STAFF
Professor Gilbert Kabelo Gaboutloeloe
Head of Department
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Agriculturalist and Biosystems Engineer holding PhD Engineering Science (Wastewater treatment), MSc Soil Conservation and Land Reclamation Engineering), BSc Agriculture
Areas of Specialisation
Soil and Water Management Engineering Science
Teaching, research and consultancy interests
Soil, Water and Atmospheric Pollution,
Water treatment and Re-Use,
Groundwater Dynamics,
Land Management
• Establishment of Sustainable Mineral Development through Strengthening of Monitoring Systems and Human Capacity towards Heavy Metal Pollution
• Factors influencing ambient air concentrations of SO2, SO4 and TSP in Gaborone
• Spatial distribution of concentrations of trace elements in some soils of Botswana and their transfer to plants
Wind Power Distribution in Botswana
Book Chapters
Sekwati-Monang B., Gaboutloeloe K.G., Likuku S.A. (2018) Investigation of Heavy Metal Hazards Status and Their Potential Health Risks in Vegetables Irrigated with Treated Wastewater in Oodi Gardens. In: Ramasami P., Gupta Bhowon M., Jhaumeer Laulloo S., Li Kam Wah H. (eds) Emerging Trends in Chemical Sciences. ICPAC 2016. Springer, Cham
Journal Papers
• Lamong D.T., P.T., Odirile and G.K. Gaboutloeloe (2024) Fixed-Bed Adsorption Dynamics of Total Organic Carbon from Gamodubu Landfill Leachate Using Biochar Derived from Gaborone Wastewater Treatment Plant Sewage Sludge. Journal of Civil Engineering and Urbanism 14(3S) ISSN-2252- 0430
• Kakooza, S.P., Mmolawa K.B., Gaboutloeloe, G.K. and A. Clift-Hill (2023)Agricultural Drainage Water Assessment for possible Reuse: A case Study from Pandamatenga Commercial Arable Farms in Botswana. International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research. 5 (5)
• Dintwe, R., Patrick, C., and G.K.Gaboutloeloe., (2022) effects of common tillage practices on soil moisture retention within a crop rooting zone in a sandy loam soil. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences 5(2) 29-33
• Gaboutloeloe, G.K., Molokwe, G, and B. Kayombo (2018) Impact of partially treated wastewater on downstream water quality of Notwane River in Botswana. Journal of Engineering Research and Reports 1 (4) 1-9
• Bedi, K., Kayombo B., Patrick C., and G.K. Gaboutloeloe (2016) The Influence of Soil Surface Conditions and Rainfall Intensity on Runoff Generation Potential in Semiarid Botswana. International Journal of Plant and Soil Science 13 (1) 1-7 DOI: 10.9734/IJPSS/2016/27719
• Likuku, A.S., K.B. Mmolawa, and G.K. Gaboutloeloe (2013) Assement of Heavy Metal Enrichment and Degree of Contamination Around the Copper-Nickle Mine in the Selebi Phikwe Region, Eastern Botswana.
Environmental Ecology Research 1 (2): 32-40, DOI: 10.13189/eer.2013.010202
• Likuku, A.S., G.K. Gaboutloeloe and K.B. Mmolawa, (2013) Determination and Source Apportionment of Selected Heavy Metals in Aerosols Samples Collected from Sebele. American Journal of Environmental Sciences Vol. 9(2): 188- 200, DOI: 10.3844/ajessp.2013.188.200
• Mmolawa K. B, A. S. Likuku and G. K. Gaboutloeloe (2012) A preliminary study of heavy metal contamination along major roads in Botswana. International Journal of Environmental Science, Management and Engineering Research Vol. 1 (1), pp. 10-19
• Mmolawa K. B, A. S. Likuku and G. K. Gaboutloeloe (2011) Assessment of heavy metal pollution in soils along major roadside areas in Botswana. African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology Vol. 5(3), pp. 186-196
• Kayombo B., F. Pule-Meulenburg, K.B. Mmolawa, M. Mzuku, R. Tsheko, N. Batisani, C. Patrick, M. Tapela, G.K. Gaboutloeloe, T Mubyana-John, J.E. Taylor, S. Machacha, R.M. Njogu and T. Motsamai (2010). Characteristics of Desert Margins Sites in Botswana: 1. Soil Factors. Bots. J. Agric. Appl. Sci. Vol 6 (2): pp 62-70
• Gaboutloeloe, G.K., Shulin Chen, Michael E. Barber and Claudio Stockle, (2009). Combinations of Horizontal and Vertical Flow Constructed Wetlands to Improve Nitrogen Removal. Water, Air, & Soil Pollution: Focus (WAFO) vol. 9 pp 279-286
• C. Patrick, Gaboutloeloe, G.K., N. Batisani, and R. Tsheko (2008) Mechanical planting of pre-soaked sorghum seeds: Towards enhancement of farmers’ adaptive capacity to climate change. Bots. J. Agric. Appl. Sci. Vol 4 (1): pp 16-21
• Gaboutloeloe, G.K., P. Monageng, O Dikinya and B.P. Parida (2006) Evaluation of temporal and spatial distribution of rainfall erosivity in Botswana. Indian Journal of Landscape systems and ecological studies Vol. 29 (1) pp 1-6.
• Kayombo B., Meulenberg F., Moganane B.G., Dikinya, O., Aliwa J.N., Nsinamwa M., Gaboutloeloe G., Patrick C. Mzuku M., Machacha S. (2005). Characterization of Agriculture-related land degradation in eastern and western parts of Botswana. Botswana Journal of Technology. Vol. Botswana Journal of Technology. Vol. 14 (1) pp 1-10.
Conference Proceedings
• Gaboutloeloe G.K., 2008. Modeling Desert Sand Flow and Dune Advance: A Case of Kalahari Desert, Botswana. In: Sorial, G.A., J. Hong, , (Eds). Environmental Science and Technology. American Academy of Sciences, Houston Texas, USA. Vol (1): pp 434-439.
• Gaboutloeloe, G.K., Shulin Chen, Michael E. Barber and Caluodio Stockle, 2008. A Review of Vegetated Submerged Bed Constructed Wetlands Performance for Nitrogen Removal. In: Sorial, G.A., J. Hong, , (Eds). Environmental Science and Technology. American Academy of Sciences, Houston Texas, USA. Vol (2): pp 174-178.
• Gaboutloeloe G.K., Likuku, A.S. and Kgaodi D., 2008. Community based flood mitigation: Case study of Tsetsebjwe village in Bobirwa Sub-District. In: Sorial, G.A., J. Hong, , (Eds). Environmental Science and Technology. American Academy of Sciences, Houston Texas, USA. Vol (2): pp 247-251
Gaboutloeloe, G.K., Shulin Chen, Michael E. Barber and Caluodio Stockle (2007) Modeling Oxygen Transfer into Vegetated Submerged Bed Constructed Wetland. In: Starrett, S. K., J. Hong, R. B. Wilcock, Q. Li, J. H. Carson and S. Arnold, (Eds). Environmental Science and Technology. American Academy of Sciences, Houston Texas, USA. Vol (I): pp 478-482.
• Likuku, A. S., Gaboutloeloe, G.K., Kgaodi, D., (2007) Back trajectory analysis of long–range transport of air masses arriving in Gaborone (24.58°S, 025.93°E). In: Starrett, S. K., J. Hong, R. B. Wilcock, Q. Li, J. H. Carson and S. Arnold, (Eds). Environmental Science and Technology. American Academy of Sciences, Houston Texas, USA. Vol (1): pp 355-359.
• Gaboutloeloe, G.K. and Patrick, C (2000) “Optimising Farming in Botswana: A case for Pandamatenga Farms.” Paper presented at the BOSHASTED Symposium, 28-30 June 2000.
• Modise D.M., Machacha S., Gaboutloeloe, G.K. and Mpuisang T. (1999) Chemical characteristics of the top and subsoil of the Chobe district of Botswana. African Crop Science Conference Proceedings, Vol. 4 pp 145-149.
• Machacha S. and Gaboutloeloe, G.K. (1999) The effect of soil salinity on emergence of onion in different soils. African Crop Science Conference Proceedings, Vol. 4 pp 151-154.
Associate Professor Justin H Chepete
Associate Professor
Associate Professor Justin H Chepete
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Associate Professor Khumoetsile Mmolawa
Associate Professor
Associate Professor Khumoetsile Mmolawa
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Khumoetsile Mmolawa is an Irrigation Engineering specialist with the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering. He holds a PhD (Irrigation Engineering) from Utah State University, USA, MSc (Irrigation Engineering) from the Cranfield Institute of Technology, UK and BSc (Mathematics & Physics) from the University of Botswana. Prof Mmolawa was a student member of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE, 1996-2000) and a professional member of the American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE, 2000-2001). He is now a professional engineer registered with the Engineering Registration Board (ERB) in Botswana. He has served as Head of Department, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture, and Acting Vice Chancellor. He has also served on regional professional bodies such as the Southern African Regional Irrigation Association (SARIA, 2000 - 2007), which is based in Pretoria
Research interest
- Soil and Water Dynamics,
- Irrigation and Drainage, modelling and Environmental Pollution.
Areas of Specialisation
- Irrigation systems design and optimization.
- Land drainage and reclamation,
- Fluid mechanics,
- Hydraulics, Irrigation and Water Conveyance,
- Computer Applications in Engineering,
- Problem Solving With Spreadsheet
Precipitation Scavenging Studies of Atmospheric Pollutants: A Relation between Meteorological Conditions and Washout Coefficients of Trace Elements and Radioactive Aerosols.
Rain Water harvesting Project in Gakuto Village. Global Environment Facility (GEF) funded project
Desert Margin Research Project, a Global Environmental Facility
funded project.
Decision Support Systems for Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources Management.
Spatial distribution of concentrations of trace elements in some soils of Botswana and their transfer to plants.
MESA (Monitoring of Environment for security in Africa).
Establishment of Sustainable Mineral Use applied with One-Health Toxicology and Smart-Mining Concept: ZAZINAMBO PROJECT
Revenue diversification pathways in Africa through bio-based and circular agricultural innovations (DIVARGI).
Selected Journal articles
- Mmolawa, K. (2025). Evaluation of soil temperature dynamics under self-regulating low energy clay-based irrigation (SLECI) and conventional drip irrigation systems in South East Botswana. Journal of the Ghana Institution of Engineering (2025) 25? pp 8-18.
