Marco Njana | Forest Ecology | Most Cited Paper Award

Dr. Marco Njana | Forest Ecology | Most Cited Paper Award

Researcher at Wildlife Conservation Society, Tanzania📖

Dr. Marco Andrew Njana is a distinguished forestry and natural resource management expert, serving as the lead personnel for Nature-Based Solutions at the Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Tanzania Country Program since 2020. He specializes in forest carbon accounting and large-scale forest carbon project development under Verra VCS and CCBS standards. His efforts focus on reducing deforestation in national forest reserves critical for biodiversity conservation. Previously, Dr. Njana worked with the Tanzania Forest Services Agency (TFS) and the National Carbon Monitoring Centre (NCMC), where he played a pivotal role in developing Tanzania’s first Forest Reference Emission Level (FREL), successfully submitted to the UNFCCC.

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Njana has authored more than 25 peer-reviewed articles, served as a reviewer for over 30 international journals, and contributed to numerous consultancy assignments on ecology and natural resource management.

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Education Background🎓

  • Ph.D. in Forestry (2015) – Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania
    Dissertation: Biomass estimation and carbon storage in mangrove forests of Tanzania
  • M.Sc. in Management of Natural Resources for Sustainable Agriculture (2008) – Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania
    Dissertation: Arborescent species diversity and stocking in the miombo woodland of Urumwa Forest Reserve and their contribution to livelihoods
  • B.Sc. in Forestry (2005) – Sokoine University of Agriculture, Tanzania
    Special Project: Impact of crop cultivation in the mangrove ecosystem – A case study of Rufiji Delta, Tanzania

Professional Experience🌱

Dr. Njana’s career highlights include his tenure as Assistant Director and Head of Monitoring Reporting and Verification (MRV) at the NCMC (2016–2018), where he led the preparation and successful UNFCCC submission of Tanzania’s FREL, positioning the country among the pioneers in Africa for REDD+ result-based mechanisms. At TFS, he managed mangrove forest ecosystems, and as the lead Nature-Based Solutions personnel at WCS, he oversees partnerships with government entities to combat deforestation and foster sustainable forest management.

Research Interests🔬

Dr. Njana’s research interests encompass:

  • Forest carbon accounting and REDD+ mechanisms
  • Mangrove forest ecology and management
  • Sustainable natural resource management
  • Biodiversity conservation
  • Climate change mitigation and adaptation

Author Metrics

  • Publications: 25+ peer-reviewed articles
  • Reviewer: Over 30 international journals, including Environmental Development, Ecological Indicators, and Journal of Environmental Management.
  • Citations: Acknowledged globally for contributions to forestry and carbon accounting research.
  • Consultancies: Led multiple high-profile ecological and natural resource management assignments across Tanzania.

Dr. Njana continues to shape sustainable forestry practices through cutting-edge research, impactful partnerships, and active contributions to global environmental initiatives.

Publications Top Notes 📄

1. Are miombo woodlands vital to livelihoods of rural households? Evidence from Urumwa and surrounding communities, Tabora, Tanzania

  • Authors: MA Njana, GC Kajembe, RE Malimbwi
  • Published in: Forests, Trees and Livelihoods, 22(2), 124-140
  • Year: 2013
  • Citations: 56
  • Highlights: This study investigates the dependence of rural households on miombo woodlands for their livelihoods. It emphasizes the socioeconomic and ecological significance of these woodlands, particularly in supporting daily household needs such as firewood, building materials, and food.

2. Mixed method approaches to evaluate conservation impact: Evidence from decentralized forest management in Tanzania

  • Authors: JF Lund, ND Burgess, SAO Chamshama, K Dons, JA Isango, MA Njana, et al.
  • Published in: Environmental Conservation, 42(2), 162-170
  • Year: 2015
  • Citations: 52
  • Highlights: This paper employs a mixed-methods approach to assess the outcomes of decentralized forest management policies in Tanzania. It provides critical insights into how these policies impact forest conditions and rural livelihoods, offering valuable lessons for conservation strategies.

