RESEARCH PROJECTS

Development of Nutritious blends, Cowpeas and Bambara blends. Maize meal fortification with vitamin A, Iron and Zinc at hammer meal level (National Project). Production of fuel Grade Ethanol  from locally available raw materials. This is a joint study with the Crop Sciences Department of the University of Zambia (Sweet sorghum stocks developed by UNZA are being used for extraction of Ethanol and Mpundu fruit so as to achieve a 99.9% ethanol for blending with gasoline) National Project on Evaluating Metabolic Composition of HIV-Infected People on ARVs in Zambia as a means of assessing the impact of food supplements (HEPS). Retention of Pro-vitamin A in Biofortified maize (orange maize) during traditional storage and after processing and cooking. Collaboration with ZARI and Harvest Plus.

Commercialization of cassava through characterization of the different varieties, subjected to different treatment method and product development. Assessing the suitability of Zeer Pot Technology (Clay stoves that work like fridges) in the preservation of fresh vegetables. A collaboration with Program Against Malnutrition (PAM). Effect and treatment in stunted and non-stunted children assessed by the use of Isotopic Technique in measuring their body composition. Not very clear.

Routine water quality monitoring for an impact evaluation of the Lusaka Water Supply and Sanitation Drainage Project. Characterization of Biosolids and Evaluating the Effectiveness of sun drying beds as biosolids stabilization method in Lusaka, Zambia Water quality assessments in cholera-prone areas of Lusaka, Zambia. Water quality assessments in new residential areas in Lusaka Zambia Characterization of Biosolids and Evaluating the Effectiveness of sun drying beds as a biosolids stabilization method in Zambia. Production of fuel grade Ethanol from locally available raw materials Optimization of a method for Nitrate Determination in Drinking Water Evaluating the effectiveness of Moringa oleifera seed powder as coagulant in water treatment We conduct needs-based research to improve people’s livelihoods by promoting low cost technologies utilizing local materials. Our work further aims to protect the environment from pollution and ensure the safety of water for drinking.

Assessment of drinking water safety in areas of Zambia with naturally occurring radioactive materials (NORMS) and development of a baseline for prospective uranium mines. Supporting Capacity Building for Characterizing Environmental Contamination. Assessment of occupational health monitoring and radiological risk due to NORM and heavy metals at Colum Coal Mine and surrounding communities Sinazeze, Southern Province, Zambia

Pineapple Project This is being implemented in conjunction with the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock and farmers in Mwinilunga and Ikelenge districts. The aim of the project is to improve yield, fruit quality and maturity. The project also compares the general performance of tissue cultured pineapple plants against conventional plants. Cassava Improvement project This is a plant breeding project. Mutation breeding technique is being exploited for the development of new varieties of cassava. Field trials are being conducted in Mansa and at the Centre in Kitwe.