Dr. Henlay Magara | Food Security Awards | Innovative Research Award 

Dr. Henlay Magara, Madagascar Biodiversity Center, Madagascar

Dr. Henlay Juma Otieno Magara is a Kenyan agricultural entomologist and food security expert currently affiliated with the Madagascar Biodiversity Center. He holds a Ph.D. in Food Security from Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology, where his research focused on edible cricket species, their feed substrates, and nutritional content. He earned his M.Sc. in Agricultural Entomology from Kenyatta University and a B.Sc. in Agricultural Education and Extension from Egerton University. Dr. Magara has extensive experience in academic and research institutions, including serving as a university lecturer, high school teacher, and research fellow. He has also held leadership roles such as Head of Science Departments and Chairperson of a School Board of Management. Beyond academia, he is deeply committed to community service, volunteering as an agricultural extension worker and working to improve the well-being of vulnerable populations. His broad skill set spans scientific research, quality control, education, community outreach, and project management, making him a dedicated contributor to both scientific advancement and societal development.

Professional Profile:

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Summary of Suitability for the Innovative Research Award:

Dr. Henlay Juma Otieno Magara is a highly suitable candidate for the Innovative Research Award owing to his unique and impactful contributions to the field of food security and agricultural entomology. His research on the nutritional profiling and environmental optimization of edible crickets—specifically Scapsipedus icipe—marks a novel approach to alternative protein sources, addressing both food security and sustainable agriculture.

🎓 Education

• 🥇 Ph.D. in Food Security (2022)
  Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology
  Thesis: Cricket species composition, feed substrates, optimal temperature & nutritional content of edible cricket Scapsipedus icipe

• 🌾 M.Sc. in Agricultural Entomology (2013)
  Kenyatta University
  Thesis: Effect of Herbivore-Induced Plant Volatiles on maize pest Chilo partellus

• 🌱 B.Sc. in Agricultural Education and Extension (2004)
  Egerton University – Second Class Honours Upper Division

• 🧠 Diploma in Human Resource Management (2007)
  Kenya Institute of Management – Upper Credit

• 💻 Certificate in Computer Systems & Applications (1998)
  Skynet Computer College

• 🐄 Certificate in Animal Nutrition

💼 Work Experience

• 🧑‍🏫 University Lecturer – Lecturing and mentoring students

• 🧬 Research Fellow – Madagascar Biodiversity Center & icipe

• 🏫 High School Teacher – Moteiribe and Tala High Schools

• 🌾 Agricultural Extension Officer (Volunteer) – Gucha South Sub-County

• 🧑‍🔬 Head of Feed Development Department – Madagascar Biodiversity Center

• 🧑‍🔧 Science Department Head – Multiple high schools

• 🎓 Board Chairperson – Monianku High School

🏆 Achievements

• 🧑‍🔬 Mentored students to national & international science fairs

• 📊 Led quality audits and performance improvements in science departments

• 🤝 Organized a regional scientific conference for 69+ participants

• 🌍 Active in community health and agriculture through jigger treatment and farm support

• 📖 Weekly reading tutor for children with difficulties

• 🧑‍🏫 Inducted and trained new science teachers

• 🧠 Led collaborative teams of over 20 professionals

🎖️ Awards & Honors

• 🏅 Recognized for community service and mentorship in education and agriculture

• 🏫 Honored leadership roles in school boards and departments

• 🧑‍🔬 Earned respect as a key researcher in edible insect studies and food security innovation

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