Arba Minch University’s Biodiversity and Cultural Diversity Research Centre came into being in 2010 with an ultimate aim to conduct research on different biological (fauna, flora & microbial) diversities. In three years, it has held few national symposiums, published and disseminated two proceedings, reviewed and approved over 20 multidisciplinary project proposals and inked pacts with Ethiopian Biodiversity Institute and International University Networks on Cultural and Biological Diversity, etc.

Having had a look at efforts made so far at unit level, AMU wanted to enhance its status to research center level that would enable to address more inclusive issues. Since, then Centre is striving hard to come up to people’s expectations.

Vision

The Center aspires to consolidate its position in the region by 2020.

Mission

It’s committed to conduct demand-driven, participatory and problem-solving research in plant, animal and microbial genetic resources; collection and transfer of biodiversity information; men’s behavior, indigenous knowledge related to biodiversity conservation and use.

Values

Research, innovation, affirmative action, diversity management, quality assurance, honesty, loyalty, transparency, professional integrity, diligence, inclusiveness and competence

Objective

To ensure appropriate conservation and sustainable utilization of biological & cultural diversity

Research Priorities

Ø Endemic medicinal plants’ collection, identification, extraction and analysis of active biological compounds and identifying sociocultural and ecological values

Ø Socio-economically viable plant’s varieties to be collected, identified, analyze nutritional, sociocultural and ecological values; identify plant’s diseases and develop solution

Ø Identify underutilized crops in relation with traditional and food security values

Ø Endemic aromatic, oily, and important plants to be gleaned, identified and analyze biological active compounds and ascertain formulation of ingredients

Ø Conserve aquaculture and make sustainable use for variety of fish species

Ø Ensure wildlife inventory and status assessment of national parks

Ø Assessment of indigenous knowledge on animal production and husbandry

Ø Ecological study of plant’s diversity in national parks and forest priority areas

Ø Microbial diversity studies for biotechnological application purpose

Ø Assess cultural diversity on conservation for sustainable development in South Ethiopian Rift Valley Region

Ø Conserve indigenous ecological knowledge for climate change and mitigation

STAFF PROFILE