Sustainable Management of Invasive Weeds
Our research focuses on developing science-based, climate-smart strategies for the sustainable management and valorisation of invasive weeds across Africa. We investigate weed ecology, plant–weed–herbivore interactions, and the role of weeds in food systems, biodiversity, and climate resilience. By integrating monitoring, biological control, circular-economy approaches (e.g., biochar, feed, and bioproducts), and farmer-centred innovation, we aim to transform invasive weeds from a production constraint into an opportunity. Our work strengthens food security, supports ecosystem health, and equips farmers, researchers, and policymakers with practical tools and evidence-based guidance for responsible and resilient weed management.
Objectives:
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By 2028, establish invasive-weed monitoring and mapping systems in at least five pilot regions to support early detection and evidence-based management.
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By 2029, develop and field-validate three sustainable weed-management or valorisation technologies (e.g., biochar, biological control, circular-use pathways) with smallholder farmer participation.
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By 2030, build capacity of 1,000+ stakeholders (farmers, extension officers, researchers, and policymakers) through training, guidelines, and knowledge-translation tools on sustainable invasive-weed management
Contact: Lawrence Ouma (louma@cwisa.org)