- Simon P. Kakooza, Khumoetsile B. Mmolawa, Gilbert K. Gaboutloeloe, Anne Clift-hill 2023. Agricultural Drainage Water Assessment for Possible Reuse: A Case Study from Pandamatenga Commercial Arable Farms in Botswana. International Journal for Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR). Vol.5 (5):1-18, E-ISSN: 2582-2160.
- B. Kayombo, R. Tsheko, K.B. Mmolawa and E.B. Khonga 2014.
- Inventory of endangered flora and fauna in Bobirwa and Kgalagadi districts of Botswana. Journal of Agriculture and Biodiversity Research. Vol. 3(7): 99 -110, 2014.
- Likuku, A.S., Mmolawa K.B., and Gaboutloeloe G. K. 2013. Assessment of Heavy Metal Enrichment and Degree of Contamination Around the Copper-Nickel Mine in the Selebi Phikwe Region, Eastern Botswana. Environment and Ecology Research 1(2): 32-40, 2013
DOI: 10.13189/eer.2013.010202
- Likuku, A.S., Gaboutloloe G. K. and Mmolawa K.B. 2013. Determination and Source Apportionment of Selected Heavy Metals in Aerosols Samples Collected from Sebele. American Journal of Environmental Sciences Vol 9(2): pp 188-200.
- DOI: 10.3844/ajessp.2013.188.200
- Mmolawa, K.B., Likuku A.S. and Gaboutloloe G. K. 2012 A Preliminary Study of Heavy Metal Contamination Along Major Roads in Botswana. International Journal of Environmental Science, Management and Engineering Research Vol 1(1): pp 10 – 19.
- Mmolawa, K.B., Likuku A.S and Gaboutloloe G. K 2011 Assessment of Heavy Metal Pollution in Soils Along Major Roadside Areas in Botswana. African Journal of Environmental Science and Technology.Vol5(3): pp 186 – 196
- Mmolawa K. B. and D. Or 2000. Root Zone Solute Dynamics Under Drip Irrigation: A Review. Plant and Soil. 222: 163-190.
- Mmolawa K. B. and D. Or 2000. Water and Solute Dynamics A Under Drip-Irrigated Crop: Experimental and Analytical Model. Transactions of the ASAE. 43(6):1597-1608
Selected Published Referred Conference Proceedings
- Mmolawa, K. B. Estimation of Soil Temperatures Using Air Temperatures: A Case Study For Sir Seretse Khama International Airport Metereological Station: Botswana Institution of Engineers 13th Annual Conference on “ Globally Competitive Research for Innovation Through Engineering and Applied Sciences. ”, 15th -18th October 2013. Lansmore Masa Hotel, Gaborone, Botswana,pp 192-203.
- Mmolawa, K.B., Likuku A.S and Gaboutloloe G. K. Reconnaissance Study of Heavy Metal Contamination and Enrichment in Roadside Soils of Botswana In: Environmental Science and Technology 2010 (II), George A. Sorial, and Jihua Hong (Eds.), Science Press, Houston, USA, 2010, pp22-27.
- Mmolawa, K. B. 2002. An Evaluation of Potassium Nitrate Dynamics for Cropped and Non-Cropped Conditions: Botswana Institute of Engineers 8th Annual Conference on “ ENGINEERING SYNERGY IN A KNOWLEDGE – BASED ECONOMY”, 31st October and 1st November 2002. Gaborone Sun Hotel, Gaborone, Botswana,pp 125-132.
- Mmolawa, K. B., and D. Or. 2000. Evaluation of time domain reflectometry measured soil water dynamics under drip irrigation using Hydrus-2D. BOSHASTED science and technology symposium, 28th June – 1st July, Grand Palm Hotel, Gaborone, Botswana, pp 73-79
- Mmolawa, K. B., and D. Or 1999. Water and solute dynamics under drip irrigated crop. P.184. ASA, CSSA, SSSA conference proceedings ASA, Madison, WI. (91st meeting, Salt Lake City, UT, USA)
Associate Professor Rejoice Tsheko
Associate Professor
Associate Professor Rejoice Tsheko
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Professor Rejoice Tsheko is an Agricultural/ Biosystems Engineer by training. With over 30 scientific publications in International recognized journals, and 24 years in the university system, Prof. Tsheko is a seasoned lecturer and researcher. Previously, Prof. Tsheko has led the Department of Agricultural Engineering and Land Planning as a Head of Department (2001 to 2007), he developed new academic programs and developed research themes and initiated collaboration with the industry. Prof. Tsheko has led numerous international research project.
In additional, Prof. Tsheko has also served on various Boards including, BITRI, Botswana Telecommunication CorporationLimited, a P1.5B turnover business. During his tenure this former parastatal was privatized and listed in the Botswana Stock Exchange thus making it the first and only one Government entity to privatize.
Areas of Specialisation
- Engineering Mechanics,
- Soil Mechanics & Foundations,
- Remote Sensing,
- Hydraulic Structures
- Machine Elements Design.
Research interest areas
- (1) Earth Observation (EO) and Remote sensing,
- Natural Resources Management,
- Water Engineering,
- Hydraulic structures
- AI applications.
- UNESCO crosscutting on “the Application of Remote Sensing for Integrated Management of Ecosystems and water Resources in Africa”; European Space Agency (ESA) Sponsored Tiger Project; UNEP Desert Margins
- Program (DMP); AMESD (Africa Monitoring of Environment for Sustainable Development) Program and MESA (Monitoring of Environment for security in Africa).
