Dr. Desalegn Begna , Ethiopian Policy Studies Institute , Ethiopia
Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa, a seasoned researcher and academician, has over 30 years of experience in the fields of veterinary sciences, animal health, and beekeeping. With a PhD in Rearing of Special Economic Insects from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, he has made significant contributions to livestock development and honeybee epidemiology in Ethiopia and beyond. Currently serving as the Head of the Livestock Policy Study Section at the Policy Study Institute in Ethiopia, he has led numerous research projects and policy interventions. Dr. Desalegn has worked as an Assistant Professor at Ambo University and has held various senior positions, including director at the Oromia Agricultural Research Institute. His expertise spans animal genetics, beekeeping, livestock policy, and the development of sustainable agricultural systems. Dr. Desalegn is recognized for his leadership in promoting agricultural research and policy in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa. 🐝📚🌍
Publication Profile:
Orcid
Strengths for the Award:
Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa demonstrates outstanding qualifications for the Research for Best Researcher Award based on his extensive experience, educational background, and significant contributions to the fields of animal health, beekeeping, and livestock policy. Below are the key strengths that make him an ideal candidate for this award:
- Deep Expertise and Academic Credentials:
Dr. Desalegn holds a PhD in Rearing of Special Economic Insects from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, alongside a Master’s degree in Tropical Bees and Beekeeping from Utrecht University. His qualifications in animal science and beekeeping are exceptional and make him a leading expert in livestock and honeybee epidemiology.
- Extensive Professional Experience:
With over 30 years of experience in Ethiopia and other developing countries, Dr. Desalegn has gained profound expertise in livestock production systems, policy analysis, and veterinary services. His experience spans across public-private partnerships, animal health services, and capacity-building for agricultural institutions, including his leadership in over 20 technical assistance assignments.
- Leadership in Research and Policy:
As Head of the Livestock Policy Study Section at the Policy Study Institute in Ethiopia, Dr. Desalegn has been instrumental in developing livestock sector policies, identifying critical development agendas, and proposing innovative solutions to livestock challenges in Ethiopia. His leadership in policy research and strategy development has significantly influenced the sector.
- Impactful Publications:
Dr. Desalegn has contributed widely to scientific literature, with publications in renowned peer-reviewed journals, such as the Journal of Proteome Research, PLoS ONE, and Advances in Agriculture. His work, including research on honeybee health, livestock genetics, and beekeeping systems, has provided valuable insights into the sustainable development of agriculture in Ethiopia and the broader Horn of Africa.
- Commitment to Capacity Building and Development:
Dr. Desalegn has successfully led several capacity-building initiatives, particularly in agricultural and livestock sectors. His role in EU-funded programs and regional projects like Horn of Africa Regional Environment Centre (HoAREC) further exemplifies his commitment to fostering agricultural resilience in the region.
Areas for Improvement:
While Dr. Desalegn’s accomplishments are impressive, there are a few areas where further growth could enhance his profile:
- Greater International Collaboration:
Though Dr. Desalegn has significant experience within Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa, expanding collaborations with international research institutions and global agricultural initiatives could enhance the reach and impact of his work.
- Public Engagement and Outreach:
Dr. Desalegn could improve the visibility of his research by engaging more in public science communication. This could include writing policy briefs for a broader audience, hosting webinars, and participating in international forums and conferences to present his research findings.
- Interdisciplinary Research:
Given his expertise in animal health, beekeeping, and livestock policy, fostering interdisciplinary collaborations between environmental scientists, economists, and social scientists could bring a more comprehensive approach to addressing challenges in livestock systems and sustainability.
