Brief Biography

William Chimkuyu holds Diploma in horticulture obtained from Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources he has also a certificate in Good Laboratory Practices from The Polytechnic (UNIMA). He is a Laboratory technician. William has vast practical experience in most biological science courses and his main area of interest is Botany.

Departmental research projects.

The department have the following key thematic area of research

1. Epidemiological Studies on parasitic disease vectors
2. Studies on control strategies of parasitic disease vectors
3. Conservation and management of biodiversity for environmental and human wellbeing
4. Sustainable utilization of biological diversity
5. Conservation and sustainable utilization of plant and animal genetic resources (Agro-Biodiversity

Other departmental academic related activities.

The department envision to intensify short courses and community outreach in such areas as:

1. Practical skills in biodiversity assessment and identification techniques
2. Instrumentation and measurements in sciences for educators
3. Techniques and innovation in disease vector control
4. Talks on biodiversity conservation and vector Disease Control
5. Capacity building in biological practical skills to schools

Winfred Kayange is holder of Bachelor of Science (Education) specializing in Biology (Major) and Chemistry (Minor). He obtained his degree from Mzuzu University in 2009. He is a senior Laboratory Technician. Winfred started working with Mzuzu University in 2015. Before joining Mzuzu University, he had previously worked with Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources on the same position from 2011 to 2015. Winfred has vast practical experience in most biological science courses and his main area of interest is Microbiology.

Brief Biography

Jommo Winston Ngonga is a holder of Bachelor of Education (Science) degree specializing in Biology (Major) and Mathematics (Minor) obtained at Chancellor College (University of Malawi). He also has a Diploma in Education (science) majoring in Biology and Minor Mathematics obtained at Domasi College of Education. Jommo has worked with ministry of Education as a secondary school teacher from 1998 to 2005.He joined Mzuzu University as Senior Laboratory Technician in 2006 and in 2017 was promoted to Chief Laboratory Technician (Biological Sciences Department). Jommo has vast practical experience in most biological science courses and meanwhile he is pursuing a Master’s degree in Biological Sciences (Entomology) with University of Malawi at Chancellor College

Brief biography

Yankho Chapeta is a Lecturer in the Biological Sciences Department at Mzuzu University in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Innovation. She joined the University in November 2019.  Yankho holds Diploma in Computer Studies from the National College of Information Technology (2005), Bachelor of Science Degree from Chancellor College – University of Malawi (2005 – 2008), and Master of Science Degree in Epidemiology from College of Medicine -University of Malawi (2017 – 2019).

Before joining Mzuzu University, Yankho had worked with Museums of Malawi, as a herpetologist (2010 – 2019), and a part time staff associate at College of Medicine – University of Malawi (2015 – 2019).  She have contributed to the research work and collaborations done by the National Museums of Malawi, and teaching, supervision and mentoring students at the College of Medicine.  She have initiated her own research work, published research reports and attended expeditions which required my input in reports produced.

Research and publications.    

Title of Master’s Dissertation

Use of House Improvement: An additional vector control intervention against malaria transmission in Chikhwawa District.

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS

Elhaj, M., Garbo, H., and Chapeta, Y., (2015). Evaluating the water quality of Dura River, Uganda using Macroinvertebrate. Journal of Natural Resources and Environment. Students 3. 3, 33-37, (11) 2015 ISSN 1683-6456 (Print): ISSN 2332-0109 (Online)

Chapeta, Y. 2010.  Amphibians and Reptiles of Nyika National Park, In:   Marianne J. Overton, (2010). Biosearch Nyika, Wildlife Research Expeditions.  Wayfarer Lodge Welbourn, Lincs LNS OQH, UK.

CONFERENCE PAPER

Chapeta, Y., 2013. Ecology and Conservation Status of endemic mountain Chameleons, Nadzikambia mlanjensis and Rampholeon platyceps in Malawi. Paper presented in May 2012 at the National Research Dissemination Conference, “Towards Evidence Based Policy Decision Making” organized by National Commission for Science and Technology, at Crossroads Hotel, Lilongwe.

Brief biography

 Saul Eric Mwale, is a lecturer in Genomics and Molecular Biology at Mzuzu University in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Innovation. His area of specialization is Plant Genetics and Molecular Biology. He holds a first class MSc in Plant breeding and seed systems from Makerere University, Uganda and BSc (Biology and Chemistry) from Mzuzu University.

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Title of Master’s Thesis

Genetics of drought tolerance in cowpea genotypes in Uganda

Research interests

 My research interests are;

• Breeding for resistance to biotic stresses
• Breeding for tolerance to abiotic stresses
• Genetic diversity and population structure of various crops using different genetic markers
• Biochemical and proximate analysis
• Conservation of plant genetic resources
• Marker assisted selection and mutation breeding
• Plant microbe-interactions.
• Seed systems

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS

1. Mwale SE, Shimelis H, Mafongoya P, Mashilo J. Breeding tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius) for drought adaptation: A review. Plant Breed. 2020; 00:1–13. https ://doi.org/10.1111/pbr.12806

2. Okul Valentor, M. Ochwo-Ssemakula, T. Kaweesi, A.Ozimati, E.S. Mwale, R. Kawuki, 2018. Plot based heritability estimates and categorization of cassava genotype response to cassava brown streak disease. Crop protection 108(2018)39-46.