AJ-CORE AfriWUIFire collaborative Project
- Agricultural and Biological/Biosystems/Bioresources Engineering Education: Global Perspectives and Current Practice” (CRC Press, Taylor & Francis). (in press)
- Vrieling, A., Pini, G., Tapela, M., Tsheko, R., Urbano, F., Denis, A., Rembold, F., Nègre, T., Kerdilès, H., Royer, A., Capelle, B., Delaye, N., Franco, F., Bruggeling, P. (2018). Remotely Sensed Information for Crop Monitoring and Food Security. Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations.
- Second National Communication to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Botswana’s 2 nd National Communication to the UNFCCC. Ministry of Environment, Wildlife and Tourism of the Republic of Botswana, 2012Refereed
scholarly/scientific journals articles: (selected)
- Celestine Neba Suh , Rejoice Tsheko, Benedict Kayombo, Scott Thebeetsile Moroke. 2023. Analysis of land cover land use change in the greater Gaborone area of South Eastern Botswana. Acta Ecologica Sinica.
- Moesi, M.S., Kayombo, B, Tsheko, R and E. Setlhabi. 2023. Soil erosion hazard assessment using the RUSLE model for the Taung Watershed of Ramotswa Agricultural District in Botswana. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 2023, 09(01), 029–041. https://doi.org/10.30574/wjaets.2023.9.1.0129
- Samuel Matyanga, Rejoice Tsheko, Anne Clift-Hill, Cecil Patrick. 2022. Assessing the potential of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) for sustaining small-scale irrigated coffee farming in the Bigasha watershed, Uganda. 07(02), 262–274
- Kaduyu, I., Tsheko, R., Justin H Chepete, J.H and E. Kgosiesele. 2022. Remotely sensed dry matter productivity and soil moisture content as potential predictors of arid rangeland wildfires: A case study of Kgalagadi District, Botswana. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 07(02), 143–156. https://doi.org/10.30574/wjaets.2022.7.2.0143
- Suh, C. Neba., Tsheko, R., Kayombo, B and S.T. Moroke. 2022. Variation of soil organic carbon across different land covers and land uses in the greater Gaborone region of Botswana. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 07(02), 097–112.
- Tsheko, R. 2022. Non-seasonal Landsat based bare area gain detection in Botswana during 2002 to 2020 Period using Maximum Likelihood Classifier (MLC). South African Journal of Geomatics, Vol. 11. No. 1: 84-99. http://dx.doi.org/10.4314/sajg.v11i1.7
- Tsheko, R. 2021. Land Cover Land Use (LCLU) Classification Methods in Semi-Arid Botswana. J Remote Sens GIS. 10: p497
- Mosase, E.N., Kayombo, B., Tsheko, R. and M. Tapela. 2017. Assessment of the Sustainability of Rainwater Harvesting Areas Using Multi-Criteria Analysis and Fuzzy Logic. Advances in Research, 10 (4): 1 – 22.
- Tsheko, R., Tapela, M., Mashungwa, G. and B. Kayombo. 2015. Sorghum yield and associated satellite-derived meteorological parameters in semiarid Botswana. African Crop Science Journal, 23(2): 151-164
- Favier, J.F., Ross, D.W., Tsheko, R., Kennedy, D.D., Muir, A.Y. and J. Fleming. 1999. Discrimination of weeds in Brassica crops using optical reflectance and leaf texture analysis. Proceedings of SPIE, Vol. 3543. SPIE International Symposium on Industrial and Environmental Monitors and Biosensors, G. E. Meyer, and J. A. DeShazer, (Eds.), ISBN:0-8194-3155-9, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.
Associate Professor Cecil Patrick
Associate Professor
Associate Professor Cecil Patrick
Associate Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Teaching
ELD 216 Tractor and Implement Technology
ELD 010 Workshop Practice
ELB 340 Farm Implement Technology.
ELB 321 Tractor & Implement Technology.
ELB 443 Testing & Evaluation of Agricultural Machinery.
ELB 410 Agricultural Mechanization Management.
ELB 333 Electrical Power
AEL 600 Soil Tillage and Traction
Agricultural Mechanization, Crop production machinery and management.
Water harvesting and tillage systems together with draft power management in semi-arid environments. Conservation Agriculture and related climate smart technologies suited to semi-arid Botswana.
Crop and machinery interactions including machinery testing. Engineering properties of common Botswana grains
MASTET. AFGRI Collaboration and Haskins & Sons Collaboration
- Lucky Sitayelo, Benedict Kayombo, Cecil Patrick and Ednah Kgosiesele (2024). “Eleven-year soil fertility changes in Dinogeng agricultural extension area of Kgatleng District in Botswana”. Global Journal of Engineering and Technology Advances, 2024, 18(03), 130–138.
- Samuel Matyanga, Rejoice Tsheko, Anne Clift-Hill and Cecil Patrick (2022). “Assessing the potential of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) for sustaining small-scale irrigated coffee farming in the Bigasha watershed, Uganda”. World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences, 07(02), 262–274.
- Lucky Sitayelo, Benedict Kayombo, Patrick, C. and Ednah Kgosiesele. (2022) "Integrating GIS and Remote Sensing in mapping soil erosion risk using the SLEMSA model: A case study of Dinogeng Agricultural Extension area of Kgatleng District Botswana” World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences (WJAETS). Volume 07(02) PP 001-012. (https://doi.org/10.30574/wjaets.2022.7.2.0111).