3. Above-and belowground tree biomass models for three mangrove species in Tanzania: A nonlinear mixed-effects modelling approach

  • Authors: MA Njana, OM Bollandsås, T Eid, E Zahabu, RE Malimbwi
  • Published in: Annals of Forest Science, 73, 353-369
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 49
  • Highlights: This research develops biomass models for mangrove species, enhancing the accuracy of carbon stock assessments in mangrove ecosystems. The study’s nonlinear mixed-effects approach addresses spatial and species-specific variations.

4. Carbon stocks for different land cover types in Mainland Tanzania

  • Authors: EW Mauya, WA Mugasha, MA Njana, E Zahabu, R Malimbwi
  • Published in: Carbon Balance and Management, 14, 1-12
  • Year: 2019
  • Citations: 44
  • Highlights: The paper estimates carbon stocks across various land cover types, providing a comprehensive understanding of carbon distribution in Tanzania. It supports policymaking for climate change mitigation and sustainable land management.

5. Importance of tree basic density in biomass estimation and associated uncertainties: A case of three mangrove species in Tanzania

  • Authors: MA Njana, H Meilby, T Eid, E Zahabu, RE Malimbwi
  • Published in: Annals of Forest Science, 73, 1073-1087
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 42
  • Highlights: This work explores the role of wood density in improving the precision of biomass and carbon estimation models. It also addresses the uncertainties in biomass predictions, emphasizing the significance of species-specific parameters.

Conclusion

Dr. Marco Andrew Njana is an outstanding candidate for the Most Cited Paper Award. His extensive research, practical contributions to forestry and climate change mitigation, and leadership in conservation initiatives strongly support his nomination. While broadening international collaborations and adopting cutting-edge technologies could further enhance his research’s global impact, his existing work already stands as a remarkable contribution to sustainable forestry and livelihoods.

Vatis Christian Kemezang – Environmental economics – Best Researcher Award

Vatis Christian Kemezang – Environmental economics – Best Researcher Award

Mr. Vatis Christian Kemezang  distinguished academic and researcher in the field Environmental economics. He has also completed several professional development courses in scientific writing, statistical analysis, and the use of statistical software. Kemezang is a native French speaker, with a strong command of the English language, and is a member of several professional organizations, including the Network of Young Economists of the ECA. He is a respected researcher and educator in his field, and is well-known for his expertise in economics and sustainable development. In his free time, Kemezang enjoys traveling and learning about new cultures, and is passionate about finding ways to make a positive impact on the world.

🌐 Professional Profile

Educations📚📚📚

He is currently pursuing his PhD in Economics at the University of Douala in Cameroon. Prior to this, he completed his Master of Science in Monetary and Banking Economics in 2018, also at the University of Douala. His undergraduate studies led to a Bachelor of Science in Money, Banking, and Finance from the University of Dschang in 2015. His academic journey began with earning his Baccalaureate A4 in 2012 from Lycee Bilingue de Bépanda in Douala, Cameroon.

 

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

He has held various teaching positions in academia. Since 2019, he has been serving as a Lecturer at the Institut Universitaire des Grandes Écoles des Tropiques (IUGET), where his responsibilities include teaching courses in Banking and Finance, preparing and assessing exams, supervising students in their research projects, and participating in pedagogical projects and academic event organization.

In 2020, he also worked as a Lecturer at the Institut Catholique de Bafoussam (ICAB), where he taught courses in Capital Market and was involved in exam preparation and assessment.

Additionally, from 2020 to 2022, he served as a Part-time Lecturer at the Institut Universitaire de Technologie de Douala (IUT) in Cameroon. In this role, he taught courses in DUT, FI at the Department of GLT, facilitated seminars and practical work, monitored and evaluated students, and contributed to pedagogical projects and academic event organization.

