Mrs. Uwingabire Solange | Agricultural Science | Community Engagement and Outreach
PhD candidate at Sokoine University of Agriculture, Rwanda
Solange Uwingabire is a PhD candidate specializing in Forest Sciences, with a focus on agroforestry for sustainable bioenergy and improved soil fertility in Rwanda. Her diverse academic background, including degrees in Soil Sciences and Land Management, complements her extensive professional experience in soil analysis, training, and community engagement initiatives. Solange’s commitment to enhancing agricultural practices and promoting environmental sustainability makes her a strong candidate for the Research for Community Engagement and Outreach award.
professional profile
Education 
Solange Uwingabire’s educational journey is marked by a strong foundation in soil sciences and forest management. She is currently pursuing her PhD in Forest Sciences, focusing on agroforestry for sustainable bioenergy in Rwanda, which she commenced in 2021. Prior to this, she earned her MSc in Soil Sciences and Land Management in 2016, equipping her with critical knowledge in soil fertility and management practices. Her undergraduate studies culminated in a Bachelor’s degree in Soil Science and Environmental Management in 2012. Throughout her academic career, Solange has engaged in various training programs and workshops, enhancing her technical skills and knowledge in agricultural sustainability, GIS applications, and statistical analysis. This solid educational background underpins her research and professional endeavors, positioning her as a knowledgeable advocate for sustainable agricultural practices in Rwanda.
work Experience
Solange Uwingabire’s professional experience encompasses a blend of academic research and practical engagement in soil science and agroforestry. As a PhD student since 2021, her research project focuses on agroforestry systems that enhance sustainable bioenergy production and soil fertility in Rwanda. Previously, she worked as a research assistant in the soils and plants laboratory from 2017 to 2020, where she contributed to various soil-related projects. Solange also served as a senior expert in evaluating kitchen gardens in Rwanda for B&S Europe and provided short-term training on GIS applications at the Rwanda Institute of Management. Her consultancy work includes soil sampling and fertilizer recommendations for multiple tea factories and environmental impact assessments for agricultural projects. This diverse experience has equipped Solange with the skills to effectively address agricultural challenges while fostering community engagement and sustainable practices.
Research Focus
Solange Uwingabire’s research focus is centered on agroforestry systems that promote sustainable bioenergy production and enhance soil fertility in Rwanda. Her PhD project investigates the integration of biochar and organic amendments to improve agricultural practices in two distinct agroecological zones. This research aims to address pressing challenges in soil degradation and food security while fostering environmentally friendly energy solutions for local communities. Solange’s work emphasizes the importance of combining traditional agricultural practices with innovative approaches to sustainability, ensuring resilience against climate change. Additionally, her interest in the role of forests in carbon sequestration and climate regulation further highlights her commitment to addressing environmental issues. By engaging with local farmers and communities, Solange aims to disseminate her findings and empower others to adopt sustainable practices, thus enhancing both agricultural productivity and environmental conservation.
Awards and honors
Solange Uwingabire has received recognition for her contributions to soil science and community engagement. She was awarded a scholarship for her PhD studies in Forest Sciences, demonstrating her academic excellence and commitment to research. In 2022, she was honored with a training opportunity at the XV World Forestry Congress, focusing on building a resilient future with forests. Her active participation in international conferences, such as the Agri4D 2023 Conference and the NM-AIST International Scientific Conference, showcases her dedication to sharing knowledge and best practices in agriculture. Additionally, she is a member of several prestigious organizations, including the International Biochar Initiative and the African Forest Forum, which reflect her commitment to advancing sustainable practices in forestry and agriculture. These accolades and memberships underscore Solange’s influence in her field and her potential to make significant contributions to community outreach and engagement.
Conclusion
Solange Uwingabire is a promising candidate for the Research for Community Engagement and Outreach award, given her strong academic background, practical experience, and dedication to community education in sustainable practices. With targeted efforts to enhance her outreach and collaboration, she has the potential to make significant contributions to community engagement in Rwanda.
Publications to Noted
Uwingabire, S.; Chamshama, S.A.O.; Nduwamungu, J.; Nyberg, G.
“French Bean Production as Influenced by Biochar and Biochar Blended Manure Application in Two Agro-Ecological Zones of Rwanda.”
Agronomy 2024, 14, x. Accepted paper.
Uwingabire, S., Chamshama, S. A. O., Nyberg, G., & Nduwamungu, J.
“Gasifier use for cooking and biochar production by smallholder farmers in Rwanda.”
Biofuels, 2024, 1–8.
Natxo García-López, Solange Uwingabire, Aida Bargués-Tobella, Cecilia Sundberg, Rosa C. Goodman, Christopher Boman, Gert Nyberg.
“An integrated agroforestry-bioenergy system for enhanced energy and food security in rural sub-Saharan Africa.”
Ambio, 2024.
C. Shingiro, G. Nyagatare, H. Hirwa, S. Uwingabire.
“Effect of Human Urine and Compost Tea on Soil Physical and Chemical Properties: Case Study Rubirizi Marshland.”
Journal of Agricultural Science and Engineering, Vol. 5, No. 3, 2019, pp. 61-66.
F. Uwisunzimana, F.X, Naramabuye, O. Munyaneza, D. Uwizeyimana, S. Uwingabire.
“Effective investigation and computation of the soil Erodibility factor in Karubanda watershed using USLE nomograph (K-factor) Equation Southern Province, Rwanda.”
International Journal of Science and Research, Vol. 7, No. 6, 2016, pp. 225-236.
Uwingabire, S., Msanya, B.M., Mtakwa, P.W., Uwitonze, S., Sirikale, S.
“Pedological characterization of soils developed on Gneissic – Granite in the Congo Nile Watershed Divide and Central Plateau Zones, Rwanda.”
International Journal of Current Research (India), Vol. 8, No. 9, 2016, pp. 39489–39501.
Uwingabire, S., Turinzwenayo.
“Spacing effect on macro and micro propagated plantlets, Rwanda.”
International Journal of Current Research (India), Vol. 8, No. 11, 2016, pp. 42507–42513.
Uwitonze, P., Msanya, B. M., Mtakwa, P.W., Uwingabire, S., Sirikale, S.
“Pedological Characterization of Soils Developed from Volcanic Parent Materials of Northern Province of Rwanda.”
Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Vol. 5, No. 6, 2016, pp. 225-236.