- Dintwe, R., Patrick, C. and Gaboutloeloe, G.K. (2022) "Effects of common tillage Practices on soil moisture retention within a crop rooting zone in a sandy loam soil” World Journal of Advanced Engineering Technology and Sciences (WJAETS). Volume 5(2) PP 029-033. (https://wjaets.com/sites/default/files/WJAETS-2021-0076.pdf).
- Bedi,K., Kayombo, B., Patrick, C. and Gaboutloeloe, G. (2016). “The Influence of Soil Surface Conditions and Rainfall Intensity on Run-off Generation Potential in Semi-Arid Botswana”. International Journal of Plant and Soil Science. Vol 13(1) pp 1-7.
- Baipusi, W.J., Kayombo, B. and Patrick, C. (2016). “Evaluating different soil tillage surface conditions on their water harvesting potential in Botswana”. African Journal of Rural Development. Vol. 1(1):2016, pp 91-97.
- Mpatane, O., Kayombo, B., Patrick, C., Malope, P. and Tapela, M. (2016). “An assessment of socio-economic potential for Rain-Water Harvesting (RWH) in semi-arid Bobirwa Sub-district of Eastern Botswana”. African Journal of Rural Development. Vol. 1(1):2016, pp 99-106.
- Letlhokoanyane, T.C., Chimbombi, E.M., Tapela, M., Patrick, C. and Tsheko, R. (2015). “Status of Agricultural Mechanization in Lesotho”. Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America (AMA). Vol. 46, No. 2 pp 41-46.
- Moroke, T.S., Pule-Mulenberg,F, Mzuku, M., Patrick,C. and Kashe,K., (2010). Water Harvesting and Conservation Techniques for Dryland Crop Production in Botswana: A review. Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America (AMA). Vol. 41(3), pp 9-16.
- Moroke, T.S., Dikinya, O. and Patrick, C. (2009). “Comparative assessment of water infiltration of soils under different tillage systems in eastern Botswana”. Physics and Chemistry of the Earth. Vol. 34, pp 316-323.
- Patrick C, Kechavarzi C, James I.T, O’Dogherty M and Godwin R.J. (2007). “Developing reservoir tillage technology for semi-arid environments”. Soil Use and Management. Vol. 23(2), pp 185-191.
- Patrick, C.,Mahapatra, A. and Batisani, N. (2000). “A comparative study of threshing qualities of Phofu and other sorghum varieties released in Botswana”. International Agricultural Engineering Journal Vol. 9, No. (3&4): pp 201-207.
- Patrick, C. Tapela, M. and Musonda, N.G. (2000). “Effect of Pre-soaking of Sorghum Seeds on the Performance of Two Animal-Drawn Planters”. Agricultural Mechanization in Asia, Africa and Latin America (AMA) Vol.31, No. 3 pp 31-34.
Mr Howard Masebu
Senior Lecturer
Mr Howard Masebu
Senior Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Mr Jackson Aliwa
Lecturer
Mr Jackson Aliwa
Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Civil engineer, with specialization in Irrigation and Water resources engineering. MSc in Agricultural Engineering (Soil and Water) and BSc(Eng,) with Hons in Civil Engineering.
Areas of Specialization
- Engineering system design and operation
- Water resources planning and management.
Teaching interests
- Fluid mechanics,
- Water supply for irrigation,
- Hydrology,
- Soil
- Foundations engineering.
Applications of engineering principles to develop water sources and supply for irrigation; wastewater treatment for pollution mitigation and resource reuse; rainwater capture, harvesting and utilization; reclamation of mine and agricultural wastewater and resource reuse; mitigation of environmental degradation through climate-friendly adaptations.
Ecosystem-Based Adaptation and Mitigation in Botswana’s Communal Rangelands.
Botswana National Ecosystem Assessment (BNEA).
Revenue diversification pathways in Africa through bio-based and circular agricultural innovations (DIVARGI).
- Clift–Hill, A. and Aliwa, J. N. (2019). Adopting deficit irrigation as a strategy to enhance food security in Botswana. Botswana Journal of Agriculture and Applied Sciences 13 (Issue 1 – Special): 43–50. https://bojaas.buan.ac.bw/index.php/jaas/article/view/6
- Kenabatho, P.K., Parida, B.P., Moalafhi, D.B., Mosimanyana, E., Aliwa, J.,
- Lenkopane, M., Helmschrot, J. (2014). “Development of improved database for hydrological modeling in the Notwane catchment, Botswana”. Paper presented at the Zambia Water Forum and Exhibition (ZAWAFE), 1 - 2 December 2014, Lusaka, Zambia. Conference sponsored by Southern African Science Service Centre for Climate Change and Adaptive Land Use (SASSCAL).
- Somerset, V., Aliwa, J., and C. Williams (2010). Determination of Mercury Concentrations in Freshwater Fish from Shashe Dam near Francistown, Botswana. Project Progress Report presented to the Regional Research Alliance (RRA) Board.
- Somerset, V., Aliwa, J., Williams, C., Petersen, C., Chidavaenzi, M., Itshekeng, P., Chimbombi, H. (2009). Mercury Assessment of Abandoned Artisanal Gold Mines in Francistown, Botswana. CSIR, Stellenbosch. Report No. GWDMS/PTA GEN/175435.
