OWSD PhD Fellowship

Winkom Noellie Kpoda

OWSD Early Career

Awarded in 2024

Winkom Noellie Kpoda

About the project

Her research project will develop a community-based integrated vector control method against malaria and schistosomiasis in a climate-vulnerable agricultural system in Burkina Faso. Population growth and climatic change in Africa have required changes in the food production system, including irrigation schemes, which in turn has generated more incidence of diseases such as malaria and schistosomiasis associated to these production systems. While the impact of irrigation on vector-borne diseases is documented, the specific levels and intensity of two specific such diseases, malaria and schistosomiasis, in irrigated systems of Burkina Faso have not been investigated in all regions. This project will investigate the disease impact of malaria and schistosomiasis in the Volta valleys of southwest Burkina Faso. In this region, large-scale irrigation has transformed over 6,000 hectares into resilient farmland, but the valley is endemic for malaria and schistosomiasis and suffers frequent flooding that exacerbates vector-borne disease risk. The research team will work with communities to develop strategies for mitigating disease risk while maintaining agricultural output. 

Field of Specialization

Agricultural Sciences

Position

Assistant Professor

About the institution