 

CERTIFICATS

He has obtained several certificates covering a range of topics. In 2023, he completed a certificate on preparing an inventory of greenhouse gases under the Enhanced Transparency Framework by the FAO. In 2022, he earned a certificate from IDEP (CEA) on “The African Continental Free Trade Area: The Role Of Parliament and other non-state actors.” Further, he attended sessions on scientific article writing and scientific writing methodology and principles, including fraud detection tools, interpretation, and eliminating similarities. These sessions were conducted by the Institut de Recherche pour le Développement and the Transport and Applied Logistics Laboratory at the University of Douala, respectively.

Moreover, he has engaged in online learning through platforms like OpenClassrooms. He completed courses on various subjects such as initiating R language programming, creating clear and impactful statistical reports, inferential statistics, analyzing and modeling time series, and mastering the basics of probability. These certificates demonstrate his commitment to continuous learning and skill development in diverse areas related to his field.

📝🔬Publications📝🔬

1. Climate mitigation technology for holistic resource management in sub-Saharan Africa:
Impact on greenhouse gas emissions
Energy and Climate Change
2024-04 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1016/j.egycc.2024.100135
CONTRIBUTORS: Ivette Gnitedem Keubeng; Vatis Christian Kemezang
2. An insight on non-standard asset pricing: does COVID-19 matter in the crypto-asset
market?
SN Business & Economics
2024-02-07 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1007/s43546-023-00616-z
Part of ISSN: 2662-9399
CONTRIBUTORS: Prince HIKOUATCHA; Guillaume Tchoffo; Vatis Christian Kemezang;
Jules Roger Feudjo
3
3. Balancing short-term costs and long-term benefits: an analysis of the impact of
hydroelectric power generation on electricity prices volatility in Cameroon
Sustainable Energy Research
2024-02-05 | Journal article
DOI: 10.1186/s40807-024-00099-y
Part of ISSN: 2731-9237
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Vatis Christian Kemezang
4. Measuring market risk with GARCH models under Basel III: Selection and application
on German firms
SN Business & Economics
The revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Vatis Christian Kemezang ; Djou Ilaire, Ivette Keubeng Gnitedem
5. How energy transition and FinTech influence the income inequality in Sub-Saharan
Africa: Evidence from panel-corrected standard errors approach
Next Energy
The second revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Vatis Christian Kemezang
6. Balancing environmental sustainability and international trade: A dynamic analysis of
factors influencing renewable energy generation in Cameroon
Environment, Development and Sustainability
The revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Vatis Christian Kemezang
7. Reducing price volatility in Sub-Saharan Africa through agricultural productivity:
Evidence from a panel data analysis
Next Energy
The second revised manuscript is currently being under review
CONTRIBUTORS: Etienne Bienvenu Akono; Ivette Keubeng Gnitedem; Vatis Christian

Tizita Endale Elcho – Soil science Award – Best Researcher Award

Tizita Endale Elcho – Soil science Award – Best Researcher Award

Dr. Tizita Endale Elcho  distinguished academic and researcher in the field  Soil Science. She is a seasoned researcher specializing in the fields of land degradation, soil quality, and soil erosion, boasting over a decade of expertise in conducting thorough research, crafting insightful analyses, and publishing findings in reputable academic journals. Moreover, she brings more than six years of valuable experience in teaching and mentoring both undergraduate and postgraduate students, guiding them through the complexities of their theses.

During her tenure from 2014 to 2017, she assumed the role of laboratory coordinator at the College of Agriculture Science, Arba Minch University. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in overseeing the day-to-day operations of the laboratory, facilitating lecture demonstrations, and managing monitoring and evaluation processes.

Her proactive nature allows her to excel independently, showcasing a remarkable ability to stay motivated and meet deadlines even in demanding situations. With a practical mindset and a logical approach to problem-solving, she demonstrates a strong capability to perform efficiently, ensuring successful outcomes even under significant pressure.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

She holds a Doctor of Bioscience Engineering (PhD) degree from KU Leuven and Ghent University in Belgium, earned between 2018 and 2023. Her doctoral research focused on assessing the soil degradation status and processes of agricultural fields across an elevation gradient in the Southern Ethiopian Rift, culminating in her PhD thesis.

