Prof. Saliou Niassy | Edible Insects | Best Researcher Award

Professor at African Union, Senegal

Profile:

• Google Scholar Profile

Current Position 🌍

Dr. Saliou Niassy is the Coordinator of the Inter-African Phytosanitary Council (AU-IAPSC) under the African Union Commission in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Since November 2023, Dr. Niassy has been spearheading policies and programs in line with the strategic objectives of the Directorate of Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy, and Sustainable Environment (DARBE). His leadership ensures effective functioning across units, collaboration with stakeholders, and alignment with thematic partnerships. As a seasoned administrator, he oversees employee performance, fosters partnerships with regional and international organizations, and represents the Council at global conferences.

Publication Achievements 📚

Dr. Niassy is a prolific author in agricultural entomology and agroecology. His research publications have earned him the Price for the Best Published Paper by the icipe Governing Council in 2011. He serves as the Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Tropical Insect Science (IJTIS) since 2018, showcasing his commitment to advancing knowledge in insect science. His articles contribute significantly to understanding sustainable pest management and agroecological farming systems, influencing research and policy frameworks globally.

Ongoing Research 🔬

Dr. Niassy’s ongoing research focuses on biopesticide development, push-pull technology, and the management of invasive pests like the Fall Armyworm. Projects such as SCLAMP-EA, funded by BMZ, and the FAW-IPM program across five African nations aim to deliver climate-smart pest management solutions. These initiatives target food security by integrating biological controls and innovative technologies into agricultural systems. He also emphasizes the use of digital tools such as GIS, ODK, and geomantic applications for geospatial data collection to improve pest management strategies.

Research Interests 🌾

• Biopesticides and their application in sustainable agriculture.
• Agroecology through crop diversification and intensification.
• Chemical ecology, focusing on semiochemicals for pest management.
• Big-data analytics and ICT tools in agriculture.
• Technology transfer to bridge the gap between research innovations and farmer adoption.

Academic Background 🎓

Dr. Niassy’s academic journey is rooted in excellence. He earned his PhD in Agricultural Entomology (2008–2011) from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology under a DAAD-funded scholarship. Prior to this, he completed:

• Postgraduate Degree in Zoology (2004–2006) from University Cheikh Anta Diop.
• MSc in Natural Science (2003–2004) from the same institution.
• BSc in Natural Science (2000–2003), setting the foundation for his illustrious career.

Scholarships and Awards 🏆

• The prestigious DAAD PhD Research Scholarship in partnership with the African Regional Postgraduate Programme in Insect Science (ARPPIS).
• Recognition for his role as President of the African Association of Insect Scientists (2017–2021).
• Distinction as Secretary of the African Association of Insect Scientists (2013–2017).

Bioinformatics and Digital Tools 📊

A strong advocate for digital transformation in agriculture, Dr. Niassy leverages bioinformatics and big data tools to enhance pest management systems. He is adept at developing phone applications and software for agricultural extension services and applying GIS/GPS technologies for spatial data analysis. These tools provide actionable insights for sustainable farming practices.

Professional Associations 🌐

• President and Secretary of the African Association of Insect Scientists.
• Editor-in-Chief of IJTIS.
• Leader of international collaborations with organizations like USAID, FAO, and the United Nations.

Training & Workshops 🏫

Dr. Niassy has organized over 20 workshops and international conferences and participated in over 100 global events, addressing pressing issues in pest management and sustainable agriculture. His sessions emphasize technology transfer and stakeholder collaboration, equipping participants with practical skills.

Oral Presentations 🎤

As a distinguished speaker, Dr. Niassy has delivered keynote addresses at international conferences, including the World Bank’s Land and Poverty Conference and high-level African Union forums. His presentations focus on policy advocacy, climate change impacts, and agricultural innovation.

Tasks Completed as a Researcher 🧪

• Successfully scaled technologies like push-pull and biological pest control.
• Coordinated projects targeting food security across Africa.
• Developed tools and training materials to bridge the gap between researchers and farmers.
• Supervised theses on diverse topics, including the ecological impact of biopesticides on pollinators.

Success Factors 🌟

• Build and manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Secure substantial project funding, including over $7 million for FAW-IPM.
• Foster partnerships with regional and international stakeholders.
• Combine scientific rigor with practical solutions for African farmers.

Laboratory Experience📝

Dr. Niassy’s laboratory expertise includes the identification of pheromones, field trials, and testing biopesticides. His publications address pressing challenges in agriculture, offering innovative solutions for pest control and agroecology. He also mentors young researchers, ensuring the next generation is equipped to tackle future challenges.

📖Publications: