Tesfa Getachew | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Tesfa Getachew | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Debre Birhan Agricultural Research Center, Ethiopia

Tesfa Getachew Belayneh is an accomplished researcher specializing in feeds and animal nutrition, with over eight years of expertise in improving livestock productivity and nutrition. His work focuses on alleviating feed shortages, developing cost-effective ration formulations from locally available feed resources, and enhancing genetic improvement programs for Menz sheep. In his current role as an Associate Researcher at Debre Birhan Agricultural Research Center in Ethiopia, he leads research initiatives that aim to improve smallholder farmers’ livelihoods, promote job creation, and empower women and youth, particularly through sheep fattening programs. His efforts also include reducing methane emissions via improved feeding practices, advancing grazing land management, and enhancing the nutritional quality of crop residues. Tesfa’s contributions to the field are widely recognized for their practical applications and positive impact on the local agricultural economy.

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Education

Tesfa Getachew holds an MSc in Feeds and Animal Nutrition from Bahir Dar University (Nov 2020 – Dec 2022), where he graduated with an excellent academic record, achieving a perfect score of 4.0/4.0. Prior to this, he earned a BSc in Animal Science from Wollo University (Oct 2012 – Jul 2015), with a GPA of 3.85/4.0. His educational journey reflects a strong foundation in animal nutrition and science, which he has built upon throughout his career to drive innovations in livestock feeding and management practices.

Experience

Tesfa’s professional career spans various roles at the Debre Birhan Agricultural Research Center. Since December 2022, he has been serving as an Associate Researcher in Feeds and Animal Nutrition. Prior to this, he held positions as an Assistant Researcher-II (June 2020 – June 2022), Assistant Researcher-I (June 2018 – June 2020), and Junior Researcher (June 2016 – June 2018). In these capacities, he has conducted extensive research on animal feed and nutrition, focusing on improving livestock production through better feed utilization, enhanced forage development, and grazing land management. He has also led several collaborative projects with international and local organizations, including ICARDA, ILRI, and SNV, to improve animal nutrition and support the agricultural sector.

Research Interests

Tesfa’s primary research interests are in animal nutrition, particularly the formulation of least-cost rations using locally available feed resources, and the genetic improvement of livestock, specifically Menz sheep. His work also focuses on the development of sustainable agricultural practices, such as improving forage production, optimizing grazing land management, and reducing methane emissions in livestock systems. He is committed to improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and rural communities by providing training on feed formulation, livestock management, and entrepreneurship.

Awards

Tesfa has made significant contributions to the field of animal nutrition and has been recognized for his innovative approach to sustainable agricultural practices. He has led several successful projects aimed at improving livestock feeding systems and empowering farmers. Notably, his research on improved forage production and sheep fattening programs has been praised for its potential to transform the livelihoods of smallholder farmers in Ethiopia. His collaborative efforts with international organizations such as ICARDA and ILRI have further reinforced his standing in the agricultural research community.

Publications

Tesfa Getachew has published several research articles that have contributed to the body of knowledge in animal nutrition and livestock management. Some of his notable publications include:

  1. Local Agro-industrial By-products Offer Feasible Options to Supplement Breeding Rams in Mixed Farming Systems of Ethiopia (2020)

  2. Substitution of Concentrate Mixture with Dried Brewery Spent Grains Improved Biological and Economic Performance of 50% Dorper×Menz Crossbred Sheep (2021)

  3. Effect of Substitution of Wheat Bran and Soya Bean Mixture with Dried Brewers’ Grains on Milk Yield and Composition of Crossbred Dairy Cows Fed Natural Pasture Hay as a Basal Diet (2021)

  4. Evaluation of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) Varieties for Biomass Yield and Herbage Quality Under Irrigation at Bakelo, North Shewa, Ethiopia (2022)

These publications have been well-received in scientific communities and have contributed to the practical application of animal nutrition strategies in Ethiopia and beyond. His research findings continue to influence both policy and practical approaches to animal feed and nutrition management in smallholder farming systems.

Conclusion

Tesfa Getachew’s career as a researcher in feeds and animal nutrition reflects a deep commitment to improving livestock productivity and supporting sustainable agricultural practices in Ethiopia. Through his research, he has developed innovative feeding solutions, contributed to the genetic improvement of Menz sheep, and empowered local farmers, particularly women and youth. His extensive experience, coupled with his academic excellence, has positioned him as a key figure in the field of animal nutrition. Tesfa continues to collaborate with national and international organizations, ensuring that his research not only advances scientific knowledge but also contributes directly to improving the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and the agricultural sector in Ethiopia. His dedication to the field of animal nutrition will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on agricultural research and development in the region.