Prior to her doctoral studies, she completed her Master of Science (MSc) in Soil Science at Haramaya University in Ethiopia from 2012 to 2014, graduating with a commendable CGPA of 3.64 out of 4.00. Her commitment to academic excellence was evident during her undergraduate years at Bahir Dar University in Ethiopia, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Natural Resource Management from 2006 to 2008, graduating with distinction and achieving a CGPA of 3.46 out of 4.00.

Employment History

She served as a Soil and Water Conservation Expert at the Gamo Gofa Zone Agriculture and Rural Development Office in Arba Minch from 2008 to 2010. In this role, she played a crucial part in scheduling and conducting training sessions for local communities, particularly farmers, on the implementation of soil and water conservation practices. Additionally, she supervised developmental agents across various Kebeles within the Arba Minch district agriculture and rural development office, ensuring the effective dissemination of knowledge and practices. Her responsibilities extended to mobilizing communities to embrace innovative technologies such as water harvesting, watershed management, and integrated soil fertility management, contributing significantly to sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Lecturer and laboratory coordinator at the College of Agricultural Sciences, Arba Minch  University, Arba Minch (2014 – 2023)

Achievements and responsibilities:

  • Conduct basic and applied research with several teams on soil-related issues.
  • Advise both undergraduate and postgraduate students on their final-year research.
  • Train developmental agents and natural resources management experts with the collaboration of Mercy Corps.
  • Lecture several courses such as Fundamental Soil Science, Integrated Soil Fertility Management, Land Degradation and Rehabilitation, Integrated Watershed Management, Research Methodology, Biodiversity Conservation, and Environmental Impact Assessment.
  • Organize and facilitate research symposiums at the university level.
  • Coordinate all laboratory activities of the college.
  • Prepare laboratory guidelines for the relevant bodies of the colleges including departments.
  • Prepare activities and financial plans as well as reports for the college laboratory office.
  • Arranging laboratory equipment and supplies, guide and follow up technical assistance in laboratory activities.
📝🔬Publications📝🔬

Diptanshu Gaur- Development Economics – Best Researcher Award

Diptanshu Gaur- Development Economics

Dr. Diptanshu Gaur distinguished academic and researcher in the field  Development Economic .He  currently working on inequalities in educational achievements by exploring the role of individual capabilities and cultural capital in improving the outcomes.

🌐 Professional Profiles

Educations📚📚📚

He completed his academic journey with a Ph.D. in Management from the Indian Institute of Management Rohtak in 2023. Prior to his doctoral studies, he pursued a Master of Commerce (M.Com) in Economic Administration at the P.G School of Commerce, University of Rajasthan, from 2014 to 2016. He laid the groundwork for his academic pursuits with a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons.) in Economic Administration and Financial Management from Commerce College, University of Rajasthan, which he attained from 2011 to 2014.

He has been actively contributing to academic literature with his research endeavors. His publications span various topics, showcasing his interdisciplinary expertise. For instance, in a collaborative effort with colleagues, he explored the dynamics of educational achievement disparities, delving into the impact of individual capabilities and social identities. Another notable contribution lies in the realm of sustainable waste management, where he co-authored a guide tailored to emerging economies. Furthermore, his research extends to areas like education policies, COVID-19 stimulus packages, technology-driven responsiveness during crises, and the application of netnography in digital government research. His work reflects a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges and advancing knowledge in diverse fields, ranging from management and economics to education and technology.

 

 Conferences/Workshops

He actively participated in several prestigious international conferences, where he presented his research findings on critical socio-economic issues. At the 1st PAN IIT International Management Conference in 2018, hosted by IIT Roorkee, he discussed the growth of Indian business communities and families from an institution-based perspective. Subsequently, at the Human Development & Capabilities Association Conference in 2019, held at University College London, he examined the inequality of opportunities in educational achievements, focusing on the influence of individuals’ social networks. The following year, he presented at the 7th PAN IIM World Management Conference in 2019, organized by IIM Rohtak, shedding light on inequalities in educational achievements and the impact of individuals’ social relationships. Furthermore, his engagement continued at the Human Development & Capabilities Association Conference in 2020, held in Auckland, New Zealand, where he further explored the pervasive issue of inequalities within society. Through his active involvement in these conferences, he demonstrated a commitment to advancing scholarly discourse and addressing pressing societal challenges.

