Simion Matsvai | Agriculture Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Simion Matsvai | Agriculture Economics | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Simion Matsvai, Great Zimbabwe University, Zimbabwe

Dr. Simion Matsvai is a senior lecturer at Great Zimbabwe University, specializing in Applied Economics, including Financial, Agricultural, Environmental, Development, and Health Economics. With over 10 years of academic and consultancy experience, he holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from the University of Fort Hare. He has contributed to several national and international research projects, focusing on economic development, natural resources, and gender in budgeting. His expertise includes econometrics and data analysis using tools like STATA, R, and SPSS. Currently, he serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Walter Sisulu University. ๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ“Š

 

Publication Profile

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Academicย 

Dr. Simion Matsvai holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics from the University of Fort Hare (2016-2020), further strengthening his expertise in the field. He also earned a Master of Commerce degree in Industrial Strategy and Trade Policy from Great Zimbabwe University (2011-2012). Additionally, Dr. Matsvai completed his BSc Honors in Economics at the University of Zimbabwe, graduating in 2003 and 2006. His extensive academic background underpins his dedication to research and teaching in various branches of economics. ๐ŸŽ“๐Ÿ“š๐ŸŒพ๐Ÿ’ผ

 

Work Experience

Dr. Simion Matsvai is currently a Senior Lecturer at Great Zimbabwe University, where he has been teaching since February 2013. He lectures postgraduate modules such as Advanced International Finance, Advanced Macroeconomics, and Econometrics, while supervising dissertations. At the undergraduate level, he teaches Development Economics, Macroeconomics, Environmental Economics, and more. Additionally, Dr. Matsvai serves as a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at Walter Sisulu University (2024-2025). Previously, he worked as an Agribusiness Development Specialist at Intercountry Peoples Aid (IPA) from 2010 to 2013. ๐Ÿ“š๐Ÿ’ผ๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿซ

 

Consultancy Experience

Dr. Simion Matsvai has been involved in various consultancy projects across Zimbabwe. In 2024, he contributed as a co-researcher for Great Zimbabwe University’s project on Devolution, Natural Resources, and Economic Development in Masvingo. He also worked on the 2024 National Budget’s female-focused analysis with Citizens in Southern Africa (CIASA). Other projects include the review and rebranding of Zimbabwe’s cooperative model (2022-2023), the Zimbabwe Youth Development and Economic Empowerment baseline study in 2021, and the development of procurement and finance manuals for the World Food Programme โ€“ Namibia. ๐Ÿ“๐Ÿ“Š๐ŸŒ๐Ÿ’ผ

 

Research Focus

Dr. Simion Matsvaiโ€™s research primarily revolves around applied economics, with a strong emphasis on Financial Economics, Agricultural Economics, and Development Economics. His work investigates the impact of microfinance on small-scale farmers, the relationship between banking sector development and economic growth, and rural development through NGOs in Zimbabwe. Dr. Matsvai has also contributed to research on environmental economics, unemployment, and economic growth, particularly in developing economies like Zimbabwe and South Africa. His studies explore issues like land tenure, agricultural policies, and the effects of environmental quality on housing prices. ๐Ÿ“Š๐ŸŒพ๐Ÿ’ผ๐Ÿ“‰๐ŸŒ

 

Publication Top Notes ย 

  • Econometric analysis of unemployment, output and growth of the informal sector in Zimbabwe (1985โ€“2013), T Saungweme, S Matsvai, RC Sakuhuni – Cited by 36 (2014) ๐Ÿ“Š
  • Testing the Ricardian equivalence hypothesis in Zimbabwe: An ARDL bound testing approach, R Sunge, S Mufandaedza, S Matsvai – Cited by 14 (2015) ๐Ÿ“ˆ
  • NGOsโ€™ interventions, sustainable livelihood, and rural development in Zimbabwe: The case of Gutu district, Mutubuki Chitenderano Association, S Matsvai – Cited by 13 (2018) ๐ŸŒ
  • Farmer perceptions in Mashonaland East Province on Zimbabweโ€™s agricultural land rental policy, S Tatsvarei, A Mushunje, S Matsvai, S Ngarava – Cited by 12 (2018) ๐ŸŒพ
  • Technical efficiency impact of microfinance on small scale resettled sugar cane farmers in Zimbabwe, S Matsvai, A Mushunje, S Tatsvarei – Cited by 8 (2022) ๐Ÿ’ฐ
  • The Relationship between Banking Sector Development and Economic Growth in Selected SADC Countries: Panel Cointegration Approach (2005-2015), Z Mahlangu, S Matsvai – Cited by 3 (2016) ๐Ÿ’ณ
  • Analysing the response of CO2 emissions to business cycle in a developing economy: Evidence for South Africa post-Apartheid Era, DK Espoir, R Sunge, B Mduduzi, F Bannor, S Matsvai – Cited by 3 (2020) ๐ŸŒ
  • Sustainability crisis of Zimbabweโ€™s agricultural land tenure: A review, S Tatsvarei, A Mushunje, S Matsvai, S Ngarava – Cited by 2 (2018) ๐ŸŒฑ
  • Characterisation of Smallholder Resettled Sugarcane Farmers and Their Perceptions Towards Microfinance in Zimbabwe (Chiredzi), S Matsvai, A Mushunje, S Tatsvarei – Cited by 1 (2021) ๐ŸŒพ
  • Effects of Environmental Quality on urban housing prices: A hedonic multiple linear regression model approach, M Julius, A Sanderson, PL Roux, M Simion, M Zenzile – Cited by 1 (2020) ๐Ÿ 

Jimson Mwikamba | Agricultural Ecomics Award | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Jimson Mwikamba | Agricultural Ecomics Award | Young Scientist Award

Mr. Jimson Mwikamba, University of Nairobi, Kenya

๐ŸŒฑ Jimson Mwikamba is a Kenyan agricultural economist with a Masters from the University of Nairobi and a Bachelor’s from Egerton University. His expertise spans food security, environmental impact assessment, and agricultural training. He’s certified as a Plantwise Plant Doctor and has completed professional courses in monitoring and evaluation, education, and andragogy. With a solid educational foundation and practical training, Jimson is dedicated to enhancing agricultural practices and sustainable development in Kenya. ๐ŸŒพ

 

Publication Profile

Educational Backgroundย 

๐Ÿ“š Jimson Mwikamba’s educational journey is rooted in Kenya, where he pursued a diverse range of studies. He obtained his Masters in Agricultural and Applied Economics from the prestigious University of Nairobi, building upon his Bachelor’s degree in Agribusiness Management from Egerton University. His academic prowess traces back to Canon Kituri Secondary School, where he earned an impressive A- in his Kenya Certificate of Secondary Education. His educational foundation was laid at Nyache Primary School, Taita, Kenya, where he completed his Kenya Certificate of Primary Education with a commendable C+. Jimson’s commitment to learning has shaped his expertise in agricultural economics and management. ๐ŸŒฑ

 

Work Experience

๐ŸŒฑ Jimson Mwikamba’s career in academia and community service reflects his passion for agricultural education and leadership. Since May 2021, he has served as a Principal Lecturer at the Kenya School of Agriculture’s Nyeri campus, under the State Department for Crops Development, Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries. Prior to this role, he held positions as a Senior Lecturer and Lecturer at the same institution. He also contributes to his community as the Secretary of the Building Committee at Nyeri Town PEFA Cathedral of Grace since June 2020. His dedication to education and community development is further demonstrated by his previous role as a Tutor at St. Andrew East Africa College of Management. ๐Ÿ“š

 