3. Mwale, S.E., Ochwo-Ssemakula, M., Sadik, K., Achola, E., Okul, V., Gibson, P., Edema, R., Singini, W. and Rubaihayo, P. (2017) Response of Cowpea Genotypes to Drought Stress in Uganda. American Journal of Plant Sciences, 8, 720-733. https://doi.org/10.4236/ajps.2017.84050

1. Mwale, S. E., Ssemakula, M. O., Sadik, K., Alladassi, B., Rubaihayo, P., Gibson, P., Singini, W., & Edema, R. (2017). Estimates of combining ability and heritability in cowpea genotypes under drought stress and non-stress conditions in Uganda. Journal of Plant Breeding and Crop Science, 9(2), 10-18 Vol.9(2), pp. 10-18 , February 2017
   DOI: 10.5897/JPBCS2016.0609

1. Marco Martin Mwendo, Mildred Ochwo-Ssemakula, Saul Eric Mwale, Jimmy Lamo, Paul Gibson and Richard Edema. “Inheritance of resistance to brown spot disease in upland rice in Uganda.” Journal of Plant Breeding and Crop Science 9, no. 4 (2017): 37-44. http://dx.doi.org/10.5897/JPBCS2016.0613

1. Alladassi, Boris M. E.; Nkalubo, Stanley T.; Mukankusi, Clare; Mwale, Eric S.; Gibson, Paul; Edema, Richard; Urrea, Carlos A.; Kelly, James D.; Rubaihayo, Patrick R.. 2017. Inheritance of resistance to common bacterial blight in four selected common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) genotypes. Journal of Plant Breeding and Crop Science. Academic Journals, 96(6): 71-78.

1. Esther Achola, Phenius Tukamuhabwa, John Adriko, Richard Edema, Saul Eric Mwale and David Okello., 2017. Composition and variation of Fatty Acids among Groundnut Cultivars in Uganda. African Crop Science Journal, Vol. 25, No. 3, pp. 291-299. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/acsj.v25i3.3.

CONFERENCE PAPER

Response of Cowpea Genotypes to Water Stress Induced at Flowering Stage. International year of pulses: Pan-African Grain Legume and World cowpea conference. Livingstone, Zambia. 28 February to 4 March 2016.

Brief biography

Upon completion of BSc at Mzuzu University Master Chisale joined Ministry of Health at Mzuzu Central Hospital Medical Microbiology laboratory as a Newman scientist in 2012 to develop a sound hands on microbiology laboratory skills as well as research capacities through collaboration with Luke International and Mzuzu University Biomedical Science Department and subsequently acquired two opportunities (WHO and Bill and Melinda Gates Scholarships) to pursue MSc program. Through the award of MSc at University College of Dublin (Ireland), in 2018, he took up an academic position within the Mzuzu University, Biological Sciences Department within the faculty of Science Technology and Innovations where I am now a Lecturer in Microbiology and Immunology.

Through his strong passion in health research in 2015, he was appointed to head research and publication committee at Mzuzu Central Hospital and he co-founded a 7 membered research group  which is a multi-disciplinary and multi-organizational group of researchers seeking innovative methods of managing illness, particularly in our setting and in low and middle income countries at large using emerging strategies of biomarker science, new diagnostic approaches, implementation science and health care system focus. His team most recent funding award to support these activities is from the Luke International and CDC Mycotic Branch Antlanta.

For the last 6 years Chisale have conducted a couple of research studies which have had a focus on infectious diseases, epidemiology, implementation science, Antimicrobial Resistance pattern cardiovascular system, diabetes and many more. These researches are very translational and spans mechanistic work programmes. He is actively involved in some proteomic and miRNA biomarker discovery programmes in Ireland, Antimicrobial resistance surveys in Malawi, National Diagnostic feasibility studies in Malawi just to mention a few.

His research also includes approaches to improve societal and global health challenges through the Global Health (gHealth) Research group that he is part and parcel as a Biomedical Research Associates (www.ghealthresearch.org). These research activities are focusing on low- & middle-income countries, and include projects on healthcare strategies for the management of infectious Diseases, diabetes and cardiovascular disease, healthcare with smartphones, and the development of diagnostic biomarker approaches for detection of cardiomyopathy in settings where cardiac imaging facilities are not readily accessible. His team’s main collaborations at present are with clinicians, scientists and NGOs in sub-Saharan Africa.

Research Interests

His research is primarily focused on Biomarkers, Diagnostic assays / technologies / methods, Implementations Sciences, Epidemiology in the areas of Infectious Diseases, Antimicrobials Resistances, Diabetes, Cardiovascular disease, Cancer, & global health.