 

Lidetewold Tsega | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Assist Prof Dr. Lidetewold Tsega | Animal Nutrition | Best Researcher Award

Academician/Researcher | Salale University | Ethiopia

Short Bio 📝

Dr. Lidetewold Tsega Dossegna is a distinguished Assistant Professor in Animal Nutrition at Salale University, renowned for his extensive contributions to the field of animal science. Born on November 28, 1986, in Woremo Wajitu, Ethiopia, Dr. Tsega has cultivated a career marked by academic excellence and a profound commitment to advancing livestock management and nutrition. His journey from a rural Ethiopian community to becoming a prominent academic figure illustrates his dedication to improving animal production systems through both teaching and research. Fluent in Amharic and English, he bridges local and international perspectives, enhancing his contributions to global animal nutrition discourse. His professional life is characterized by a blend of practical experience and academic scholarship, reflecting a deep-seated passion for enhancing livestock productivity and welfare. Dr. Tsega’s career is a testament to his commitment to education, research, and practical application in the field of animal science, making significant strides towards sustainable animal husbandry practices in Ethiopia and beyond.

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Education 🎓

Dr. Tsega’s educational trajectory is marked by a series of significant academic achievements that underscore his expertise in animal science. He began his formal education at Woremo Elementary School, where he laid the foundation for his future academic pursuits. Moving on to Arbegnoch Secondary School for his junior high years and then Hailemariam Mamo Preparatory School for his senior high education, Dr. Tsega demonstrated exceptional academic potential. In 2008, he graduated with a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Animal Production from Haramaya University, achieving a noteworthy CGPA of 3.63 out of 4.00. This solid academic foundation was further strengthened by his Master of Science (M.Sc.) degree in Animal Production, awarded by Hawassa University in 2016, where he attained a CGPA of 3.84 out of 4.00, and his thesis was rated “Very Good.” Dr. Tsega’s academic journey reached its pinnacle with his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Animal Nutrition, also from Hawassa University, in 2024. His doctoral research, which earned an “Excellent” rating, was marked by a CGPA of 3.95 out of 4.00, highlighting his dedication and expertise in the field of animal nutrition.

Experience 💼

Dr. Tsega’s professional experience is extensive and varied, showcasing his adaptability and expertise across different roles and institutions. Since October 2016, he has served as a Lecturer at Salale University, where he is responsible for teaching a range of courses including dairy cattle production, beef cattle production, animal management, and aquaculture. In this role, Dr. Tsega not only imparts theoretical knowledge but also engages in practical training for young entrepreneurs in Fitche town, focusing on dairy cattle production. He actively writes research proposals on topics such as milk handling, processing, and marketing, contributing valuable insights to the local dairy industry. Additionally, he provides mentorship to graduate students, guiding their research on beef production challenges and dairy cattle husbandry practices in the region.

Before his tenure at Salale University, Dr. Tsega worked as an Instructor at Agarfa Agricultural TVET College from October 2011 to October 2016. In this position, he taught various animal science courses, developed comprehensive curricula for fishery and aquaculture, and prepared training modules on poultry production, animal husbandry, and calf rearing. His contributions included writing proposals for establishing sheep and goat farms and maintaining fish ponds, demonstrating his commitment to enhancing agricultural education and practices.

Dr. Tsega’s career began with practical experience as an Expert of Animal Input Supply at Merhabet Woreda Agricultural and Rural Development Office from July 2010 to October 2011. Here, he distributed agricultural inputs to farmers, supported them during cultivation, and supervised development agents. He also served as an Expert in Early Warning and Rapid Response Food Security at Geze Gofa Woreda Agricultural and Rural Development Office from December 2008 to July 2010, where he led a team in providing relief food, supervising safety net program beneficiaries, and training development agents.

Research Interests 🔬

Dr. Tsega’s research interests are centered on animal nutrition, with a focus on optimizing feed management and improving livestock production systems. His work aims to enhance the nutritional value of animal feed and address the challenges associated with animal husbandry. Dr. Tsega’s research explores various aspects of animal nutrition, including the use of alternative feed resources, feed supplementation strategies, and the impact of feeding practices on animal health and productivity. His research contributes to advancing knowledge in the field and provides practical solutions for improving livestock management. By focusing on innovative feeding practices and nutritional interventions, Dr. Tsega seeks to address the needs of farmers and enhance the overall efficiency of animal production systems.

Awards 🏆

Throughout his career, Dr. Tsega has received recognition for his academic achievements and contributions to the field of animal nutrition. His exceptional performance in his undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral studies has been acknowledged with high distinctions, reflecting his dedication and expertise. These accolades are a testament to his commitment to academic excellence and his significant contributions to advancing knowledge in animal nutrition. Dr. Tsega’s work continues to be recognized by his peers and the academic community, highlighting his impact on the field and his dedication to improving livestock management and nutrition.

Publications 📚

Dr. Tsega has made significant contributions to the field of animal nutrition through his research publications. His notable works include: