Soul Washaya | Rangeland Management | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Soul Washaya | Rangeland Management | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Soul Washaya | Rangeland Management – Chair Person at Great Zimbabwe University, Zimbabwe

Washaya Soul is an accomplished agricultural scientist and researcher from Zimbabwe, specializing in animal nutrition, livestock production systems, and rangeland management. Over the course of his career, he has contributed significantly to the development of sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in relation to smallholder farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa. His work spans a range of topics, including the nutritional evaluation of indigenous livestock breeds, the role of feed technologies in livestock production, and the assessment of various foraging patterns in arid regions. Currently serving as a Chairperson at Great Zimbabwe University, he is actively involved in both research and academic leadership. Washaya has been recognized for his commitment to advancing agricultural sciences through multiple awards, including the Outstanding Reviewer Award from Animal Nutrition in 2024.

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Education:

Washaya Soul’s educational background provides a solid foundation for his extensive career in agricultural sciences. He completed his studies in Zimbabwe and has contributed significantly to the development of the agricultural sector through his research and teaching roles. His academic journey has involved in-depth research in the areas of animal health, nutrition, and sustainable agricultural practices, particularly focusing on the interactions between livestock and their environment. He has supervised numerous postgraduate students and has been involved in the development of curricula that address the needs of smallholder farmers in Africa.

Experience:

Washaya’s professional experience is extensive, having held various leadership and academic positions. Currently, he serves as the Chairperson at Great Zimbabwe University, where he leads research and development projects in agricultural sciences. Previously, he was a Unit Coordinator at Africa University and Bindura University of Science Education. In addition to his academic roles, Washaya has provided expertise to various research projects, particularly in livestock and agriculture, including grants such as the Fodder Legume Trees project in Eastern Cape, South Africa. His practical experience extends beyond the classroom, contributing to advisory roles for national agricultural committees and development programs.

Research Interests:

Washaya’s primary research interests are centered on animal production systems, with a particular emphasis on livestock nutrition, sustainable farming practices, and the optimization of indigenous breeds for improved agricultural output. He has a strong focus on the impact of climate and environmental factors on livestock health and productivity, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. His work on goats, cattle, and smallholder dairy farming in Zimbabwe and South Africa aims to develop strategies that enhance productivity while maintaining environmental sustainability. He is also keen on exploring the use of native grasses, legumes, and fodder crops to improve the nutritional value of animal diets.

Awards:

Washaya’s dedication to advancing the field of agricultural sciences has been recognized through several prestigious awards. In 2024, he was honored as an Outstanding Reviewer by the Animal Nutrition journal, a testament to his expertise and contribution to the scientific community. He has also been involved in various collaborative research projects, such as the RCZ Smart Poultry Project, where he played a significant role as a PhD supervisor and agricultural expert. His leadership in academic and professional circles further emphasizes his commitment to improving livestock production systems and sustainability in African agriculture.

Publications:

  1. Wesly Bvirwa, Godfrey Mutowo, Soul Washaya. (2025). Phenotypic characterization of indigenous cattle breeds in Zimbabwe. Journal of Applied Animal Research (under review) 🐄
  2. Washaya S, Bvirwa W. (2025). Application of growth models to Boer x Mashona and Kalahari x Mashona goats under extensive semi-arid conditions. Tropical Animal Health and Production (under review) 🐐
  3. Ngorio U, Mudzengi C, Nhovoro T, Washaya S. (2024). Genotypic parameters for Gellaper sheep under arid extensive production system. Animal (submitted) 🐑
  4. Washaya S, Mupangwa J., Mapfumo L, Muchenje V. (2023). Selective grazing and native grass nutritional evaluation in drought-stricken arid rangelands. Rangeland and Ecology Management (submitted) 🌾
  5. Mapfumo L, Mupangwa J, Scholtz MM, Muchenje V, Washaya S. (2025). Foraging patterns and volatile fatty acid production levels from Boran and Nguni cows in drought-stricken arid rangelands. Journal of Applied Animal Research. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2025.2492772] 🐄
  6. Bvirwa Wesly, Washaya Soul. (2025). Characteristics of indigenous goats and the effects of crossbreeding on goat performance for rural livelihoods sustainability. Small Ruminant Research. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2025.107495] 🐐
  7. Washaya Soul, Bvirwa Wesly, Washaya Dorine D. (2023). Goat production perspectives in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). A review. Spanish Journal of Animal Science (accepted) 🐐

Conclusion:

Washaya Soul is an exceptional academic and researcher, whose contributions to animal nutrition and sustainable farming systems are transforming the agricultural landscape in sub-Saharan Africa. With numerous publications, leadership roles, and research grants, he has established himself as a leading figure in agricultural sciences. His work continues to influence policy, improve livestock production practices, and enhance the livelihoods of smallholder farmers. Through his academic leadership and research, Washaya has significantly advanced the understanding of livestock systems in resource-constrained environments.