Ethnologie
Prof. Dr. Michael Bollig
Albertus-Magnus-Platz
50931 Köln
Tel.: 0221 470 3501
Fax: 0221 470 5117
Homepage: http://www.ethnologie.uni-koeln.de/mitarbeiter/bollig.shtml

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Epidemiological, entomological and immunological studies on cutaneous leishmaniasis and coinfections in northern Cameroon (extension)

Bewilligung: 12.07.2011 Laufzeit:

Universitätsmedizin der Johannes
Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
Hautklinik und Poliklinik
Prof. Dr. Esther von Stebut-Borschitz

Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin
Klinik für Dermatologie, Venerologie
und Allergologie
Prof. Dr. Marcus Maurer

Zentraler Sanitätsdienst der Bundeswehr, Koblenz
Abteilung für medizinische
Entomologie und Zoologie
Prof. Dr. Michael Faulde

Bundeswehr Krankenhaus Hamburg
Branch Tropical Medicine at
Bernhard-Nocht-Institute
Priv.-Doz. Dr. Andreas Krüger

Central Washington University, Ellensburg
Department Biological Sciences
Dr. Blaise Dondji
USA

University of Douala, Douala
Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy
Prof. Dr. Albert-Legrand Same-Ekobo
KAMERUN

Ansprechpartner:
Universitätsmedizin der Johannes
Gutenberg-Universität Mainz
Hautklinik und Poliklinik
Prof. Dr. Esther von Stebut-Borschitz
Langenbeckstr. 1
55131 Mainz
Tel.: 06131 17 5731
Fax: 06131 17 5527
Homepage: http://www.hautklinik-mainz.de

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Cross-location modelling of resource use efficiency in West African urban livestock systems and scenario development for enhancing production efficiencies and increasing returns to livestock keepers (Dr. Luc Dossa)

Bewilligung: 18.04.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Livestock is an important component of West African urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA). During the past two decades, there has been a growing interest in UPA in West Africa and in its contribution to food security and livelihoods. However, most recently conducted problem-driven research has addressed vegetable production and focused on nutrient leaching, crop uptake of heavy metals and food safety, while the animal husbandry component of UPA has been largely neglected. The current project focuses instead on the animal production component of UPA systems and its often weak linkages to urban vegetable production. Its overall goal is to evaluate the productivity and sustainability of the urban livestock systems and identify possibilities for an optimized use of resources that increases returns to livestock keepers in three West African cities: Kano in Nigeria, Sikasso in Mali and Niamey in Niger. More specifically, the project aims at developing and adapting a modelling framework to analyze the complex components of urban livestock systems, and to identify and test alternative management options for an economically and environmentally sustainable use of resources within these systems.

Universität Hannover
Institut für Biologische Produktionssysteme
Fachgebiet Systemmodellierung Gemüsebau
Prof. Dr. Hartmut Stützel
Herrenhäuser Straße 2
30419 Hannover
Tel.: 0511-762-2635
Fax: 0511-762-3606
Homepage: http://www.gartenbau.uni-hannover.de/gem.index.htm

Institut National de l'Environnement et
de Recherches Agricoles (INERA), Bobo-Dioulasso
Urban Food Project
Station de Farako-Ba
Dr. Luc Hippolyte Dossa
Bobo-Dioulasso
BURKINA FASO

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Koordination und Bereitstellung der von 6 Antragsteller/inne/n beantragten Mittel für Vorbereitungsworkshops im Rahmen der Auswahlkonferenz "Postdoctoral Fellowships in the Social Sciences in Sub-Saharan Africa"

Universität Frankfurt am Main
Zentrum für Interdisziplinäre
Afrikaforschung (ZIAF)
Campus Westend
Prof. Dr. Mamadou Diawara

Leibniz-Institut für Agrarentwicklung
in Mittel- und Osteuropa (IAMO), Halle (Saale)
Roland Azibo Balgah

Makerere University, Kampala
Department of Social Work
David Kyaddondo
UGANDA

Laboratory for the Study and Research
of Social Dynamics and Local Development
(LASDEL), Parakou, Benin
Azizou Chabi Imorou
BENIN

University of Dar es Salaam
Esther K. Ishengoma
TANSANIA

Swiss Center of Scientific Research
(CSRS), Abidjan
Dr. Gnangadjomon Koné
ELFENBEINKÜSTE

University of Ghana, Accra
Department of Sociology
Dr. Martha Adimabuno Awo
GHANA

Ansprechpartner:
Universität Frankfurt am Main
Zentrum für Interdisziplinäre
Afrikaforschung (ZIAF)
Campus Westend
Prof. Dr. Mamadou Diawara
Grüneburgplatz 1
60323 Frankfurt am Main

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International Conference on Azmari in Ethiopia "From Ambivalence to Acceptance"

07.01.2012 - 09.01.2012 in Hildesheim

Universität Hildesheim
Center for World Music
Prof. Dr. Wolfgang Bender
Marienburger Platz 22
31141 Hildesheim
Tel.: 0171 1984499

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International Field School "Evolution of Lake Malawi Biodiversity"

17.04.2012 - 08.05.2012 in Cape Maclear/Malawi

Universität Frankfurt am Main
Abteilung Phylogenie und Systematik
Institut für Ökologie, Evolution und Diversität
Prof. Dr. Annette Klussmann-Kolb

Universität Gießen
Spezielle Zoologie und
Biodiversitätsforschung
Dr. Christian Albrecht

Universität Frankfurt am Main
Zentrum für interdisziplinäre
Afrikaforschung (ZIAF)
Dr. Stefan Schmid

University of Malawi, Zomba
Biology Department
Chancellor College
Dr. Dylo Foster Pemba
MALAWI

Ansprechpartner:
Universität Frankfurt am Main
Abteilung Phylogenie und Systematik
Institut für Ökologie, Evolution und Diversität
Prof. Dr. Annette Klussmann-Kolb
Postfach 11 19 32
60054 Frankfurt
Tel.: 069 798 24719
Fax: 064 798 24820

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Investigation of the role of trypanolytic factor (TLF) genes in the control of trypanaosome infection in humans (Dr. Mathurin Koffi)

Bewilligung: 26.09.2011 Laufzeit: 2 Jahre

Bernhard-Nocht-Institut
für Tropenmedizin (BNI), Hamburg
Sektion Medizinische Mikrobiologie
Abteilung für Immunologie
Prof. Dr. Bernhard Fleischer
Postfach 30 41 20
20324 Hamburg
Tel.: 040 42818 401
Fax: 040 42828 400
Homepage: http://www.bni-hamburg.de

University of Abobo-Adjamé, Abidjan
URES Daloa
Dr. N'Goran Mathurin Koffi
Daloa
ELFENBEINKÜSTE

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Female genital schistosomiasis and HIV-1 infection in Lower Moshi, Kilimanjaro Tanzania (Dr. Elia John Mmbaga)

Bewilligung: 25.07.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

In many regions of the world, both schistosomiasis and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection are endemic. Recent epidemiologic, immunologic and pathophysiologic data suggest that Female Genital Schistosomiasis (FGS), a special form of urinary schistosomiasis due to infection with the trematode Schistosoma haematobium, may be a risk factor for HIV infection. Both HIV and schistosomiasis infections are highly prevalent in Tanzania with a reported high prevalence of FGS of about 75% in the Kilimanjaro region. Despite the high morbidity caused by FGS and the seemingly high role of FGS in HIV transmission, only limited number of studies based on selected groups of patients has been published making it difficult to associate FGS with HIV transmission. In addition, few available population-based studies on the subject have been cross-sectional in design hence failed to conclude on the cause-effect relationship between FGS and HIV. In Tanzania, no study has been conducted to explore this relationship and examine various reproductive health complications resulting from FGS. This project is therefore set to determine the magnitude, clinico-pathological characteristics, reproductive health complication and the role of FGS in the transmission of HIV in lower Moshi, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

Muhimbili University of Health
and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam
Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
Dr. Elia John Mmbaga
Dar es Salaam
TANSANIA
Tel.: +255 7142 13524

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Auswahlkonferenz "Postdoctoral Fellowships in the Social Sciences in Sub-Saharan Africa"

17.02.2012 - 21.02.2012 in Bamako, Mali

Universität Frankfurt am Main
Zentrum für interdisziplinäre
Afrikaforschung (ZIAF)
Campus Westend
Prof. Dr. Mamadou Diawara
Grüneburgplatz 1
60323 Frankfurt am Main

Universität Frankfurt am Main
Zentrum für interdisziplinäre
Afrikaforschung (ZIAF)
Dr. Stefan Schmid
Grüneburgplatz 1
60323 Frankfurt am Main
Tel.: 069 798 32097
Fax: 069 798 32098
Homepage: http://www.ziaf.uni-frankfurt.de/

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Agricultural use and vulnerability of small wetlands in East Africa - extension

Bewilligung: 07.07.2011 Laufzeit: 2 Jahre

During the first project phase, some 160 wetlands were inventoried in four representative landscapes in Kenya and Tanzania. Different wetland types and determining factors of land use were investigated, and biophysical characteristics and their dynamics were quantified. Five main wetland categories were identified and their attributes described. Five PhD-theses summarize the findings and provide the basis to evaluate future agricultural production potential and vulnerability toward human interventions. During the second phase, biomass accumulation of (natural) vegetation, and the yield and yield-limiting factors of major crops will be assessed through field experiments, remote sensing and simulation modeling approaches in prototypic wetlands with different histories and intensities of land use. A model assessing the potential and vulnerability of major wetland types will be developed and used to extrapolate production potential of natural vegetation and field crops at regional level. The findings are seen to guide decision making on agricultural use or protection of the region's wetlands. Three post-docs will conduct the studies under the guidance of senior scientists from the University of Dar es Salaam, the National Museum of Kenya and the University of Bonn.

Universität Bonn
Institut für Nutzpflanzenwissenschaften
und Ressourcenschutz INRES
Bereich Pflanzenernährung
Prof. Dr. Mathias Becker

University of Dar es Salaam
Department of Geography
Prof. Dr. Salome Misana
TANSANIA

National Museums of Kenya (NMK), Nairobi
Prof. Dr. Helida Oyieke
KENIA

Universität Bonn
Institut für Nutzpflanzenwissenschaften und
Ressourcenschutz (INRES)
Prof. Dr. Matthias Langensiepen

Ansprechpartner:
Universität Bonn
Institut für Nutzpflanzenwissenschaften
und Ressourcenschutz INRES
Bereich Pflanzenernährung
Prof. Dr. Mathias Becker
Karlrobert-Kreiten-Straße 13
53115 Bonn
Tel.: 0228 73 4001
Fax: 0228 73 2489

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Kick-Off-Workshop "Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme in the Engineering Sciences in Sub-Saharan Africa"

27.10.2011 - 29.10.2011 in Stuttgart

Universität Stuttgart
Institut für Energiewirtschaft und Rationelle
Energieanwendung
Abteilung Systemanalyse und Erneuerbare Energien
Dr. Ludger Eltrop
Hessbruehlstr. 49a
70565 Stuttgart
Tel.: 0711 685 87816
Fax: 0711 685 87873
Homepage: http://www.ier.uni-stuttgart.de

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Internationale Sommerschule "Development and International Economics"

24.10.2011 - 11.11.2011 in Accra, Ghana

Universität Bochum
Fakultät für Wirtschaftswissenschaft
Lehrstuhl für Internationale
Wirtschaftsbeziehungen
Prof. Dr. Matthias Busse
Postfach
44780 Bochum
Tel.: 0234 32 22902
Fax: 0234 32 14520
Homepage: http://economics.rub.de/nc/ls/internationale-wirtschaftsbeziehungen/team.html

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Use of sugarcane bagasse in biodigesters energy production for domestic and commercial use among resource poor in the sugar belts of Western Kenya

Bewilligung: 19.04.2011 Laufzeit: 1 Jahr 6 Monate

Supply of energy from the expensive and limited sources such as hydrometric plants to rural areas where commerce and industry is still at its low and have been a major hindrance for development of these rural areas in Kenya. Sustainable generation and use of biogas energy from cheap abundantly available sugarcane waste bagasse would create opportunities for employment creation, income generating activities and eventually help in combating extreme poverty experienced in these areas. Currently, bagasse is burned as a solid biofuel into charcoal at small-scale levels, but converting it into biogas would allow the energy containedin it to be used in a variety of activities such as lighting, cooking, driving small village based mills and even transport fuel. In this project, field research by constructing, processing, testing and analyzing the quality of biogas from different sugar belts in order to determine different rates of flow and plant uptake of bagasse will be carried out. Linkages to existing up-scaled biogas plants, markets and gas cylinder processing units will be carried out to ensure sustainability of the system.