Research Focus

๐Ÿ”ฌ Jimson Mwikamba’s research primarily focuses on the adoption and impact of climate-smart horticulture practices, particularly in Taita-Taveta County, Kenya. His studies delve into the determinants and factors influencing the intensity of adoption of these practices, as well as the use of mobile phones in enhancing productivity in agricultural settings. Through publications in reputable journals like Cogent Food & Agriculture and the East African Agricultural and Forestry Journal, Jimson contributes valuable insights into sustainable agricultural development and the integration of technology in farming practices. His dedication to understanding and promoting climate-smart agriculture underscores his commitment to addressing environmental challenges and improving livelihoods. ๐ŸŒฑ

 

Stanley Sharaunga | Agricultural Econmics Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stanley Sharaunga | Agricultural Econmics Award | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Stanley Sharaunga, Naye Business Consultants, South Africa

๐ŸŒฑ Dr. Stanley Sharaunga, a dynamic leader in agricultural economics, holds a PhD and MSc from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. With expertise in gender equity and rural development, he champions empowering women through water security and agricultural training. His roles span academia, where he lectured and supervised students, to managerial positions at uMhlosinga Development Agency, driving local economic development strategies. Notably, his impactful research and project management have garnered numerous awards, including recognition from the Agricultural Economics Association of South Africa. Dr. Sharaunga’s commitment to sustainable livelihoods and community empowerment marks him as a beacon in agricultural economics and development. ๐ŸŒพ๐Ÿ†

 

Publication Profile

Scopus

๐ŸŽ“ Education

Dr. Stanley Sharaunga embarked on a remarkable academic journey, culminating in a PhD in Agricultural Economics from the University of KwaZulu-Natal. Prior to this, he earned an MSc in Agribusiness and a BSc in Agribusiness, both from the same institution. His foundational education began with a BSc Honours in Physiotherapy from the University of Zimbabwe.

๐Ÿ‘จโ€๐Ÿ’ผ Professional Experience

Dr. Sharaunga has held pivotal roles, notably as Manager of Local Economic Development at uMhlosinga Development Agency. He has also served as a District Agribusiness Development Officer and a Post-Doctoral Fellow, contributing significantly to research and community development.

Research Focus

๐Ÿ” Dr. Stanley Sharaunga’s research focuses on empowering rural women in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, through various livelihood strategies. His work delves into understanding the determinants of women’s empowerment, factors influencing water-use security among smallholder farmers, and the impact of women’s skills development on poverty reduction. Through detailed analysis, he explores dimensions of empowerment, forest value orientations, and the nexus between women’s empowerment in agriculture and household food security. Dr. Sharaunga’s research not only sheds light on critical socio-economic issues but also provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to alleviate poverty and promote gender equity in rural communities. ๐ŸŒพ

Publication Top Notesย 

  1. “Analysis of Livelihood Strategies for Reducing Poverty Among Rural Women’s Households: A Case Study of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa” (2021) – cited by 8 ๐Ÿ“Š
  2. “The Effectiveness of Women’s Skills Development to Household Poverty Reduction: The Case of Msinga Rural Areas” (2019) – cited by 2 ๐Ÿ’ผ
  3. “Conceptualisation and Measurement of Women’s Empowerment Revisited” (2019) – cited by 27 ๐Ÿ”
  4. “Determinants of farmers’ participation in collective maintenance of irrigation infrastructure in KwaZulu-Natal” (2018) – cited by 19 ๐ŸŒฑ
  5. “The impact of improved โ€˜water-use securityโ€™ on womenโ€™s reliance on agricultural incomes in KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa” (2016) – cited by 0 ๐Ÿšฐ
  6. “Factors influencing water-use security among smallholder irrigating farmers in Msinga, KwaZulu-Natal Province” (2016) – cited by 11 ๐Ÿ’ง
  7. “Dimensions of Empowerment Influencing Women in KwaZulu-Natal to diversify away from agricultural-based livelihoods” (2016) – cited by 10 ๐ŸŒพ
  8. “Factors influencing forest value orientations among rural households in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa” (2015) – cited by 4 ๐ŸŒณ
  9. “The impact of ‘women’s empowerment in agriculture’ on household vulnerability to food insecurity in the KwaZulu-Natal province” (2015) – cited by 34 ๐Ÿฅš
  10. “The impact of feed costs on the production of eggs in South Africa in period 1970-2007: An analysis using a demand-supply simultaneous equation model” (2014)