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS

1. Glezeva, N, Chisale, M, McDonald, K, Ledwidge, M, Gallagher, J & Watson, CJ 2020. Comparison of cardiometabolic profile and left ventricular systolic dysfunction amongst outpatients in a low-income Sub-Saharan African versus high-income European population; the MTIMA I study. European Heart Journal, Volume 40, Issue 2019, ehz745.0291, https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehz745.0291
2. Chisale, M, Gallagher, J & Watson, CJ 2020. Biomarkers for the diagnosis of bacterial and viral pneumonia in children aged 2 months to 59 months: Systematic Review
3. Chisale M, Dikani Salema, Frank Sinyiza, Judith Mkwaila, Pocha Kamudumuli, Hsin-yi Lee A comparative evaluation of three methods for the rapid diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) among HIV-infected patients in Northern Malawi. Malawi Medical Journal 32 (1): 3-7 March 2020. DOI: 4314/mmj.v32i1.2
4. Chisale M, Marina Makuluni, and Pocha Samuel Kamudumuli. Comparative assessment of microbial air contamination in labour and postnatal ward at Mzuzu central hospital. American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences (ASRJETS) (2019) Volume 61, No 1, pp 110-118.
5. Kamudumuli PS, Chisale Met. Al.2020. Chronic Schistosomiasis, a Clinical and Laboratory Diagnostic Challenge in Malawi. BMC Research Notes. DOI:21203/rs.2.23939/v1
6. Frank Watson Sinyiza, Alfred Kayira, Master R.O. Chisale, Chikondi Sharon Chimbatata, Paul Uchizi Kaseka, Pocha Samuel Kamudumuli, Tsung-Shu Joseph Wu, Balwani Chingatichifwe Mbakaya Histopathological Profile of Orbito-ocular Lesions at Tertiary Hospital in Northern Malawi. BMC, Ophthalmology. DOI:10.21203/rs.2.22129/v1
7. Glezeva, N, Chisale, M, McDonald, K, Ledwidge, M, Gallagher, J & Watson, CJ 2018, “Diabetes and complications of the heart in Sub-Saharan Africa: An urgent need for improved awareness, diagnostics and management’ Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice”, vol 137, pp. 10-19. DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2017.12.019
8. Chisale M, P Kumwenda, M Ngwira, MR Chisale, P Kumwenda, B M’baya, BI Chosamata, V Mwapasa; A pilot study to determine the normal haematological indices for young Malawian adults in Blantyre, Malawi. Malawi Medical Journal; 27(3): 101-105 September 2015. DOI: 4314/mmj.v27i3.5
9. Hannigan A, Chisale M, Drew R, Chris Watson, Joe Gallagher. GP133 Mobile phones for follow up in paediatric clinical studies in Africa Archives of Disease in Childhood 2019; 104:A84.
10. Chisale M, Grace Kusakala and Pocha Samuel Kamudumuli. “The Prevalence of Bacterial Contamination in Transfusable Platelets in Lilongwe, Malawi”. Acta Scientific Microbiology 2.10 (2019): 12-16. DOI: 10.31080/ASMI.2019.02.0363
11. Chitandale E, Choonara E, Mwenyephiri G, Zulu M, Chisale M, Kipandula W. Antibiotic resistance profiles of Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from surgical wound infections at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Malawi: a retrospective study. Int J Res Med Sci2019;7:3060-5. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20193395

CONFERENCE PAPER

1. Chisale M, Tsung-ShuWu J, Chipeta M, Ngwira M, Gallagher J, Watson C, “Knowledge of symptoms, signs, diet and lifestyle management among people with diabetes
2. Chisale M, Ngosi S, Dambula F, Kumwenda P and Ngwira M, Watson C, Gallagher J, “Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile in Bacteria Isolated From Urinary Tract Infection in Mzuzu, Northern Malawi“\
3. Chisale M, Mwapasa V, Mbaya B, Chisomata B, Kumwenda P, Ngwira M, Watson C, Gallagher J, Haematology values in a healthy Malawi population” (2015)
4. Gallagher J, Chisale M, Chipolombwe J, Watson C, “Knowledge of diabetes care among primary healthcare workers in Northern Malawi” (2015)
5. Chisale M, Tsung-ShuWu J, Chipeta M, Ngwira, Social Sciences in Health Network Conferences (26-27 September 2013). Assessment of Knowledge on diet and lifestyle management among diabetic patients in the Northern Region of Malawi.
6. Chisale M, Tsung-ShuWu J, Chipeta M, Ngwira; National Commission for AIDS (NAC)-College of Medicine (COM) Joint National Research Dissemination Conferences (22-23 November 2013). Assessment of Knowledge on diet and lifestyle management among diabetic patients in the Northern Region of Malawi

Research and publications.   