Universität Kassel
Fachbereich 11: Ökologische Agrarwissenschaften
Fachgebiet Argartechnik
Prof. Dr. Oliver Hensel
Nordbahnhofstr. 1 a
37213 Witzenhausen
Tel.: 05542 98 1225
Fax: 05542 98 1520
Homepage: http://www.uni-kassel.de/agrar/agt/

Egerton University, Njoro, Nakuru
Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness
Management Department
Dr. George Owuor
P.O. Box 536
Egerton
KENIA
Tel.: + 254 722 831 634

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Water loss management strategies for developing countries

Bewilligung: 19.04.2011 Laufzeit: 1 Jahr 6 Monate

Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for about 23% of the global total population without access to improved water resources (UNDP, 2003). While the rest of the world is on track in meeting the millennium target, Africa and particularly Sub-Saharan Africa is not likely to meet this target (WHO and UNICEF Report, 2010).This research will essentially focus on Water Loss Management Strategies, which are based on attempts to increase service coverage at the same time reducing UFW to accepted levels (e.g., less than 10% as suggested by Lahlou, 2001). The research aims to cover the whole water supply service chain. Inclusively, the study will investigate technical aspects and explore adaptability of certain water loss management strategies to the Zimbabwean context.

University of Zimbabwe
Harare
Civil Engineering Department
Eugine Makaya
MP 167 Mt Pleasant
Harare
SIMBABWE
Tel.: 00263 4 293 2416

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Research for the development of business-oriented solutions for faecal sludge treatment in Dakar (Senegal)

Bewilligung: 19.04.2011 Laufzeit: 1 Jahr 6 Monate

Most urban areas of developing countries rely on latrine based sanitation. However, ongoing latrine programmes aimed at achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) still lack provision for the emptying, haulage, safe treatment and reuse of faecal sludge (FS) (Koné et al, 2007).This project aims to introduce a new paradigm in sanitation by making excreta and wastewater management profitable for city planners, and thereby increase access to sanitation. To achieve this, the overall objective is to develop local capacity and create the know-how for operating FSTPs that produce safe biosolids and forage for enhancing urban and peri-urban agricultural productivity.

University Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar
Institut des Sciences de l'Environnement
Dr. Mbaye Mbéguéré
P.O. 26469
Dakar
SENEGAL

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Improving food security in low-income countries (FSLC): focusing on decentralized waste composting and urban agriculture in Côte d'Ivoire

Bewilligung: 19.04.2011 Laufzeit: 1 Jahr 6 Monate

In the drive to meet the Millennium Development Goals (MDG) for water and sanitation as well as food security, all efforts and resources are needed, particularly to achieve significant improvement in lives of low -income cities in developing countries. Among others, productive waste management is a relevant technology for increasing business opportunity and at the same time improving food security. The goal of this project is to contribute to increased food security and improved resource use in the District of Yamoussokro (Côte d'Ivoire) by production and use of compost obtained by decentalized urban organic waste treatment.

Université de Cocody, Abidjan
UFR STRM
Laboratoire des Sciences et techniques
de l'Eau et de l'Environnement (LSTEE)
Dr. Kouassi Dongo
B. P. 582
ABIDJAN
ELFENBEINKÜSTE
Tel.: 00225 22483803

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Development of an appropriate technology for production of electric porcelain insulators from ceramic minerals in Uganda

Bewilligung: 19.04.2011 Laufzeit: 1 Jahr 6 Monate

Porcelain insulators are among the major materials used in the electricity industry. The annual growth of electricity demand in Uganda is estimated to be at 7-9% [1]. This correspondingly applies to the insulation material consumption. The production of porcelain insulators using local materials has the benefits of saving the country of foreign exchange, earning the country foreign exchange through exports,employment creation for the local people, technology transfer,expansion of the tax base and utilization of the national raw material reserves. This research therefore seeks to establish a technical basis for the production of porcelain insulators in Uganda.

