Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lesley Macheka | Climate Change | Best Researcher Award

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Lesley Macheka, Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST), Zimbabwe

Lesley Macheka is an accomplished researcher and senior academic with over 20 years of experience, specializing in climate change, food systems, and food safety. He currently serves as the Executive Director of Innovation and Industrialization at Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST) and is also the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences. Macheka holds a PhD in Food Logistics and Quality Management from Wageningen University and Research, and his work has contributed significantly to Zimbabwe’s national development strategy, particularly in the areas of climate change adaptation and food security. His commitment to scientific research and policy advocacy has earned him numerous accolades, and his leadership skills are demonstrated through his successful supervision of a research team. Macheka’s expertise encompasses climate change, indigenous food systems, and food safety management, with a focus on sustainable agricultural practices and health outcomes.

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Summary of Suitability for Best Researcher Award

Lesley Macheka stands out as a highly suitable candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award due to her extensive experience, impressive academic credentials, and substantial contributions to impactful research. With a solid 20 years in the field, Macheka has demonstrated excellence both in her work and in mentoring others, evident from her current supervision of a motivated team of 30 professionals. Her dedication to advancing knowledge is further supported by the 12 research grants she has successfully secured over the past five years, showcasing her ability to attract funding for significant research endeavors.

Macheka’s research focus on critical issues like climate change, indigenous food systems, food safety, and quality management is not only relevant but also addresses pressing global challenges, particularly in the context of Zimbabwe. Her publications—32 peer-reviewed papers in prestigious journals—highlight her commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in these areas. Her recent work, such as studies on climate change impacts on food systems and nutrition, demonstrates a deep understanding of both local and global challenges and aligns well with sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Education

Lesley Macheka holds a Doctorate in Food Logistics and Quality Management (2018) from Wageningen University and Research, The Netherlands, where he developed expertise in food systems and sustainability. He also holds a Master of Science in Food Quality Management (2010) from the same institution. His educational background is further complemented by a Bachelor of Science Honours in Biological Sciences (2003) from the University of Zimbabwe. Macheka’s academic journey has provided him with a strong foundation in food science, climate change, and health, which underpins his research focus and his contributions to the field. His continuous pursuit of knowledge is evident in the multiple advanced certifications he holds, including Climate Change and Health (2024) and Sustainable Food Systems (2023). Macheka’s education, coupled with practical experience, enables him to integrate scientific principles into innovative solutions for global food systems challenges.

Professional Experience 

Lesley Macheka’s career spans over two decades, marked by leadership roles and significant contributions to academia and research. Since 2023, Macheka has served as the Executive Director for Innovation and Industrialization at Marondera University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (MUAST), driving initiatives to integrate research with industrial applications. Additionally, he is the Acting Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, leading academic growth and innovation. Prior to this, he held the position of Director of Innovation and Industrialisation at MUAST from 2019 to 2023. Macheka’s professional trajectory includes a prominent tenure as a Senior Lecturer and Researcher at Chinhoyi University of Technology (2011-2019), where he pioneered food science research initiatives. Earlier in his career, Macheka worked with the Grain Marketing Board as a Senior Quality Assurance Officer and as a Research and Advisory Officer at the Plant Protection Research Institute. His diverse career reflects a strong commitment to advancing scientific research and sustainable food systems.

Awards and Recognition 

Lesley Macheka’s work has garnered multiple awards and recognitions, particularly in the fields of climate change, food systems, and public health. Over the past five years, he has secured 12 research grants and published over 30 peer-reviewed scientific articles. His research in climate change, food security, and indigenous food systems has been highly influential, aligning with national priorities and global sustainable development goals (SDGs). Macheka’s exceptional contributions to academia and research earned him the position of Associate Professor in Food Science in July 2024. His work continues to impact the agricultural sector in Zimbabwe, influencing policies and practices related to climate-smart food systems. Recognized as a leader in the academic community, Macheka also received accolades for his research on the nutritional and microbial quality of indigenous foods and the resilience of smallholder farmers in the face of climate change. His influence extends beyond research into community development and innovation.