Mustefa geda | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr.Mustefa geda | Agricultural Economics | Best Researcher Award

Mr.Mustefa geda, Haramaya University, Ethiopia

๐ŸŒพ Mustefa Geda holds a BSc in Agribusiness Management and Marketing from Adama University and an MSc in Agricultural Economics from Haramaya University, both in Ethiopia. With a passion for academia, he served as Assistant Professor of Agricultural Economics, specializing in teaching and research. Throughout his career, he contributed significantly to academia, research, and community service as Vice Dean and lecturer at various universities. With expertise in economics and agribusiness, Mustefa is dedicated to advancing knowledge and fostering sustainable practices in agriculture. Currently affiliated with Mettu University, he continues to inspire students and researchers alike. ๐ŸŽ“๐ŸŒฑ

Publication Profile:

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Qualification:

Mustefa Geda earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Agribusiness Management and Marketing, specializing in Agribusiness Management, from Adama University in Ethiopia. Building upon this foundation, he pursued his passion for agricultural economics, obtaining a Master of Science degree from Haramaya University in Ethiopia. ๐ŸŒพ With these qualifications, Mustefa has equipped himself with the knowledge and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of agribusiness and agricultural economics. His academic journey reflects his dedication to understanding and addressing the challenges facing agricultural industries, contributing to the sustainable development of agricultural communities. ๐ŸŽ“๐ŸŒฑ

 

Work Experience:

Mustefa Geda has cultivated a rich career as a university lecturer and researcher, specializing in Agricultural Economics. Serving as an Assistant Professor from July 2018 to October 2019, he assumed the role of Academic, Research, and Community Services Vice Dean. ๐Ÿซ His responsibilities included teaching a diverse array of Agricultural Economics and Economics courses to both postgraduate and undergraduate students, engaging in research initiatives, and actively participating in community service endeavors. Prior to this, Mustefa held a similar position from November 2014 to January 2018, further enriching his experience in academic leadership and mentorship. ๐ŸŽ“ Additionally, his tenure as a Graduate Assistant I from September 2011 to October 2013 equipped him with invaluable teaching skills and expertise in research methodology.

Research Focus:

Mustefa Geda’s research focus primarily revolves around agricultural economics and rural development in Ethiopia. ๐ŸŒพ His studies delve into various aspects of agricultural production, value chains, and market dynamics, aiming to enhance economic efficiency and sustainability in farming practices. Through meticulous analysis, Mustefa explores factors influencing market participation, adoption of agricultural technologies, and determinants of household food security. His work not only contributes to academic discourse but also offers practical insights for policymakers and stakeholders involved in agricultural development initiatives. With a commitment to addressing challenges faced by rural communities, Mustefa’s research endeavors strive to foster resilience and prosperity in Ethiopia’s agricultural sector. ๐Ÿ“Š๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡น

Publication Top Notes:

Economic efficiency in maize production in Ilu Ababor zone, Ethiopia

Analysis of soybean value chain in Buno Bedele zone, south western Ethiopia.

Factors Affecting Soybean Producers Supply to the Market in Buno Bedele Zone, South Western Ethiopia

Economic Efficiency in Barely Production: The Case of Chole District, East Arsi Zone, Oromia National Regional State, Ethiopia

Determinants of household-level food and nutrition security in wheat farmers of Arsi Zone, Ethiopia

Determinants of adoption of climate smart agricultural technologies in wheat production in Arsi Zone, Oromia Region of Ethiopia

Determinants of foreign distributed

Factors Affecting Market Participation of Milk Producer Households: The Case of Kofele District, West Arsi Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia

Determinants of domestic saving in Ethiopia: A vector error correction approach