Universität Kassel
Fachbereich 11: Ökologische Agrarwissenschaften
Fachgebiet Argartechnik
Prof. Dr. Oliver Hensel
Nordbahnhofstr. 1 a
37213 Witzenhausen
Tel.: 05542 98 1225
Fax: 05542 98 1520
Homepage: http://www.uni-kassel.de/agrar/agt

Makerere University, Kampala
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Faculty of Technology
Dr. Peter Wilberforce Olupot
P.O. 7062
Kampala
UGANDA
Tel.: 00256 701658768
Fax: 00256 414531048

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Koordination und Abwicklung des Junior African Fellowship-Programms in den Ingenieurwissenschaften

Bewilligung: 19.04.2011 Laufzeit: 2 Jahre

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Summer School on Integrated Water Resources Management

Bundesanstalt für Gewässerkunde BfG, Koblenz
Dr. Johannes Cullmann

Addis Ababa University
Dr. Semu A. Moges
ÄTHIOPIEN

International Water Management Institute, Addis Ababa
Dr. Ing. Seleshi Bekele
ÄTHIOPIEN

University of Dar es Salaam
Water Resources Engineering Department
Dr. Tumaini Anderson Kimaro
TANSANIA

Ansprechpartner:
Bundesanstalt für Gewässerkunde BfG, Koblenz
Dr. Johannes Cullmann
Am Mainzer Tor 1
56068 Koblenz
Tel.: 0261 1306 5313
Fax: 0261 1306 5422

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Capturing the carbon sequestration value of coffee agroforestry systems in Uganda (Dr. Susan Tumwebaze)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Climate change (CC) is one of the greatest global environmental and economic challenges. The impacts of CC are predicted to be more harmful in developing countries than others. Coffee farmers in Uganda are likely to experience effects of CC through reduced yields. However, they can play a vital role in mitigating CC if trees are integrated in their farms. Coffee agroforestry systems (CAS) can contribute to carbon sequestration; nonetheless, there is inadequate information to confirm their potential in this function in Uganda. This study aims at assessing and valuing the carbon sequestration potential of CAS and provides recommendations for improving institutional ability of local communities to benefit from carbon trading. The study will be conducted in four regions in Uganda. Shade tree biomass will be determined using existing models while destructive sampling will be used to obtain above and below ground biomass of coffee shrubs and converted into carbon. The expected outputs include: amount and economic value of carbon sequestered by CAS; biomass models for shade trees, Arabic and Robust coffee; and a procedure for aggregating carbon from different farms.

Makerere University, Kampala
Faculty of Forestry & Nature Conservation
Lecturer
Dr. Susan B. Tumwebaze
Kampala
UGANDA
Tel.: + 256 754 742 065

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Screening polyextremophiles for biomineralization of organochlorine pesticide stockpiles in Kenya (Dr. Benson Wamalwa)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Stockpiled obsolete pesticides (mainly organochlorine compounds) are a serious and growing public health and environmental danger confronting nearly every country in Africa. This project proposes to develop novel biotechnological alternatives for the safe and sustainable disposal of recalcitrant obsolete pesticides. A "search, discover and harness" approach is envisaged where microorganisms that can tolerate multiple environmental extremes (polyextremophiles) will be screened systematically for new biological activities and biochemical pathways for the detoxification, degradation or complete mineralization of environmentally persistent organochlorine pesticides. This project is expected to catalogue new microbial taxa, discover novel biodegradative routes for recalcitrant chemical pesticides, and create new biotechnologies for pesticide stockpile elimination using 'mined' polyextremophile genes. In doing so, the project will have harnessed natural resources to generate information beyond existing knowledge and understanding as well as new tools for bioengineering cheap non-polluting bioprocesses for the rapid mineralization of organochlorine pesticides.

University of Nairobi
CBPS
Laboratory of Biochemistry
Dr. Benson Wamalwa
Postfach 30197
Nairobi 00100 GPO
KENIA
Tel.: + 254 729 903 792

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Propagation, cultural practices, genetic and biochemical diversity of two medicinal plant species, Croton membranaceus and Cryptolepis sanguinolenta (Dr. Naalamle Amissah)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Croton membranaceus and Cryptolepis sanguinolenta are two medicinal plant species with restricted distribution in the West Africa region that are on the verge of extinction. Root extracts of Croton membranaceus are used to treat measles and urine retention problems, while Cryptolepis sanguinolenta have been found to have anti-malarial, anti-microbial and anti-hyperglycemic properties. The goal of this project is to identify populations with high bioactive compounds, assess genetic diversity and develop propagation and cultivation protocols for their domestication. The concentration of bioactive compounds and percentage composition of the active ingredients in the plants will also be determined. Anti-malaria activities of C. sanguinolenta bioactive compounds would be assessed. The effectiveness of C. membranaceus decoctions will be determined using the MTT assay protocol. It is expected at the end of this research that natural habitats of C. membranaceus and C. sanguinolenta with high concentration of the bioactive compounds would be identified. Propagation, cultural and management practices for the above mentioned species would be developed.