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS

12. Glezeva, N, Chisale, M, McDonald, K, Ledwidge, M, Gallagher, J & Watson, CJ 2020. Comparison of cardiometabolic profile and left ventricular systolic dysfunction amongst outpatients in a low-income Sub-Saharan African versus high-income European population; the MTIMA I study. European Heart Journal, Volume 40, Issue 2019, ehz745.0291, https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehz745.0291
13. Chisale, M, Gallagher, J & Watson, CJ 2020. Biomarkers for the diagnosis of bacterial and viral pneumonia in children aged 2 months to 59 months: Systematic Review Citation. PROSPERO International prospective register of systematic reviews
14. Chisale M, Dikani Salema, Frank Sinyiza, Judith Mkwaila, Pocha Kamudumuli, Hsin-yi Lee A comparative evaluation of three methods for the rapid diagnosis of cryptococcal meningitis (CM) among HIV-infected patients in Northern Malawi. Malawi Medical Journal 32 (1): 3-7 March 2020.
15. Chisale M, Marina Makuluni, and Pocha Samuel Kamudumuli. Comparative assessment of microbial air contamination in labour and postnatal ward at Mzuzu central hospital. American Scientific Research Journal for Engineering, Technology, and Sciences (ASRJETS) (2019) Volume 61, No 1, pp 110-118.
16. Kamudumuli PS, Chisale Met. Al.2020. Chronic Schistosomiasis, a Clinical and Laboratory Diagnostic Challenge in Malawi. BMC Research Notes. DOI:21203/rs.2.23939/v1
17. Frank Watson Sinyiza, Alfred Kayira, Master R.O. Chisale, Chikondi Sharon Chimbatata, Paul Uchizi Kaseka, Pocha Samuel Kamudumuli, Tsung-Shu Joseph Wu, Balwani Chingatichifwe Mbakaya Histopathological Profile of Orbito-ocular Lesions at Tertiary Hospital in Northern Malawi. BMC, Ophthalmology. DOI:10.21203/rs.2.22129/v1
18. Glezeva, N, Chisale, M, McDonald, K, Ledwidge, M, Gallagher, J & Watson, CJ 2018, “Diabetes and complications of the heart in Sub-Saharan Africa: An urgent need for improved awareness, diagnostics and management’ Diabetes Research and Clinical Practice”, vol 137, pp. 10-19. DOI: 10.1016/j.diabres.2017.12.019
19. Chisale M, P Kumwenda, M Ngwira, MR Chisale, P Kumwenda, B M’baya, BI Chosamata, V Mwapasa; A pilot study to determine the normal haematological indices for young Malawian adults in Blantyre, Malawi. Malawi Medical Journal; 27(3): 101-105 September 2015.
20. Hannigan A, Chisale M, Drew R, Chris Watson, Joe Gallagher. GP133 Mobile phones for follow up in paediatric clinical studies in Africa Archives of Disease in Childhood 2019; 104:A84.
21. Chisale M, Grace Kusakala and Pocha Samuel Kamudumuli. “The Prevalence of Bacterial Contamination in Transfusable Platelets in Lilongwe, Malawi”. Acta Scientific Microbiology 2.10 (2019): 12-16.
22. Chitandale E, Choonara E, Mwenyephiri G, Zulu M, Chisale M, Kipandula W. Antibiotic resistance profiles of Acinetobacter baumannii isolates from surgical wound infections at Kamuzu Central Hospital in Malawi: a retrospective study. Int J Res Med Sci2019;7:3060-5

CONFERENCE PAPER

7. Chisale M, Tsung-ShuWu J, Chipeta M, Ngwira M, Gallagher J, Watson C, “Knowledge of symptoms, signs, diet and lifestyle management among people with diabetes
8. Chisale M, Ngosi S, Dambula F, Kumwenda P and Ngwira M, Watson C, Gallagher J, “Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profile in Bacteria Isolated From Urinary Tract Infection in Mzuzu, Northern Malawi“\
9. Chisale M, Mwapasa V, Mbaya B, Chisomata B, Kumwenda P, Ngwira M, Watson C, Gallagher J, Haematology values in a healthy Malawi population” (2015)
10. Gallagher J, Chisale M, Chipolombwe J, Watson C, “Knowledge of diabetes care among primary healthcare workers in Northern Malawi” (2015)
11. Chisale M, Tsung-ShuWu J, Chipeta M, Ngwira, Social Sciences in Health Network Conferences (26-27 September 2013). Assessment of Knowledge on diet and lifestyle management among diabetic patients in the Northern Region of Malawi.
12. Chisale M, Tsung-ShuWu J, Chipeta M, Ngwira; National Commission for AIDS (NAC)-College of Medicine (COM) Joint National Research Dissemination Conferences (22-23 November 2013). Assessment of Knowledge on diet and lifestyle management among diabetic patients in the Northern Region of Malawi

Brief biography

Professionally Michael Mzirekelenge holds the Master of Science in Animal Science (2001 to 2003), Bachelor of Science in Agriculture (1994 to 1999) degrees, Diploma Agriculture (1994 to 1997), all from the University of Malawi, Bunda College; Certificate Veterinary Science (1989-1991, NRC, Malawi), Postgraduate Certificate Poultry Management (2004, Hebrews University of Jerusalem, Israel), Postgraduate Certificate Small Ruminant Production (2009, University of Pritoria, South Africa), Postgraduate Certificate in Aquaculture Production Management (2009, University of Pritoria South Africa), and the Postgraduate Certificate Artificial Breeding in Cattle (2000, Kluang Johor Malaysia).