Education:
Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa’s academic journey is marked by his deep commitment to agricultural science and animal health. He holds a PhD in Rearing of Special Economic Insects from the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, where he conducted pioneering research on insect ecology and their role in agriculture. Dr. Desalegn also earned an MSc in Tropical Bees and Beekeeping in Tropical Climates from Utrecht University, the Netherlands, where he further specialized in honeybee management and ecology in tropical environments. His academic foundation began at Haramaya University in Ethiopia, where he completed his BSc in Agriculture, Animal Sciences. Through his education, Dr. Desalegn has built a robust understanding of livestock management, beekeeping, and the environmental impacts of agricultural practices. His research is focused on the intersection of agriculture, policy, and sustainable development in Ethiopia and the wider Horn of Africa. 🎓🐝🌱
Experience:
Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa brings over 30 years of professional experience in veterinary sciences, animal health, and beekeeping, with a specific focus on developing countries like Ethiopia. He has extensive expertise in managing livestock production systems, delivering technical assistance in animal health services, and shaping livestock policy. His work spans across various sectors, including agro-pastoral and crop-producing regions, where he has contributed to strategy development, capacity-building, and the design of livestock service delivery frameworks. Notably, he has led over 20 technical assistance assignments, many focused on enhancing regulatory frameworks and epidemiological surveillance systems in the agricultural and livestock sectors. Dr. Desalegn has also served as a senior researcher and director at Ethiopia’s Oromia Agricultural Research Institute. His leadership as a team leader in various EU-funded programs and his work with regional environmental institutions have cemented his reputation as an expert in livestock policy and agricultural development. 🐄🌾📊
Research Focus:
Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa’s research focus lies at the intersection of livestock policy, beekeeping, and agricultural development. He is particularly interested in sustainable livestock production systems, with an emphasis on agro-pastoral and pastoral systems in Ethiopia. His work explores strategies to improve livestock service delivery, animal health, and the socio-economic impacts of livestock development in rural settings. He has also conducted extensive research on honeybees, their ecology, and the indirect threats posed to them, such as desert locust infestations in Ethiopia. Dr. Desalegn’s research also delves into the genetics and breeding of livestock, focusing on improving local breeds for better productivity and resilience. Additionally, he is a leading figure in the development of policy solutions for the livestock sector, offering insights into livestock market structures and the challenges faced by honey producers in Ethiopia. His work aims to foster sustainable, productive, and resilient agricultural systems. 🐝📊💡
Publications Top Notes:
- The Indirect Threats of Desert Locust Infestation on Honeybees in Ethiopia (2022) – 🐝🌍
- Beekeeping Production System, Challenges, and Opportunities in Selected Districts of South Wollo Zone, Amhara, Ethiopia (2021) – 🍯🐝
- Ecology and Nest Structures of Ground-Nesting Stingless Bees in the High and Midlands of West Shewa Zone, Ethiopia (2021) – 🐝🏞️
- Honey Marketing, Structure and Conduct of Honey Market in Gozamen District, East Gojjam Zone, Amhara Region (2019) – 🍯💼
- Characterization of Beekeeping Systems and Honey Marketing in Eastern Zone Tigray, Ethiopia (2014) – 🐝📊
- Differential Expressions of Nuclear Proteomes Between Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Queen and Worker Larvae: A Deep Insight Into Caste Pathway Decisions (2012) – 🐝🔬
- Honeybee (Apis mellifera ligustica) Drone Embryo Proteomes (2011) – 🐝🧬
- Mitochondrial Proteins Differential Expression During Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Queen and Worker Larvae Caste Determination (2011) – 🐝🧬
- Proteomic Analysis of Honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) Pupae Head Development (2011) – 🐝🧪
- Proteome Comparison of Hypopharyngeal Gland Development Between Italian and Royal Jelly Producing Worker Honeybees (Apis mellifera L.) (2010) – 🐝🍯
Conclusion:
Dr. Desalegn Begna Rundassa is highly deserving of the Research for Best Researcher Award. His innovative research, leadership in policy development, and contributions to livestock and agricultural development in Ethiopia and the Horn of Africa are exemplary. His extensive academic background, coupled with over 30 years of professional experience, positions him as a leader in the field. With a continued focus on fostering international collaborations and public outreach, Dr. Desalegn is poised to make even greater contributions to agricultural research and policy, both in Africa and globally.