Birhanu Zemadim Birhanu | Irrigation & Water Management | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Agri Scientist

Dr. Birhanu Zemadim Birhanu | Irrigation & Water Management | Best Researcher Award

Senior Researcher | International Water Management Institute | Ghana

Birhanu Zemadim Birhanu is a distinguished research scientist and Deputy Country Representative at the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) in Ghana, with over 23 years of experience across Eastern, Southern, Western, and Central Africa, as well as Asia. He holds a PhD and MSc in Water Resources Engineering from the University of Dar es Salaam and a BSc in Civil Engineering from Bahir Dar University. His key research areas include sustainable farming systems, water and land management, multifunctional landscapes, climate actions, and research for impact. Dr. Birhanu has made significant contributions through over 25 peer-reviewed journal articles, nine book chapters, multiple technical reports, and several conference presentations, highlighting innovative practices in integrated watershed management, agroecological intensification, and sustainable intensification of mixed farming systems. He has played a pivotal role in major projects like Africa RISING, ResComm Tanzania, and Nature+ Solutions, advancing sustainable and inclusive agricultural development. His exemplary contributions have been recognized by several awards, such as Best Scientific Paper (ICRISAT Research Program) and Outstanding Resource Mobilizer. He holds a certificate in Leadership Essentials from Cornell University. Additionally, Dr. Birhanu serves as an editorial contributor to various scientific journals, supervises graduate research, and fosters knowledge exchange and capacity building in the water management domain. His expertise extends to hydrological modeling, GIS and remote sensing applications, and participatory research methods, contributing extensively to climate-resilient agricultural practices in sub-Saharan Africa.

Profiles: Google Scholar | ORCID 

Featured Publications

1. Awulachew, S. B., Bekele, S., Awulachew, S., & Molden, D. (2013). The Nile River Basin.
Cited 111 times.

2. Tadese, M. T., Kumar, L., Koech, R., & Zemadim, B. (2019). Hydro-climatic variability: A characterisation and trend study of the Awash River Basin, Ethiopia. Hydrology, 6(2), 35.
Cited 81 times.

3. Akinseye, F. M., Ajeigbe, H. A., Traore, P. C. S., Agele, S. O., Zemadim, B., … (2020). Improving sorghum productivity under changing climatic conditions: A modelling approach. Field Crops Research, 246, 107685.
Cited 79 times.

4. Melesse, A. M., & Abtew, W. (2016). Landscape dynamics, soils and hydrological processes in varied climates. Springer International Publishing.
Cited 66 times.

5. Schmidt, E., & Zemadim, B. (2015). Expanding sustainable land management in Ethiopia: Scenarios for improved agricultural water management in the Blue Nile. Agricultural Water Management, 158, 166–178.
Cited 58 times.

Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Agri Scientist

Prof. Sue Walker | Agrometeorology | Best Researcher Award

Principal Researcher Agromet | ARC-NRE & UFS | South Africa

Prof. Sue Walker is an Affiliated Emeritus Professor of Agrometeorology at the University of the Free State and a Principal Specialist Researcher in Agrometeorology at the Agricultural Research Council, South Africa. She holds a Ph.D. in Plant Physiology from the University of California, Davis, and advanced diplomas in Project Management and Innovation & Design Thinking. Prof. Walker’s research focuses on the development of climate services for agricultural systems, climate-smart agriculture, crop-climate modeling, and adaptation strategies for smallholder farmers in semi-arid regions. She has authored over 131 peer-reviewed scientific articles and 40 book chapters, contributing significantly to areas like water-energy-food nexus, crop modeling, and the application of seasonal forecasts in agriculture. Her work includes notable projects such as the “Climate-Wise Women” initiative and the “Rain for Africa” project. Prof. Walker has received several prestigious awards, including a Fulbright Scholarship, a South African National Research Foundation B3-rating, a fellowship with the South African Society of Crop Production, and the Bram Fischer Oxford-South Africa Award. She has served as Chair of the World Meteorological Organization's OPAG on Agrometeorological Services and as a representative to WMO-CAgM and ICID Working Groups. Additionally, she serves on the Editorial Committee of the South African Journal of Plant and Soil. Her work emphasizes participatory rural appraisal methods, decision support tools for farmers, and the integration of climate services into agricultural development strategies. With extensive global experience from over 54 countries, she remains a leading expert in building resilience against climate variability in the agricultural sector. She has 3039 citations from 2600 documents across 115 publications, with an h-index of 30.

Profiles:  Google Scholar | ORCID | Scopus

Publications 

1. Kumssa, D. B., Joy, E. J. M., Ander, E. L., Watts, M. J., Young, S. D., Walker, S., ... (2015). Dietary calcium and zinc deficiency risks are decreasing but remain prevalent. Scientific Reports, 5(1), 10974.

2. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Ogindo, H. O. (2005). A simulation model of cereal–legume intercropping systems for semi-arid regions: I. Model development. Field Crops Research, 93(1), 10–22.

3. Tsubo, M., Walker, S., & Mukhala, E. (2001). Comparisons of radiation use efficiency of mono-/inter-cropping systems with different row orientations. Field Crops Research, 71(1), 17–29.

4. Gandure, S., Walker, S., & Botha, J. J. (2013). Farmers' perceptions of adaptation to climate change and water stress in a South African rural community. Environmental Development, 5, 39–53.

5. Tesfaye, K., Walker, S., & Tsubo, M. (2006). Radiation interception and radiation use efficiency of three grain legumes under water deficit conditions in a semi-arid environment. European Journal of Agronomy, 25(1), 60–70.