Besides, Michael Mzirekelenge Nkosi has more than 29 years of experience (1991 to date) broken into 13 years working with different livestock Value Chains under the Department of Animal Health and Livestock Development (DAHLD) of the Ministry of Agriculture Irrigation and Water Development (MoAIWD); 4years (2004 to 2008) as Trainer of Frontline Extension staff for the MoAIWD in various livestock technologies based at the Natural Resources College, While at the NRC he played a pivotal role in the introduction of a Diploma in Animal Health and Production Training programme and the accreditation of the curricula with University of Malawi Bunda College and 12 years as lecturer in Biological Sciences at Mzuzu University (MZUNI), Currently he is ODeL Satellite Learning Centre Manager for Lilongwe and a Graduate Teaching Assistant in Animal Science Department at the Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR). His job involved training Frontline Extension workers in different cadres, implementation of interventions at farmer group levels and teaching, research and consultancy and outreach at University level. He participated in the Czech Republic Termite Research Team (TRT) on Termite Biodiversity of Malawi 2018 Expedition.

His research interests include the following among others: Animal Feed quality and safety, Non-conventional feedstuff quality assessments for potential animal feed value, Mycotoxin contaminations analysis of foods and feedstuffs, Animal agriculture value chain development, Poultry feeds and feeding , Animal products and byproducts quality and safety, Antimicrobial stewardship in animal agriculture, Biodiversity assessments, Ethno-veterinary practices and protocol validations, Animal health and Livestock development and Animal reproductive physiology.

Research and publications.   

Title of Master’s Dissertation

“Effects of Tethering and Buck Presence on Onset of Puberty in Female Malawian Goats”.

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS

NKOSI, M.M.; SAFALAOH, A.C.L. MTEGHA, C. (2018). “Prevalence and contamination levels of aflatoxins in dairy cattle feeds from milk bulking groups in Malawi” African Journal of Rural Development, Vol. 3 (3): July- September 2018: pp.883-894.

CONFERENCE PAPERS AND OTHER PUBLICATIONS

Nkosi, M.M. (2004).  “Effects of Feed Protein on Growth, Reproduction and the Health status of Broiler and Layer Chickens”. Final Project Report, presented at the International Postgraduate Course in Poultry Management: Nutritional, Physiological and Veterinary aspects, organized by the Division of External Studies, Hebrews University of Jerusalem at the Faculty of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Quality Sciences, Rehovot, Israel.

Nkosi, M.M.; Hassb-Elnabi, H.O. and Basheer Ali, A. (2015) Antimicrobial Resistance and Foodborne Diseases Associated with Livestock Status in Sudan and Malawi.  A country report presented on 24^th July 2015 during an international workshop on Abtimicrobial resistance and foodborne diseases associated with livestock held from 6 -24^th July 2015 in Bangkok, Thailand.

Nkosi, M.M. (2003). “Effects of Tethering and Buck Presence on Onset of Puberty in Female Malawian Goats”.  MSc Thesis, University of Malawi, Bunda College Library, Lilongwe, Malawi.

Nkosi, M.M. (1998). Risk Factors associated with pre-and post-weaning mortality in Goats at Lifidzi Goat Breeding Centre. BSc (Agric) Dissertation, University of Malawi, Bunda College, Lilongwe, Malawi.

BOOKS AND BOOK CHAPTERS

Nkosi, M.M. and Saiti, A., (2014). “Malawi Junior Certificate of Education Practice Biology I Textbook”. Dzuka Publishers, Blantyre, Malawi.

Nkosi, M.M. and Saiti, A., (2014). “Malawi Junior Certificate of Education Practice Biology 2 Textbook”. Dzuka Publishers, Blantyre, Malawi.

Nkosi, M.M. and Saiti, A., (2014). “Malawi Junior Certificate of Education Biology Teachers’ Guide”. Dzuka Publishers, Blantyre, Malawi.

Brief biography

McLenelious Chimenya is a Senior Lecturer in the Biological Sciences Department at Mzuzu University in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Innovation. He joined Mzuzu University in January, 2020. He holds a Diploma in Education (Sciences) from the University of Malawi, Chancellor College (1989), Bachelor of Education (Sciences), University of Malawi, Chancellor College (1991), Bachelor of Education (Science-Honours), University of Malawi, Chancellor College (1994), and Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Biology, University of Malawi, Chancellor College (2001).

McLenelious worked as a secondary school biology teacher at Likangala and Mulunguzi secondary schools in Zomba between   1991 and 1994. He later joined Domasi College of Education as a lecturer in Biology between 1994 and 2003. Between 2002 and 2003, he worked as a part time lecturer in Biology at the University of Malawi, Chancellor College, Zomba.  Between 2003 and 2019, he worked as a high school science teacher at an international high school, Kamuzu Academy, Kasungu District.

While at Domasi College of Education, McLenelious held different portfolios. In 1995, he was the teaching practice zone coordinator. Between 1997 and 1999, he was an Assistant Coordinator (Domasi College), UNFPA/UNESCO Population Education Project for secondary schools. Between 1997 and 2001 McLenelious was Head of Biological Sciences Department at Domasi College of Education, Zomba. In 1999-2001, McLenelious was a Research Associate, Lake Malawi Ecology Project, Biology Department, Chancellor College, Zomba. In 2001-2003, he was the Coordinator, Strengthening of Mathematics and Science at Secondary School Education (SMASSE Project- Domasi College (MoEST-Malawi/JICA-Kenya & Malawi). In 2001-2003, he was Caretaker Dean, Faculty of Science, Domasi College of Education, and Zomba. Between 2007 and 2016, he was Head of Biology at Kamuzu Academy. In 2009, McLenelious did a Consultancy in Teaching Year 1 Biology Module, Basic Studies Programme, Diploma in Agriculture, Natural Resources College. In 2010, he was the Coordinator, National Schools Science Fair, and Kamuzu Academy. And from 2011 to 2016, McLenelious was the Head of Sciences, Kamuzu Academy.

Upon joining Mzuzu University, McLenelious has worked as team member who has been instrumental in functional review program. He also took part in the production of Mzuzu University alcohol based hand sanitizers.

McLenelious has conducted research in Genetic Population Structure of Oreochromis mossambicus in the Lower Shire River System with the aim of identifying genetic relationships amongst the chambo as a tool of curbing illegal fishing in the Lower Shire River System.

Research and publications.

Title of Master’s Dissertation

Chimenya, M.C., (2001), Genetic Population Structure of Oreochromis mossambicus in the Lower Shire River System. M.Sc. Thesis. University of Malawi, Chancellor College, Zomba. 198p

Journal publications

Mclenelious C. Chimenya, Wisdom J. Changadeya, Aggrey J. D. Ambali, (November 2013), Genetic diversity and population structure of Oreochromis mossambicus in the Lower Shire river system of Malawi, International Journal of Research in Social Sciences (IJRSS), Volume 3, Issue 4, YAMUNA, NAGAR, INDIA.

Changadeya, W., Ambali, A., Kabwazi, H., Kafumbata, D. Chimenya, M.C. and Phiri, M., H., (2000). The Status of Lagoon Fishery in Nkhota-Kota District, Malawi. Malawi Journal of Science and Technology, Vol. 6:3-9.

Kafumbata, D., Ambali, A., Kabwazi, H., Changadeya, W., Phiri, M. and Chimenya, M.C. (2000). Chasing the Chambo in Southern Lake Malawi. Does Molecular Genetics Have a Role to Play in the Management of the Stocks?  Malawi Journal of Science and Technology,

Vol. 6:71-79.

Conference papers

Chimenya, M.C., Ambali, A., Kabwazi, H., Kafumbata, D. and Changadeya, W. (2000). Status of the Lower Shire Fishery: Are the Tilapia Populations in a Stable State? Research and Development: Challenges of a New Millennium, Research and Publications Committee, University of Malawi. Sixth Conference Proceeding, P. 60.

Changadeya, W., Ambali, A., Kabwazi, H., Phiri, M., H., Chimenya, M.C. and Kafumbata, D. (2000). Population structure of Taeniolethrinops praeobitalis (Regan) in the Southeast and Southwest Arms of Lake Malawi. Research and Development: Challenges of a New Millennium, Research and Publications Committee, University of Malawi. Sixth Conference Proceeding, P. 61.

Kabwazi, H., Ambali, A., Changadeya, W., Chimenya, M.C. Kafumbata, D. and Phiri, M., H., (2000). Potential and Sustainable Utilisation of Fish Resources in Malawi. A Genetic Approach: Research and Development: Challenges of a New Millennium, Research and Publications Committee, University of Malawi. Sixth Conference Proceeding, P. 63.

Ambali, A., Kabwazi, H., Changadeya, W., Kafumbata, D., Chimenya, M.C. and Phiri, M. (2000). The Potential and Threats of Lagoon Fishery in Nkhota-Kota District. Research and Development: Challenges of a New Millennium, Research and Publications Committee, University of Malawi. Sixth Conference Proceeding, P. 64.

Chimenya, M.C., (2001), Genetic Population Structure of Oreochromis mossambicus in the Lower Shire River. Lake Malawi Fisheries Management Symposium (LMFMS), Conference Proceeding, Capital Hotel, Lilongwe.

Paul Munyenyembe is an Associate Professor in Plant Taxonomy and Systematics in the Department of Biological Sciences at Mzuzu University. He holds a BSc and MSc in Botany from Patrice Lumumba University and a PhD in Plant Taxonomy and Systematics from the University of Southampton. He has more than 20 years of experience in botanical research and teaching at university level. He has taught undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University of Dar es Salaam in Tanzania and at Chancellor and Bunda Colleges of the University of Malawi.

In the late 1990s Paul Munyenyembe worked as the Research and Monitoring Coordinator for the Lake Chilwa Wetland and Catchment Management Project in Zomba, Malawi. In the early 2000s he also worked for the International Union for the Conservation of Nature Regional Office for Southern Africa (IUCN-ROSA) as Technical Adviser to the Southern African Biodiversity Support Programme under the Ecosystems Programme. This work resulted in the development of the Southern African Regional Biodiversity Strategy.