- Aliwa, J. N. (2009). Botswana Country Status Report. International Workshop on: “Rainwater Harvesting and Ground Water Recharge in Developing Countries - HRD and Technology Transfer” organized by NAM S&T Centre. 17-20 August 2009, Pune, India.
- Habangana, K. and J. N. Aliwa (2007). “Dynamics of Rainwater Harvesting (RWH) in Botswana: Understanding the Socio-economic Aspects for Effective Implementation of Programmes and Policies”. American Rainwater Catchment Systems Association Conference. 14-17 August 2007, Hawaii, USA
Mr Pius Emesu
Lecturer
Mr Pius Emesu
Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Food Scientist and Technologist holding MSc Food Science and Bachelor of Food Science and Technology qualifications, with 15 years teaching and research experience, 3 years food industry experience and 1 year of literary publication experience.
Specialisation
- Agricultural Processing
Teaching and research interests
- Engineering properties of foods,
- food products development,
- postharvest technology development,
- computational science and engineering (data science,machine learning, computational fluid dynamics)
- Thermal profiling and computer modelling to improve poultry housing environment in Botswana: a case for largescale broiler housing systems, 2014- 2018
• SASSCAL Task 335: Cultivation, value additionand marketing of climate smart emerging crops to improve food security in Botswana, 2015 -2018
Classification of Botswana sorghum seed varieties using machine learning
• Modiri D. Setlhoka, Koketso Motlhanka, Baghali G. Mathapa, Geremew Bultosa, Kereilemang K. Nthoiwa, Kefilwe Mmofhe, Molebeledi H. D. Mareko, Force T. Thema, Pius Emesu & Mpho G. Batlhophi. (2026). Development of eco-friendly bovine hoof gelatin-cellulose films reinforced with Myrothamnus flabellifolius extract, greensynthesized zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO Nps) and β-cyclodextrin nanocomposites. Discov Food. https://doi.org/10.1007/s44187-025-00800- 0
• Emesu, Pius, Cynthia Oratile Makgale, and Gulelat Desse Haki. (2025). Sensory and Nutritional Quality of Cookies Supplemented With Wheat Bran and Lerotse (CitrullusLanatus Var. Citroides) Pulp from Botswana. Asian Food Science Journal, 24 (4):1 -8. https://doi.org/10.9734/afsj/2025/v24i4778 .
• Pius Emesu, Justin Hakgamalang Chepete, Ellen Letsogile Thipe. (2025). Computational fluid dynamics assessment of natural ventilation in three types of large -scale broiler poultry houses in Botswana . Scientific African,27 :e02587 . https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02587 .
• Emesu, P., Dambe, O., & Kobue -Lekalake, R.I., (2025), Effects of microwave heating on textural properties of morama (Tylosema esculentum) beans. African Journal of Food Science, 19(4):39 -45. https://doi.org/10.5897/AJFS2024.2317
• Chepete, J.H., Thipe, E.L., Emesu, P., Sebolai, B., & Kgosikoma, K., (2023), Effect of Housing Design and Location on Production and Economic Performance of Broiler Chickens during Summer in Botswana. Revista Brasileira de Ciência Avícola, eRBCA - 2022 -1756. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1806 -9061 -2022 - 1756
• Emesu, P., Lentshaletse, T., Derrick, R.V., & Lasten, M., (2023), Physical and mechanical properties of morula (Sclerocarya birrea subsp. Caffra) nuts. Agric Eng Int: CIGR Journal, 25(2), pp 246 -253
Mr Patrick Diau
Instructor
Mr Patrick Diau
Instructor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Mr Patrick Diau is a dedicated and experienced instructor with over 24 years of professional experience in practical instruction, tutorial delivery, and student mentorship in the field of Soil and Water Engineering. He has developed strong expertise in irrigation and drainage systems, sustainable agricultural practices, environmental conservation, and water resource management. Throughout his career, Mr Diau has been actively involved in teaching, supervising students, and supporting academic development through hands-on training and applied research. His work emphasizes the integration of engineering principles with sustainable agriculture to address challenges related to water use efficiency, soil conservation, and environmental sustainability. In addition to teaching, Mr Diau possesses solid knowledge of research methodologies and has contributed to community-oriented projects aimed at improving agricultural productivity and promoting responsible water resource management. He is highly motivated, adaptable, and committed to advancing agricultural engineering education while fostering innovation, research excellence, and community development.
Areas of Specialization and Teaching interest
Irrigation Engineering and Water Management
Drainage Systems Design and Management
Sustainable Agriculture and Land Use Planning
Water Resources Management
Soil Conservation and Erosion Control
Environmental Conservation and Climate-Smart Agriculture
Agricultural Hydrology and Watershed Management
Optimization of irrigation scheduling and water-saving technologies under changing climatic conditions.
Application of climate-smart agricultural practices to enhance resilience to water stress and variability.
Monitoring and evaluation of soil moisture, water balance, and land degradation using field and applied research methods.
Investigation of climate change dynamics and the formulation of effective mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Mahapatra, A.K., Patrick, C., & Diau, P. (2002). Effect of Moisture Content on Some Physical Properties of Sorghum (Mahube Variety) Seeds. International Agricultural Engineering Journal, Vol. 11(1), pp. 1–10.