Research Skills On Climate Change

Lesley Macheka possesses a deep expertise in research, particularly in climate change, food systems, and food safety management. His skills span across multiple areas, including conducting large-scale surveys, managing multidisciplinary research teams, and analyzing complex data sets. Macheka is proficient in research grant acquisition, having secured over 12 grants in the past five years, supporting various research initiatives in Zimbabwe. His work focuses on climate-smart food systems, sustainable agriculture, and the nexus between climate change and food security. Macheka is also adept at using innovative research methodologies, such as soil property analysis and the study of indigenous food systems, to address real-world challenges. His interdisciplinary approach blends food science, environmental sustainability, and health outcomes, providing actionable solutions for communities. Macheka is committed to contributing to scientific knowledge and policy formulation through his ongoing research endeavors.

Publication Top Notes

• Barriers, benefits and motivation factors for the implementation of food safety management system in the food sector in Harare Province, Zimbabwe
  • Authors: L Macheka, FA Manditsera, RT Ngadze, J Mubaiwa, LK Nyanga
  • Citation: Food Control 34 (1), 126-131
  • Year: 2013
  • Citations: 192
• Safety of wild harvested and reared edible insects: A review
  • Authors: TR Murefu, L Macheka, R Musundire, FA Manditsera
  • Citation: Food Control 101, 209-224
  • Year: 2019
  • Citations: 184
• Exploration of logistics and quality control activities in view of context characteristics and postharvest losses in fresh produce chains: A case study for tomatoes
  • Authors: L Macheka, E Spelt, JGAJ van der Vorst, PA Luning
  • Citation: Food Control 77, 221-234
  • Year: 2017
  • Citations: 61
• Nutritional and bioactive compounds composition of Eulepida mashona, an edible beetle in Zimbabwe
  • Authors: R Musundire, CJ Zvidzai, C Chidewe, RT Ngadze, L Macheka, …
  • Citation: Journal of Insects as Food and Feed 2 (3), 179-187
  • Year: 2016
  • Citations: 33
• Identification of determinants of postharvest losses in Zimbabwean tomato supply chains as basis for dedicated interventions
  • Authors: L Macheka, EJH Spelt, EJ Bakker, JGAJ van der Vorst, PA Luning
  • Citation: Food Control 87, 135-144
  • Year: 2018
  • Citations: 31
• Examining the influence of social media eWOM on consumers’ purchase intentions of commercialised indigenous fruits (IFs) products in FMCGs retailers
  • Authors: B Nyagadza, G Mazuruse, K Simango, L Chikazhe, T Tsokota, L Macheka
  • Citation: Sustainable Technology and Entrepreneurship 2 (3), 100040
  • Year: 2023
  • Citations: 30
• Impact of climate change‑induced natural disasters on intangible cultural heritage related to food: a review
  • Authors: VP Dembedza, P Chopera, J Mapara, L Macheka
  • Citation: Journal of Ethnic Foods 9 (32), 1-11
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 25
• Identifying causes of mechanical defects and critical control points in fruit supply chains: an overview of a banana supply chain
  • Authors: L Macheka, RT Ngadze, FA Manditsera, J Mubaiwa, R Musundire
  • Citation: International Journal of Postharvest Technology and Innovation 3 (2), 109-122
  • Year: 2013
  • Citations: 24
• The impact of food fortification on stunting in Zimbabwe: does gender of the household head matter?
  • Authors: T Kairiza, G Kembo, A Pallegedara, L Macheka
  • Citation: Nutrition Journal 19 (22), 1-12
  • Year: 2020
  • Citations: 23
• Contribution of edible insects to improved food and nutrition security: a review
  • Authors: F Matiza Ruzengwe, SP Nyarugwe, FA Manditsera, J Mubaiwa, S Cottin, …
  • Citation: International Journal of Food Science & Technology 57 (10), 6257-6269
  • Year: 2022
  • Citations: 18