Alebachew Shumye Moges – Water and Soil Management – Best Researcher Award

Published on by Agri Scientist

Alebachew Shumye Moges - Water and Soil Management - Best Researcher Award

Ben Gurion University of the Negev - Israel 

AUTHOR PROFILE

ORCID

SCOPUS

GOOGLE SCHOLAR 

SUMMARY

Alebachew Shumye Moges is a dedicated PhD student in Hydrology and Water Quality at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Israel. With over a decade of academic and professional experience, he has demonstrated expertise in water resources, environmental sustainability, and hydrological modeling. He has held leadership and teaching roles, including Department Head and Lecturer at Debre Berhan University, Ethiopia. His work integrates hydrometeorological data, geospatial analysis, and advanced modeling tools to address water resource challenges. Alebachew is actively involved in publishing scholarly articles, mentoring students, and contributing to interdisciplinary projects focused on water conservation and environmental rehabilitation.

EDUCATION

Alebachew holds a Ph.D. in Hydrology and Water Quality from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev (ongoing), an M.Sc. in Water Resource and Irrigation Engineering from Arba Minch University, and a B.Sc. in Water Resources and Irrigation Management from Debre Berhan University. His academic journey is rooted in hydrological sciences and resource management, preparing him for complex research and development initiatives. Through rigorous academic training and applied field research, he has built a robust foundation in environmental modeling, irrigation systems, and watershed analysis, contributing to sustainable water management in Ethiopia and beyond.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE


With progressive roles from Assistant Lecturer to Department Head at Debre Berhan University, Alebachew has built a multifaceted career. As a Lecturer, he conducted independent hydrology research, mentored students, and secured research funding. His tenure as Department Head involved strategic planning, faculty supervision, and departmental operations. He is currently a Ph.D. student at Ben-Gurion University, focusing on hydrological modeling and flood analysis. His experience spans academia, project management, and technical research, often collaborating with international experts. Alebachew’s professional contributions reflect strong leadership in education and a deep commitment to solving real-world water resource challenges.

RESEARCH INTEREST


Alebachew’s research centers on hydrology, soil and water conservation, flood modeling, and irrigation performance. He is particularly focused on rainfall-runoff simulation, infiltration processes, geospatial assessment of soil degradation, and statistical analysis of hydrological data. His interest lies in improving the understanding and management of water systems in vulnerable environments. By integrating traditional hydrological approaches with modern tools such as remote sensing and machine learning, he aims to develop sustainable solutions to water scarcity, soil erosion, and watershed degradation—issues that are critical to both rural development and environmental conservation.

AWARD AND HONOR

Alebachew’s academic advancements and leadership positions reflect a highly respected profile in his field. Being accepted into a prestigious Ph.D. program at Ben-Gurion University with active involvement in impactful research projects is a testament to his scholarly merit. His co-authorship in high-impact journals and collaboration with international experts further validate his recognition. Moreover, leading a university department and contributing to national development projects in Ethiopia highlights the trust placed in his expertise and professional capabilities.

RESEARCH SKILL


Alebachew is proficient in physical-based hydrological modeling, Python programming, GIS and remote sensing, and machine learning applications. He effectively uses these tools for flood regulation studies, irrigation efficiency evaluation, and watershed degradation mapping. His analytical abilities extend to data collection and management, spatial modeling, and scientific reporting. He has applied these skills in collaborative research, policy assessment, and environmental rehabilitation projects. His technical aptitude complements his academic rigor, enabling him to deliver insights that influence water management practices and regional development strategies.

PUBLICATIONS

  • Title: Evaluation of canal water conveyance and on-farm water application for a small-scale irrigation scheme in Ethiopia
    Author(s): A. Shumye, P. Singh
    Journal: International Journal of Water Resources and Environmental Engineering

  • Title: Identification of suitable rainwater harvesting sites using geospatial techniques with AHP in Chacha Watershed, Jemma Sub-Basin Upper Blue Nile, Ethiopia
    Author(s): A.Y. Gebremedhn, Y.S. Getahun, A.S. Moges, F. Tesfay
    Journal: Air, Soil and Water Research

  • Title: Assessment of irrigation performance trends using selected comparative indicators over consecutive periods: a case study of the Koga Irrigation Scheme in the Amhara region
    Author(s): D. Tegegne, M.T. Damtie, A. Shumye
    Journal: Irrigation and Drainage

  • Title: Geospatial based soil loss rate and land degradation assessment in Debre Berhan Regio-Politan city, Upper Blue Nile Basin, Central Ethiopia
    Author(s): Y.S. Getahun, F. Tesfay, A.B. Kassegne, A.S. Moges
    Journal: Geomatics, Natural Hazards and Risk

  • Title: Evaluate the effectiveness of soil and water conservation interventions in the upper Awash Basin, Ethiopia
    Author(s): A.S. Moges, S.A. Wondimagegn, Y.S. Getahun
    Journal: World Water Policy

CONCLUSION


Alebachew Shumye Moges is a rising researcher in the field of water resource management and hydrology. With extensive academic, teaching, and research experience, he contributes meaningful solutions to environmental challenges. His cross-disciplinary skills in modeling, GIS, and policy evaluation position him as a valuable asset to global sustainability initiatives. Alebachew continues to build an impactful academic profile through international research collaborations, high-quality publications, and student mentorship. His ongoing doctoral research promises further contributions to the science of water quality and conservation, making him a key figure in hydrological research and development.