MSc Dissertation 2019-2022
Diau, P., Parida, B.P., Moalafhi, D.B., Nkwae, B (2022). Spatiotemporal Analysis of Climatic Drought Patterns in Botswana’s Central District Using the Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) and Vegetation Health Index (VHI). Under review.
Dr Kenneth Obrien Mpho Mapoka
Lecturer
Dr Kenneth Obrien Mpho Mapoka
Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
- PhD topic: Non-destructive measurement system to determine corn seed planting depth using ground penetrating radar for precision agriculture
Degrees
- PhD in Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Iowa State University (2018), USA.
- MEng in Mechatronics, University of Sheffield (2012), UK.
Professional Societies
- Member of American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.
- Agricultural Engineering
- Precision farming
- Mechatronics
Primary Research Areas
- Precision Agriculture, sensing and controls applicable in advanced machinery control.
Potential Research topics
- Engineering and applications of soil and crop sensors; precision agriculture
- Sensing below the roots: Low-cost networked soil moisture sensors to dynamically map the fluxes in moisture across field
- Advanced machinery
· Mapoka, K. O., Birrell, S. J., & Eisenmann, D. J. (2020). Manual and ground penetrating radar field measurements of field-corn spacing, planting depth, and furrow feature identification. Journal of Applied Geophysics, 180, 104125.
· Mapoka, K. O., Birrell, S. J., Tekeste, M. Z., Steward, B., & Eisenmann, D. (2019). Using gprMax to Model Ground-Penetrating Radar (GPR) to Locate Corn Seed as an Attempt to Measure Planting Depth. Transactions of the ASABE, 62(3), 673-686.
· Mapoka, K. O., Birrell, S. J., Eisenmann, D. J., Tekeste, M. Z., & Wu, H. (2019, November). Experimental Approach to Quantifying Synthetic Corn Seed Measurement error Using a Ground Penetrating Radar. In 2019 International Multidisciplinary Information Technology and Engineering Conference (IMITEC) (pp. 1-8). IEEE.
· Mapoka, K. O., Birrell, S. J., & Eisenmann, D. J. (2018). Application of Ground-Penetrating Radar in measuring Corn seeds (CS) Spacing and Planting depth in different soils. In 2018 ASABE Annual International Meeting(p. 1). American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers.
· Souza, A. C., Mousaviraad, M., Mapoka, K. O., & Rosentrater, K. A. (2018). Kinetic modelling of corn fermentation with S. cerevisiae using a variable temperature strategy. Bioengineering, 5(2), 34.
· Mapoka, K. O., Zuva, K., & Zuva, T. (2013). Modelling a Nonlinear Conveyor Belt System Integrated on a Closed Loop Channel. International Journal of Engineering and Innovative Technology, 3(1), 246-250.
· Mapok, K., Zuva, T., Masebu, H., & Zuva, K. (2013). Performance comparison of two controllers on a nonlinear system. International Journal of Chaos, Control, Modelling and Simulation (IJCCMS), 2(3), 17-30.
Zuva, K., Zuva, T., & Mapoka, K. O. M. (2013, January). Open Cloud Computing with Fault Tolerance. In Proceedings of World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology (No. 78, p. 606). World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology (WASET).
Mr Emmanuel Setlhabi
Instructor
Mr Emmanuel Setlhabi
Instructor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Mr Calvin Sekhesa
Senior Instructor
Mr Calvin Sekhesa
Senior Instructor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Mr Godiraone Yuyi
Senior Instructor
Mr Godiraone Yuyi
Senior Instructor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
- Earth Observation for climate risk and adaptive capacity under different landscapes, Remote sensing, Vegetation Fire&combustion characteristics in a changing climate.
- Wildland Urban Interface mapping
- Physico Chemical analysis of old Monarch mine soil tailings
- Climate Variability effects on sorghum yield for smallholder farmers in North East, Botswana
- Afri WUIFire Collaborative project
- Pursuing PhD on Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) fire characteristics using remote sensing GIS technology and Fire science
Kaduyu, I., Yuyi, G. and Kgosiesele, E., 2021. Identification of Areas for Sustainable Settlements in Highly Conflicted Protected Areas Using ArcGIS Spatial Analyst: A Case of Chobe District, Botswana. Journal of Sustainable Development, 14(5).
