The DWMTS received a research grant from the Pro-Vice Chancellor’s Office for Research, Innovation, and Development. Dr. Evans Simasiku led a team that investigated the significance of the Sikunga Fish Protected Area for fisheries conservation in the Zambezi region.
The other team led by Dr. Lucas Rutina, examined the community composition, abundance, and diversity of piscivorous waterbirds in the Zambezi River freshwater tributaries. Mr. Jim Kairu led the team in assessing the community’s perception of the socio-ecological value of the Sikunga Channel. Similarly, Jim has spent the last three years studying the breeding ecology of the Southern carmine bee-eaters (Merops nubicoides) along the Sikunga Channel, a story to look out for in the next addition.
Three articles are now being written for publication in reputable journals and will be available by the end of the year.
Prof. Lazarus Hangula, former Vice Chancellor, and Dr. Bennett Kangumu, Campus Director of Katima Mulilo Campus, launched the research boat for the first time into the mighty Zambezi River (showcased here). The UNAM research boat which was purchased specifically for research purposes was used to access the Zambezi River, including the Sikunga Channel.