University of Ghana, Accra
Department of Crop Science
Dr. J. Naalamle Amissah
Legon
GHANA
Tel.: + 233 285 331 362

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Potential of endophytic fungi for controlling pests and diseases in traditional cacao agroforests of Cameroon (Dr. H. Bisseleua)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Cacao plantations form an integral part of the rural landscape in southern Cameroon and provide an important source of income for smallholder farmers, specifically at the pristine forest/agricultural area interface. In this project we address the question how removal of shade trees and intensification of cacao production interact with endophytic fungi, known to induce resistance against pests or diseases on cacao trees. We will use cacao plots along a rainfall gradient and manipulative experiments using shaded and non-shaded cacao trees to address the question how these endophytic fungi may be manipulated for biological control services, to be implemented in certification standards for "rainforest friendly" cocoa production. Specifically we will test the antagonistic potential of strains of these endophytes against the most prevailing problems, the cacao mirids and the black pod disease (BPD). Furthermore, we will manipulate ants to act as spore disseminators on the cacao trees. The new management technologies will be successfully disseminated by way of pilot demonstrations, farmer group meetings, radio programmes, leaflets and posters, national and international meetings, websites and manuals, as well as through local and international publications.

National Agricultural Institute
for Development (IRAD)
Nkolbisson Research Centre
Cacao and Coffee Programme
Dr. Daghela Hervé Bertin Bisseleua
Yaoundé
KAMERUN
Tel.: + 237 22 23 35 38

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Domestication and promotion of ackee in West Africa (Dr. Marius Ekue)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Ackee (Blighia sapida) is a woody perennial multipurpose fruit tree species native to the Guinean forests of West Africa and candidate food tree species for domestication. Despite its high potential, the species was neglected and little formal research has been carried out in the region. But recently, key knowledge necessary for the elaboration of a clear domestication strategy have been addressed for Benin. The next steps to move forward with that strategy is the collection, evaluation and deployment of germplasm, the development of low cost vegetative propagation techniques as well as the improvement of the processing, storage and packaging of arils in order to improve both market values and revenues. Additionally, a widely untapped gene pool exists in different countries with considerable variation in potential commercially important traits. In light of the rapidly eroding germplasm, the latter has to be collected, conserved and utilized in tree improvement programmes. The current study will address the challenges mentioned above to move forward with the domestication of ackee in Benin and its three neighbouring countries Togo, Burkina Faso and Nigeria.

University of Abomey-Calavi
Faculty of Agronomic Sciences
Laboratory of Applied Ecology
Dr. Marius R. M. Ekue
P.O.B. 01 BP 526
ABOMEY-CALAVI
BENIN

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Modelling succession-disturbance dynamics for improving socio-ecological sustainability of savanna ecosystem: A case study of Park W, transboundary biosphere reserve in West Africa (Dr. Patrice Savadogo)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Savannas occupy around 20% of the earth's land-surface and are subject to disturbance by fire, grazing and tree cutting. These disturbances if not well managed in the predicted global climate change context may contribute to ecosystem health dysfunction and consequently challenge the sustenance of ecological services and products demanded by society. This project aims at understanding the separate and synergistic role of fire and herbivory disturbance and climate change on the savanna dynamic. We will emphasize the use of quantitative approaches to investigate the mechanisms structuring the savanna ecosystem, including statistical models and computer simulation models. Better understanding of these disturbances regimes is crucial for change prediction, identification of adaptations strategies, and increasing knowledge to support multiple-use management of the savanna. The knowledge gained will be used to formulate management recommendations in the countries sharing the transboundary biosphere reserve (Park W) in West Africa.

