Prof.Dr. Mercy Manyuchi | Bio-Fertilizers - Director at SustainableTech Environmental Management Company, Zimbabwe
Prof. Dr. Eng. Mercy Manyuchi is a distinguished chemical engineer and academic leader with a rich portfolio in sustainable engineering. With extensive experience in academia, research, innovation, and leadership, Prof. Manyuchi has contributed significantly to the fields of waste valorisation, bioenergy, and environmental sustainability. Currently serving as Professor Extraordinarius at UNISA and former Visiting Professor at the University of Johannesburg, Prof. Manyuchi has held several high-impact academic and consultancy roles. Recognized globally for contributions to sustainability, this profile highlights a strong foundation in engineering education, groundbreaking research initiatives, and impactful publications that support the global sustainability and circular economy agenda.
Professional Profile
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Education
Prof. Manyuchi holds a Doctor of Technology in Chemical Engineering from Cape Peninsula University of Technology, complemented by an MScEng from Stellenbosch University and a BEng from the National University of Science and Technology, Zimbabwe. Additionally, executive leadership training was completed through an EMBA at Bindura University and an Executive Diploma at the Zimbabwe Institute of Management. This educational trajectory highlights a strong blend of technical and managerial competencies, positioning Prof. Manyuchi as a dynamic leader in the intersection of engineering, research, and sustainable development.
Professional Experience
Prof. Manyuchi’s professional career spans over a decade of service in higher education, research, and consulting. Academic appointments include tenure at Harare Institute of Technology and a multi-level visiting professorship at the University of Johannesburg. Industry experience includes roles at ZimChem Refiners and Nestlé Zimbabwe. In leadership, Prof. Manyuchi directed departments, academic programs, and consultancy firms focused on sustainability. These roles were pivotal in leading engineering education reforms, developing environmental technologies, and managing cross-disciplinary teams. Their unique experience merges academic scholarship with industrial application, making valuable contributions to engineering practice and societal development.
Research Interest
Prof. Manyuchi’s current research focuses on the water-energy-food nexus and its alignment with sustainable development goals. Specialized areas include waste-to-energy technologies, biomass valorisation, biochar production, wastewater treatment, and circular economy innovations. Collaborative projects span local and international platforms, addressing global challenges through innovative green technologies. Their research also explores low-cost environmental engineering solutions for developing regions. By fostering interdisciplinary collaborations, Prof. Manyuchi aims to bridge scientific research and policy to promote climate resilience and sustainable urban development. The overarching objective is to engineer eco-efficient systems that benefit both society and the environment.
Award and Honor
Prof. Manyuchi has been recognized with numerous prestigious awards and fellowships. These include the Women Corporate Directors Award (2023), Green Talents Fellowship (Germany), Japanese Agricultural Researchers Award (2016), and the Presidential Research Award (Zimbabwe). Notably, Prof. Manyuchi has been a Tony Elumelu Foundation grantee and a World Energy Council Future Energy Leader. Many other accolades reflect contributions to entrepreneurship, engineering excellence, and sustainable innovation. These honors demonstrate a global appreciation of Prof. Manyuchi’s efforts in advancing environmental engineering and shaping future-ready solutions for global sustainability challenges.
Research Skill
Prof. Manyuchi is adept in experimental design, techno-economic assessments, process optimization, and life cycle analysis related to chemical and environmental engineering. Key skills include biomass valorisation, bioenergy systems modeling, and development of sustainable waste management technologies. Proficiency in supervising postgraduate research, conducting interdisciplinary projects, and publishing in high-impact journals showcases an ability to translate complex scientific findings into practical applications. Additional competencies include technology transfer, vermicomposting innovation, and environmental impact assessment. These skills are foundational to Prof. Manyuchi’s mission of developing technologies that contribute to cleaner, safer, and more resource-efficient communities.
Publications
Muisa, N., Nhapi, I., Ruziwa, W., & Manyuchi, M.M* (2020). Utilization of alum sludge as adsorbent for phosphorus removal in municipal wastewater: A review. Journal of Water Process Engineering.
Chaukura, Manyuchi, M.M* N., Gwenzi, W., & Tawenga, N. (2016). Biosorbents for the removal of synthetic organics and emerging pollutants: Opportunities and challenges for developing countries. Environmental Development.
Phiri, Manyuchi, M.M*. (2013). Vermicomposting in solid waste management: A review. International Journal of Scientific Engineering and Technology.
Manyuchi,M.M*, Phiri, A., Muredzi, P., & Chitambwe, T. (2013). Comparison of vermicompost and vermiwash bio-fertilizers from vermicomposting waste corn pulp. World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology.
Manyuchi M.M*, CMEM. (2018). Potential to use municipal waste bio char in wastewater treatment for nutrients recovery.
Conclusion
Prof. Dr. Eng. Mercy Manyuchi exemplifies a rare combination of academic brilliance, practical innovation, and leadership in the domain of sustainable chemical engineering. From impactful research and transformative teaching to international collaborations and industry contributions, Prof. Manyuchi has consistently championed green technologies and environmental resilience. With a forward-thinking approach, the work continues to inspire new solutions in waste valorisation, climate adaptation, and circular economy systems. As a mentor, researcher, and policy advocate, Prof. Manyuchi remains at the forefront of global sustainability efforts, building a legacy grounded in science, service, and societal impact.