 

Academic Projects

He undertook various academic projects, showcasing his commitment to practical research and societal impact. In 2021, under the auspices of the Government of Haryana, he conducted an oxygen supply audit at PGIMS, Rohtak, contributing to the healthcare infrastructure’s efficiency and preparedness. Additionally, he evaluated the PRASHAD Scheme in 2021, commissioned by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, to assess its effectiveness in promoting tourism and cultural heritage. Furthermore, in 2017, he collaborated with the Jammu & Kashmir Police to study public confidence in policing, aiming to enhance law enforcement strategies and community relations. Through these projects, he demonstrated his ability to apply academic knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering positive change and informed policymaking.

Administrative Experience

He has amassed a diverse range of experiences across entrepreneurship, academia, teaching, and administrative roles, showcasing his versatility and dedication to various endeavors. As the founder of Bliss The Unisex Salon Chain since 2021, and co-founder of MohThe Eternal Dhaga since 2022, he demonstrates his entrepreneurial acumen and leadership in the business sector. Additionally, his academic engagements include teaching courses on Macroeconomics at Birla Institute of Management Technology in 2024, Financial Markets at Jindal Global Business School in 2023, and Indian Economy & Culture to underprivileged Kashmiri students in 2021, reflecting his commitment to education and social empowerment.

His administrative roles, including serving as the FPM Representative at IIM Rohtak and as a founding member of the Swaniti Policy Club, highlight his organizational skills and involvement in academic initiatives. Proficient in various software tools such as MS Office, STATA, SPSS, NVivo, R, and Gephi, he possesses a strong analytical and technical aptitude. His research interests span diverse fields such as social inequalities, educational achievements, capability approach, cultural capital, and the Indian economy, underscoring his interdisciplinary approach to academia.

Furthermore, he actively contributes to the academic community through referee activities for esteemed publications and conferences, including Social Indicators Research, Academy of Management Conference, and PAN IIM World Management Conference. His professional journey also includes experiences as a team member at Purna Shiksha, where he conducted field visits, developed teaching content, and taught classes for immigrant children, as well as a Credit Risk Analyst at Zouk Loans, where he assessed loan applicants’ risk profiles and contributed to client acquisition strategies. Through these varied experiences, he has demonstrated his commitment to personal and professional growth, along with a dedication to making positive contributions to society.

 

Publication

 

Wenfu Peng -Vegetation dynamic monitoring- Best Researcher Award

Wenfu Peng -Vegetation dynamic monitoring

Prof Dr. Wenfu Peng  distinguished academic and researcher in the field of Vegetation dynamic monitoring. In 2002, he embarked on a postgraduate journey, undertaking Master’s studies at the College of Resources and Environment at Sichuan Normal University. Building on this foundation, he pursued a Doctorate, completing his PhD from the State Key Laboratory of Geological Disaster Prevention and Geological Environmental Protection at Chengdu University of Technology in 2009. Throughout his academic trajectory, he demonstrated a steadfast commitment to advancing his understanding of geography and related disciplines.

Eduvation

He began his educational journey in 1985, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Geography from the Department of Geography at Sichuan Normal University, where he dedicated himself to the study of geographic principles and phenomena. After a brief hiatus, from 1992 to 1995, he continued his academic pursuits at Southwest University (formerly Southwest Normal University), further expanding his knowledge in the field.
Professional Profiles:

 

Academic Positions:

Since July 2005, he has held the esteemed position of Professor at the School of Geography and Resource Science at Sichuan Normal University, where he has made significant contributions to academia. His expertise encompasses a range of teaching activities, primarily focusing on postgraduate courses such as “Understanding and Analysis of Remote Sensing Image Science.” Additionally, he imparts his knowledge to undergraduate students through courses like “GIS Spatial Analysis,” “GIS Principles,” “Territorial Planning,” and other related subjects. Throughout his tenure, he has been dedicated to fostering a comprehensive understanding of geographical and spatial sciences among his students, leaving an indelible mark on the academic landscape.

