Photo taken during abstract presentation
ABSTRACT PRESENTATION IN NM-AIST INTERNATIONAL 2024 CONFERENCE AT ARUSHA
The recent Tropical Horizons Conference, held from July 17-19, 2024, in Arusha, Tanzania, brought together researchers, policymakers, and practitioners to discuss the critical intersection of sustainability in agriculture, environment, and technology. This year’s theme, “Advancing Sustainability in Agriculture, Environment, and Technology,” highlighted the urgent need for innovative solutions to address the challenges facing tropical ecosystems. Tropical regions are home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna, providing essential ecosystem services and economic opportunities. However, these ecosystems are increasingly threatened by human activities, climate change, and land-use changes. The conference aimed to create a platform for interdisciplinary dialogue, focusing on how to enhance sustainability and resilience in these vital landscapes.
My presentation focused on one of the specific objectives of my PhD work titled “Synergistic effect of biochar blended with manure on soil hydro-physical properties, under field conditions, in Rwanda. This research fell under the conference theme “Harmonizing landscapes: strategies for sustainable land use management”. My research relates to sustainable agriculture and environment through soil health improvement, nutrient management (nutrient retention and organic matter contribution), Carbon sequestration and economic viability of using biochar.
Photo b. Student receiving comments from the audience
The Tropical Horizons Conference served as a vital platform for advancing discussions on sustainability in tropical ecosystems. By bringing together diverse perspectives and expertise, the conference aimed to pave the way for actionable solutions that can transform agricultural practices and promote environmental resilience. As we move forward, the insights gained from this gathering were instrumental in shaping sustainable futures for tropical landscapes, ensuring that they continue to thrive for generations to come. Commitment to sustainability is not just an option; it is a necessity for the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. The collaborative spirit fostered at the conference undoubtedly led to meaningful progress in the quest for sustainability in agriculture, environment, and technology.
The conference presented an excellent opportunity for me to further develop my expertise and I got an invaluable visibility, received feedback on my research thereby contributing to my academic discourse. Moreover, by attending this conference, l was be able, to meet and interact with colleagues working in the same disciplines. We learned from each other’s experiences and hope to network with industry professionals and build connections that could lead to future productive collaboration.