For almost a decade (until 2017) Paul Munyenyembe worked as the Director of the SADC Plant Genetic Resources Centre (SPGRC) in Lusaka, Zambia where, as the CEO of the Institution, he was responsible for the day to day management of the institution including: scientific, financial, human resource and administration. During his tenure at SPGRC he increased the number of accessions (seed samples) from SADC member states conserved in the genebank from about 13,000 to 18,000.

Paul Munyenyembe joined the Faculty of Mzuzu University in 2019. Currently, his research interests include: systematic and evolutionary relationships in the genus Dolichos L. and the Tribe Phaseoleae (Fabaceae); floristic studies with emphasis on the flora of Malawi; biodiversity assessments; research on economic uses and ecological parameters of the legumes of Southern Africa; studies of indigenous knowledge systems in relation to biodiversity conservation and utilization.

He has to his credit numerous publications on plant taxonomy and systematics, and biodiversity research.

Research and publications.   

Title of PhD Thesis

Biological Diversity of Species in the Leguminosae genus Dolichos L.

JOURNAL PUBLICATIONS

• Armbruster, W.S., M.E. Edwards, J.F. Hines, R.L.A. Mahunnah and P.

Munyenyembe (1993).  Pollination Ecology of Dalechampia species.  National    

            Geographic Research and Exploration 9(4): 460‑474.

• Munyenyembe, P. (1993). Legume germplasm collection in the arid and semi‑arid        areas of Tanzania.  FAO/IBPGR Plant Genetic Resources Newsletter 91/92:65.
• Munyenyembe, M.P. and F.A. Bisby (1997). The transfer of Dolichos junodii to Nesphostylis (Leguminosae).  Kew Bulletin 52(3): 689-692.
• Kwapata, K., Mwase, W.F., Bokosi, J.M., Kwapata, M.B. and Munyenyembe, P. (2007). Genetic diversity of Annona senegalensis populations as revealed by simple sequence repeats (SSRs). African Journal of Biotechnology Vol. 6  (10), pp. 1249-1247
• Chataika, B. Y. E., Bokosi, J. M., Kwapata, M. B., Chirwa, R. M., Mwale, V.            , Munyenyembe, P. and Myers, J. R. (2010). Performance of parental      genotypes and inheritance of Angular Leaf Spot (Phaeosariopsis griseola)            resistance in the common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). African Journal of      Biotechnology Vol. 9(28), pp. 4398-4406, 12 July, 2010 Available online at http://www.academicjournals.org/AJB

ISSN 1684–5315 © 2010 Academic Journals

Edited Books

• . Van Zegeren, K. and M.P. Munyenyembe (eds.) (1998). The Lake Chilwa    

          Environment, a Report of the 1996 RAMSAR Site Study.  University of Malawi,

162 pp

• Jensen, A., Kambewa, D., Munyenyembe, P. and Wilson, (2000). Lake Chilwa Wetland State of the Environment, Environmental Affairs Department, Malawi.

• Jensen, A., Kambewa, D., Munyenyembe, P., Kishindo, P. and Wilson, J. (2001). Lake Chilwa Wetland Management Plan, Environmental Affairs

Department, Malawi.

Book Chapters

• Munyenyembe, P. (1995). Contributor to UNEP (1995). Global Biodiversity    

      Assessment, Section 2.  Characterisation of Biodiversity.  Cambridge University

Press, 1141pp

• Munyenyembe, M.P. and E.Y. Sambo (1998). Chapter 3 the vegetation of Lake Chilwa.  In:        Van Zegeren, K. and M.P. Munyenyembe (eds.) (1998).  The Lake Chilwa      

       Environment, a Report of the 1996 RAMSAR Site Study: 39-71.

• Sambo, E. and Munyenyembe, M. (1999). Chapter 7 Indigenous knowledge systems in the natural resources management plan for the Lake Chilwa Basin, Southern Malawi. In Caldwell, W. (Ed.).  Issues and Responses: Land Use and Planning in Eastern and Southern Africa. Weaver Press, Harare, Zimbabwe.
• Munyenyembe, P. (2000). Chapter 8 Biological diversity. In: Government of Malawi (2000). Lake Chilwa Wetland State of the Environment, Environmental Affairs Department, Malawi: 58-69.
• Munyenyembe, P. (2006). Contributor to Malawi Government (2006): National

Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan.

CONFERENCE PAPERS

• Munyenyembe, P. (1992). Systematic and evolutionary relationships in the genus   Dolichos (Leguminosae).  A paper presented at the 3rd International Legume              Conference, 12 ‑ 17 July 1992.  Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, England.
• Munyenyembe, M.P. (1996). A new circumscription of the genus Dolichos                   (Leguminosae).  In: van der Maesen, L.J.G., X.M. van der Burgt, and  J.M. van                 Madenbach de Rooy (eds.), The Biodiversity of African Plants, Proceedings of    

        The XIVth AETFAT Congress, 22 ‑ 27 August 1994, Wageningen, the   Netherlands.