Research Overview:

Throughout the years, he has actively engaged in a multitude of research projects, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in various domains. From 2014 to 2017, he spearheaded the National Natural Science Foundation of China Project titled “Maintenance Mechanism of Land Ecological Security in Chengdu Plain based on LUCC Disturbance” (Project No. 41371125), delving into the intricate dynamics of land use and ecological security. Subsequently, from 2018 to 2020, he directed his efforts towards the Humanities and Social Science Planning Project of the Ministry of Education (Project No. 17YJA850007), contributing valuable insights to the intersection of social sciences and education.

In the earlier years, his involvement in key projects at Sichuan Normal University included the 2013-2015 Key Cultivation Project, “Ecological Security Research of Chengdu Plain Based on LUCC” (Project No. 13ZDL03), and the 2014-2015 Sichuan Provincial Department of Education Project, “Research on Ecotourism Development Model of West Sichuan Plateau Based on GIS” (Project No. LYC13-11). His diverse expertise also extended to national initiatives, such as the National Science and Technology Major Project’s special topic on “Water Pollution Control and Treatment” (Project No. 2009ZX07106-004-01-02), specifically focusing on the spatial and temporal distribution of water resources and salinity in the Bosten Lake Basin. Additionally, his contributions were integral to the National Science and Technology Support Program’s topic on “Research on Rural Housing Planning, Design, and Construction Standards” (Project No. 2008BAJ08B09-5), concentrating on the formulation of standards for village and township rural community planning. His extensive involvement in these projects reflects his dedication to advancing scientific understanding and addressing critical issues in various fields.

Awards

In recognition of his notable contributions to the field, he was honored with the third prize of the Sichuan Science and Technology Progress Award in 2011 for his exemplary project titled “Research on Urban Land Use Change and Its Ecological Environment Effect Based on RS & GIS.” Beyond his research endeavors, he actively engages in social contributions by serving as a review expert for various international journals, demonstrating his commitment to advancing scholarly discourse and maintaining rigorous standards within the academic community.

Moreover, he has assumed significant roles in shaping academic and scientific landscapes. His responsibilities include serving as an evaluation expert for the Degree Center of the Ministry of Education, China, contributing to the assessment of educational standards. Additionally, he has lent his expertise as a science and technology plan evaluation expert for the Provincial Department of Science and Technology in Sichuan Province, playing a pivotal role in evaluating and shaping regional scientific initiatives. Further showcasing his multifaceted involvement, he serves as a technical expert for territorial ecological restoration support at the Provincial Department of Natural Resources, Sichuan Province, underscoring his commitment to environmental sustainability and ecological well-being. Through these diverse roles, he continues to make a meaningful impact in academia, research, and the broader scientific community.

Publication

1.Quantifying urban expansion and its driving forces in Chengdu, western China  – 2023                                                                  Wang, G.Peng, W.Zhang, L., …Shi, J.Wang, L.

2. Quantifying the impacts of natural and human factors on changes in NPP using an optimal parameters-based geographical detector -2023

3.Vegetation EVI changes and response to natural factors and human activities based on geographically and temporally weighted regression-2023

4. Assessment of Land Ecological Security from 2000 to 2020 in the Chengdu Plain Region of China                                    Zhang, L.Peng, W.Zhang, J. – 2023

5. Estimate of population density and diagnosis of main factors of spatial heterogeneity in the metropolitan scale,     western China  Wang, G.Peng, W.Zhang, L. -2023

6. Spatiotemporal variations and driving mechanisms of vegetation coverage in the Wumeng Mountainous Area, China