Sokoine University of Agriculture, has launched a four-year Research Project tilted “Mobility in Innovative Green Technologies for Climate Change Mitigation and Sustainable Bioeconomy (Mabadilishano ya Ubunifu wa Teknolojia Kijani Kukabili Mabadiliko ya Tabianchi kwa Uchumi Hai Endelevu) (MUTKKMTUHE)”. The major aim of the project is to advance knowledge of green technologies in Africa and increase scholars’ capacity in addressing climate change mitigation and sustainable bioeconomy. The project was launched on 26th April 2024 at the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. 

During the Launch, Prof. Japhet J. Kashaigili, the Director for Directorate of Postgraduate Studies, Research, Technology Transfer and Consultancy, praised the project coordinators winning the project and for a well-organized implementation plan such as that of bringing together stakeholders who are expected to provide the necessary cooperation in achieving project objectives. He also assured that the University management will provide all the necessary support needed for smooth implementation of the project.

The project will be implemented collaboratively by MOI University (Kenya), Mbarara University of Science and Technology (Uganda), Sokoine University of Agriculture (Tanzania ), Addis Ababa University (Ethiopia ), Institut Facultaire Des Sciences Agronomiques (Democratic Republic of Congo ) and Mendelova Univerzita V Brne (Czech Republic ).

Capacity building of 60 individuals (Students, Staff and Trainee) will be carried out during the mobility programme. Among them are 35 MSc students, 10 PhD Students, 8 trainee, and 7 Staff. The beneficiaries are categorized into target groups 1 and 2. Target group 1 (TG-I) will include students from INTERACT-Africa project hosting countries i.e., Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Ethiopia and Democratic Republic of Congo. Target group 2 (TG-II) will include students having obtained a degree from all other African countries, with priority being given to students from conflict-affected and disadvantaged countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, Sudan, Somalia, Mozambique and Algeria.

At Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA), the project is coordinated by Prof. Faith Mabiki (Department of Chemistry and Physics) and Dr. Richard Madege (Department of Crop Science and Horticulture). Speaking during the Launch, Prof. Faith Mabiki insisted that the project will promote opportunities for learning by strengthening the capacity building of higher education based on training and education in green chemistry, biology and information technology. This will develop a skilled workforce capable of implementing sustainable practices that could establish green technology businesses in Africa.

Dr. Richard Madege elaborated that the implementation of the project at SUA will focus on the development of a Bio fungicide fertilizer formulation for a cost effective ecofriendly innovation for management of soilborne plant diseases and soil fertility. The project is expected to find green solutions to crop diseases such as wilting diseases in tomato, egg plants, and spices in turn reducing the use of industrial chemicals to protect the health of consumer and biodiversity.
Further project information can be accessed at https://interactafrica.mu.ac.ke/