• Munyenyembe, M.P. (1997). The floral and pollination biology of Dolichos                  (Leguminosae).  Proceedings of the 4th Research and Publications Committee Conference of the University of Malawi, 17-20 July 1995, Mangochi, Malawi.
• Munyenyembe, M.P. and Qhobela, L.L. (2014). Human resource capacity in conservation and use of plant genetic resources in the SADC region: A review.   Proceedings of the Fourth RUFORUM Regional Biennial Conference 21 – 25    July 2014, Maputo, Mozambique: pp 77 – 80

Brief biography

Twalibu Tandwe is a Lecturer and Current Head in Biological Sciences Department at Mzuzu University in the Faculty of Science, Technology and Innovation. He joined Mzuzu University in April 2015. He holds Diploma in Education (Sciences; Biology and Mathematics) From Domasi College of Education Malawi (1999), Bachelor of Education Science (Honors) Degree (Double major Biology and Chemistry)  from Islamic University In Uganda (IUIU) (2005), and Master of Science Degree in Conservation Biology from Chancellor College -University of Malawi (2012).  Currently, Twalibu is pursuing PhD studies in Biological Sciences at Chancellor College – University of Malawi. Before   Joining Mzuzu University, Tandwe worked with Chancellor College, the constituent College of University of Malawi since 1992 as a Laboratory Assistant (1992-1997), and Technician (1999-2004 and as Chief Technician (2005-2015).   He was also engaged as an adjunct and part time Lecturer in various courses in Biological sciences at Domasi College of Education, University of Livingstonia and as a tutor and demonstrator and a resource person at Chancellor College and College of medicine.

While at Chancellor, Tandwe contributed tremendously on practical skills development in the students he served and improved practical skills in the then laboratory technical staff he worked with.  Many of the lecturers and professors he was serving found him very useful both practically and theoretically. Some of the major contribution Tandwe has made since he joined Mzuzu University is that he has been one of the team members who were in forefront in the development of Curricula for two Programmes (Biodiversity Conservation and Management; and Parasitology and Disease Vector Control).   Secondary he has been one of the team members who initiated an innovation for production of Mzuzu University Alcohol based Hand sanitizers.

Twalibu has conducted research projects and consultancies aiming at assessment of effects of anthropogenic activities on biological diversity, environmental quality assessment, and gathering baseline ecological and biodiversity data on different ecosystems (both aquatic and terrestrial) by using biological, microbiological, ecological, physical and chemical indicators. He has also conducted projects on Environmental Impact Assessment and Environment Management Plan and Environmental Audit Projects, many of which involved assessing  status of fauna and flora in both terrestrial and aquatic environments including water quality assessment using Physical-chemical and biological indicators. Furthermore he has conducted consultancies microbial analysis in food, food product, and environment.

His areas of research and project interest include: Biodiversity Surveys, Inventories, Assessment and Monitoring; Ecology and Conservation Biology of threatened  Fauna and Flora species,   Environmental Pollution and Ecotoxicology  Impacts on Biodiversity, Ecosystems and environmental quality (terrestrial and aquatic) assessments,  Biophysical environment Assessment; Eco-efficient Organic Waste Management, Agro -ecology  and Climate Smart Agriculture;  Ecology of  and Diversity of Arthropods of Public( Agricultural & M) Importance and their Control Innovative Technologies, Food Preservation and Innovation Technologies , Ethanobiology; Evaluation of Antimicrobial activities of plant and animal extract;   Parasitological  and Microbial Contamination Assessment  in Food and Food Product, and Environment (e.g. Surface water, underground water, drinking water,  waste water, materials, and soils)

Research and publications.   

Title of Master’s Dissertation

Effects of Aquaculture on quantity and quality of water in some selected streams/rivers in Zomba District, Malawi. I don’t think this should be included as a publication.

Journal publications

Kambwiri, W., Changadeya, W., Chimphamba, J. and Tandwe, T. (2014), ‘‘Land Use Impacts on Water Quality of Rivers draining from Mulanje Mountain: A Case of Ruo River in the Southern Malawi,” Journal of Science and Technology, Vol 10 No 1, pp. 15-31.

Conference papers

1. Manda, S.C., Munthali, E.R.Y., Tandwe, T., Gondwe, D., Kamanula, J. and Manda, J.K.T. Analysis of antimicrobial activity of Jatereorhiza palmate root extract against Escherichia coli, Salmonella, spp, Entorococcucs faecalis and Staphylococcus aureus bacteria species.  Paper presented at the 22^nd College of Medicine Research Dissemination Conference on Health Research for Preventing Illness and Improved Health Services in Malawi held at the College of Medicine, Mahatma Gandhi Campus in Blantyre from 23rd to 24th November, 2018.

2. Tandwe, T., Juwawo, P. and Kamanula, J. Assessment of Microbial Contamination of Ground Water from Protected and unprotected Shallow Wells in Mzuzu City. Paper presented at National Research Dissemination Conference on Research and Innovation: A catalyst for sustainable development held at Nkopola Lodge in Mangochi Malawi from 28^th to 29^th September, 2017.

3. Pemba, E.C. and Tandwe, T. Effect of Drying Methods on Nutritive Value of Three Consumed Mushrooms in Malawi (Cantharellus cibarius, Cantharellus longisporus and Pleurotus ostreatus). Paper presented at Food and Nutrition Research Dissemination Conference held at Bingu International Convention Center, Lilongwe on 27^th October 2016.