Centre National de la Recherche
Scientifique et Technologique (CNRST), Ouagadougou
Institute for Environment and
Agricultural Research
Department Forest Production
Dr. Patrice Savadogo
Ouagadougou 03
BURKINA FASO
Tel.: + 226 50 33 40 98
Fax: + 226 50 31 50 03

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Assessment of the effects of chemical pollution on pollinating bats and bees - Strategies for maintaining ecosystem services and honey production (Dr. Bruno Djossa)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Agriculture is the dominant activity for about 80% of the households in Benin. Cash crops such as cotton generate substantial income for 54% of the population. Frequently, the production of cash crops is accompanied by significant disturbances to natural ecosystems and the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. These substances may affect native plants as well as the pollinators and seed dispersers on which many plants depend for reproduction. Population declines of important mutualistic animals (bees and bats) may negatively impact cultivated crop plants and natural ecosystems. Our study will be carried out in two different agro-climatic zones: Pendjari Biosphere Reserve in the extreme north-western and Dogo-Kétou forest reserve in the central region of Benin. We will quantify pesticide residues in nectar, fruits, honey, and in tissues of bats and bees. Additionally we will monitor plant visitation by bats and bees and analyze pollen grain extracted from honey taken from experimental bee hives. Our study will help to preserve ecosystem services such as the crucial pollination services of both bats and bees as well as the honey production by bees. Ultimately, our project will contribute to development mitigation strategies to reduce the impact of agricultural chemicals on key ecosystem services.

Université d'Abomey-Calavi du Benin, Cotonou
Faculty of Agronomic Sciences
Dr. Bruno A. Djossa
Abomey-Calavi
BENIN
Tel.: + 229 95 45 62 83

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Determination of groundwater vulnerability to climate variability and contamination in the Central Kenya Rift (Dr. Lydia A. Olaka)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

Overexploitation and climate variability are a threat to potable water resources. Within the central Kenya rift (CKR), the groundwater and Lake Naivasha are thought to have an effective connection that keeps this surficially closed lake fresh. Increasing demand for fresh water for municipal, industrial and agricultural supplies has lead to decline in water budgets and climate change is expected to exacerbate the situation. The Water Resources Management Authority of Kenya lists this aquifer as 'strategic' to supplying significant amounts of water with no available alternatives. Fluctuations of groundwater in space at sub annual scales are not yet established. To improve mitigation efforts a sound knowledge of sub annual recharge and storage is needed. We propose to develop a fully coupled soil water-groundwater-surface water model for the Naivasha basin and simulate the behaviour of the aquifers under different climatic scenarios. This three year study (2011 - 2014) will be carried out in collaboration with various partners; from the industry, water resource management and Academic research. The expected results will enhance sound water allocation measures and enable proper calibration of hydrological budget models.

University of Nairobi
Geology Department
College of Physical and Biological sciences
Dr. Lydia A. Olaka
P.O.B. 30197
00100 NAIROBI
KENIA

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Ecological and molecular studies on the conservation and use of Madagascar's endangered freshwater fishes (Dr. Roger Daniel Randrianiaina)

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

As Madagascar belongs to the poorest countries in the world, the need of the local people to use natural resources as livelihoods is essential. Despite the importance of fishes both in terms of biodiversity conservation (endemic fish are the most threatened group of animals in Madagascar) and for the local economy and livelihood, there is a very limited expertise among Malagasy biologists so far. To resolve this problem, this project is aimed to provide more knowledge on Madagascan ichthyofauna and the health of the water system, to understand the interaction between different components of aquatic fauna, and to provide knowledge about the economic value of fishes as livelihood. To attend these goals, three purposes will be realized: (1) molecular assessment of diversity and habitat assessment, (2) population studies of fishes, and (3) study of the anthropogenic impact on them. The first two purposes will be used for developing a high-quality Index of Biological Integrity (IBI) for streams in several water sheds of Madagascar, which combined with the third purpose will also be useful for decisions on the elaboration of conservation areas.

University of Antananarivo
Faculty of Sciences
Department of Animal Biology
Dr. Roger Daniel Randrianiaina
P.O.B. 906
ANTANANARIVO 101
MADAGASKAR

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Koordination und die Abwicklung des Junior-Fellowship Programms

Bewilligung: 09.02.2011 Laufzeit: 3 Jahre

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Informationen

zu dieser Initiative:

Allgemeines Merkblatt & Checkliste

Bislang durchgeführte Themenworkshops

Bislang geförderte Projekte:
Bewilligungen 2011
Bewilligungen 2010
Bewilligungen 2009
Bewilligungen 2008
Bewilligungen 2007
Bewilligungen 2006

Guidelines for Research in Partnership with Developing Countries (pdf, 80 kB; Swiss Commission for Research Partnership with Developing Countries)

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