Professor Tekalign Mamo, a great champion African agriculture and soil health

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Professor Tekalign Mamo, a great champion of Ethiopian and African agriculture and soil health.

Prof. Mamo worked tirelessly in the study of soil and to improve the conventional agricultural system in Ethiopia. Respected as one of the most valued soil scientists in Ethiopia, and in the world, he contributed immensely to the advancement of soil science through his teaching and mentoring of undergraduate and graduate students and the establishment of many research programs on soil fertility and crop productivity. Just some of the qualities that led to Prof. Mamo’s position as a valued member of the CFPN Scientific Committee.

In his country, he has been a leader in knowledge transfer to farmers regarding soil fertility and fertilizer use for many years. His work has led to numerous improved nutrient management practices which have been successfully adopted by Ethiopian farmers, improving their incomes.

Prof. Mamo willingly shared his extensive knowledge. He will be remembered as a dynamic communicator – whether with students or farmers – with the special gift of being able to make complex subjects understandable, while also being a humble and approachable person.

The contribution made by Prof. Mamo has been immense, both in Ethiopia and beyond. In recognition of this he was awarded the IFA’s 2016 Norman Borlaug award.

With the passing of Professor Mamo the soils community has lost an important leader in Africa. Our memories of him – and his family – are in our thoughts at this sad time.