SOUL WASHAYA: ACADEMIC LUMINARIES IN ANIMAL SCIENCES 🎓
INTRODUCTION
Soul Washaya is a distinguished academic and researcher in Animal Sciences, renowned for his contributions to livestock nutrition, sustainable agriculture, and ruminant production systems. With an extensive background in research, teaching, and academic leadership, he has played a pivotal role in advancing agricultural practices in Zimbabwe and beyond. His work focuses on improving livestock productivity through innovative feeding strategies, genetic enhancement, and environmental sustainability.
EARLY ACADEMIC PURSUITS
Born on October 6, 1979, in Zimbabwe, Soul Washaya exhibited an early passion for agriculture and animal sciences. His academic journey led him to pursue studies in livestock management, agricultural nutrition, and rangeland sustainability. With a commitment to knowledge acquisition and dissemination, he advanced in his field through rigorous research and scholarly contributions.
PROFESSIONAL ENDEAVORS
Soul Washaya has held several influential academic positions, demonstrating his expertise and leadership:
- Chairperson at Great Zimbabwe University (2023 – Present)
- Unit Coordinator at Africa University (2015 – 2019)
- Unit Coordinator (Equivalent to Chairperson) at Bindura University of Science Education (2009 – 2011)
Additionally, he has been actively involved in national advisory roles, including serving as the National Advisor for The Greenhouse Gas Inventory under the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development.
CONTRIBUTIONS AND RESEARCH FOCUS ON Medicinal Plants
Soul Washaya’s research spans multiple domains within Animal Sciences, including:
- Livestock Nutrition: Investigating the dietary effects of Moringa oleifera on poultry and ruminants.
- Sustainable Agriculture: Studying indigenous goat breeds and their adaptation to changing climates.
- Rangeland Management: Assessing grazing behaviors and their impact on native grass species in arid regions.
- Animal Health: Exploring anthelmintic activity in livestock to combat gastrointestinal nematodes.
His research has significantly influenced sustainable livestock production and environmental conservation efforts.
IMPACT AND INFLUENCE
Washaya’s expertise extends beyond academia, as he actively collaborates with governmental and international organizations to develop policies for sustainable livestock production. His role in the RCZ Smart Poultry Project is a testament to his commitment to agricultural transformation in Zimbabwe.
ACADEMIC CITATIONS AND PUBLICATIONS
With an h-index of 9, 431 citations on Google Scholar, and publications in high-impact journals, Washaya has contributed extensively to Animal Sciences. Some of his notable publications include:
- “Genotypic Parameters for Gellaper Sheep Under Arid Extensive Production System” (2024, Animal Journal)
- “Characteristics of Indigenous Goats and the Effects of Crossbreeding on Goat Performance for Rural Livelihoods Sustainability” (2025, Small Ruminant Research)
- “Dietary Effects of Moringa oleifera on Table Egg Parameters of Hybrid Layers” (2023, Discover Animal)
- “Effects of Supplementing Chloris Gayana Hay with Protein-Rich Forage Legume Hays on Chevon Quality of Xhosa Goats” (2025, Animal Feed Science and Technology)
HONORS & AWARDS
Soul Washaya has received multiple accolades for his contributions to academia and research:
- Outstanding Reviewer Award – Animal Nutrition (2024)
- Nomination for Research Chair – Gary Magadzire School of Agricultural Sciences (2019-2020)
LEGACY AND FUTURE CONTRIBUTIONS
With a strong foundation in animal nutrition, sustainable farming, and environmental conservation, Soul Washaya’s future contributions will likely further enhance livestock productivity, rural economic growth, and climate-smart agriculture in Africa and beyond. His ongoing research and collaborations will continue to influence global livestock sustainability.
FINAL NOTE
As an editor and reviewer for several reputable journals, including Acta Scientific Veterinary Sciences Journal, Washaya continues to shape the future of animal science research. His mentorship of PhD and MSc students ensures a lasting impact on the next generation of agricultural scientists.
NOTABLE PUBLICATIONS