Ms Ellen Thipe
Lecturer
Ms Ellen Thipe
Lecturer
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Agricultural and Biosystems Engineer
BSc Agricultural Engineering, Msc Agricultural Engineering
Microclimate management of farm buildings, with emphasis on greenhouse facilities
• Thermal profiling and computer modelling to improve poultry housing environment in Botswana: a case for large-scale broiler housing systems, 2014-2018
Mechanical Engineering: CFD Thermal analysis and design of greenhouse microclimate management systems incorporating solar solutions
Book Chapters
- Thipe, Ellen Letsogile, Worhneh Tilahun Seyoum, Laing Mark and Odindo Alfred. (2017) Greenhouse Technology for Agriculture Under Arid Conditions, in eds Sustainable Agriculture Reviews, pp 37-55. Lichtfouse, Eric (Ed.). Springer
Journal Papers
- E.L. Thipe, J.E. Hoffmann, A.B. Sebitosi, Greenhouse Microclimate Management and Solar Energy - A Review of Possibilities for Botswana amid Climate Change Challenges, Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Volume 225, 2026,116145, ISSN 1364-0321, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rser.2025.116145. (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1364032125008184)
- Chepete, J.H., Thipe, E.L., Emesu, P., Sebolai, B., & Kgosikoma, K., (2023), Effect of Housing Design and Location on Production and Economic Performance of Broiler Chickens during Summer in Botswana. Revista Brasileira de Ciência Avícola, eRBCA-2022-1756. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1590/1806-9061-2022-1756Pius Emesu, Justin Hakgamalang Chepete, Ellen Letsogile Thipe. (2025). Computational fluid dynamics assessment of natural ventilation in three types of large-scale broiler poultry houses in Botswana. Scientific African,27:e02587. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.sciaf.2025.e02587
- Thipe, E.L., Workneh, T.S., Odindo, A.O. and Laing, M.D. (2020). A comparison of two greenhouse structures under sub-humid conditions in terms of changes in temperature and relative humidity. Acta Hortic. 1271, 9-16
- DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1271.2
- https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1271.2
- Thipe, E.L., Workneh, T.S., Odindo, A.O. and Laing, M.D. (2020). Effects of winter greenhouse microclimate on butterhead lettuce (Lactuca sativa var. capitata). Acta Hortic. 1271, 17-24 DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1271.3 https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1271.3
- Thipe, E.L., Workneh, T.S., Odindo, A.O. and Laing, M.D. (2020). Response of postharvest quality attributes and cultivars to greenhouse microclimate and storage conditions. Acta Hortic. 1275, 407-414 DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1275.56 https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1275.56DOI: 10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1275.56 https://doi.org/10.17660/ActaHortic.2020.1275.56
Conference Proceedings
- Thipe E.L., Teke G., Hofmann J.E.and Sebitosi A.B. Development and Validation of a CFD Thermal model for low-tech low-cost greenhouse under semi-arid conditions of Botswana. 6th International Conference on Agriculture, Food Security and Safety (Agrofood 2025, 06 - 07 August,Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
- Workneh, T.S., Ngejane, M., Thipe, E.L., Lagrange, L. and Smithers, J.C. Design, construction and performance evaluation of a multistage pad evaporative cooler for extending the shelf life of fruit and vegetables. 7th International CIGR Technical Symposium, “Recent Advances in Postharvest Technology and Agri-Food Processing- Post-Harvest Africa 2012” 25-29 November, 2012, Stellenbosch, South Africa.
Prof. Samuel Chigome
Adjunct Professor
Prof. Samuel Chigome
Adjunct Professor
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Samuel Chigome received his PhD in Chemistry from Rhodes University, South Africa. He is an Adjunct Research Professor of Materials Science and Water Purification in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). His other appointments include, Senior Researcher in Nanomaterials at the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), Head of Secretariat of the African Materials Research Society (AMRS), Head of the African Regional Office of the International Union of Materials Research Societies (IUMRS), Secretary of the Executive Committee of IUMRS, member of the International Advisory Board of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Fiber Materials (SKLAFM) at Donghua University, Vice President of the International Advanced Fiber Materials Society, member of the Editorial Advisory Board of ACS Nano, member of the Advisory Board of the US-Africa Initiative in Electronic Structure, Editorial Board Member of Discover Materials, Editorial Board Member of Sustainable Polymer and Energy and co-convener in the Condensed Matter and Materials Physics Working Group of the African Strategy for Fundamental and Applied Physics
Samuel Chigome received his PhD in Chemistry from Rhodes University, South Africa. He is an Adjunct Research Professor of Materials Science and Water Purification in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). His other appointments include, Senior Researcher in Nanomaterials at the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), Head of Secretariat of the African Materials Research Society (AMRS), Head of the African Regional Office of the International Union of Materials Research Societies (IUMRS), Secretary of the Executive Committee of IUMRS, member of the International Advisory Board of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Fiber Materials (SKLAFM) at Donghua University, Vice President of the International Advanced Fiber Materials Society, member of the Editorial Advisory Board of ACS Nano, member of the Advisory Board of the US-Africa Initiative in Electronic Structure, Editorial Board Member of Discover Materials, Editorial Board Member of Sustainable Polymer and Energy and co-convener in the Condensed Matter and Materials Physics Working Group of the African Strategy for Fundamental and Applied Physics
Samuel Chigome received his PhD in Chemistry from Rhodes University, South Africa. He is an Adjunct Research Professor of Materials Science and Water Purification in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). His other appointments include, Senior Researcher in Nanomaterials at the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), Head of Secretariat of the African Materials Research Society (AMRS), Head of the African Regional Office of the International Union of Materials Research Societies (IUMRS), Secretary of the Executive Committee of IUMRS, member of the International Advisory Board of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Fiber Materials (SKLAFM) at Donghua University, Vice President of the International Advanced Fiber Materials Society, member of the Editorial Advisory Board of ACS Nano, member of the Advisory Board of the US-Africa Initiative in Electronic Structure, Editorial Board Member of Discover Materials, Editorial Board Member of Sustainable Polymer and Energy and co-convener in the Condensed Matter and Materials Physics Working Group of the African Strategy for Fundamental and Applied Physics
Samuel Chigome received his PhD in Chemistry from Rhodes University, South Africa. He is an Adjunct Research Professor of Materials Science and Water Purification in the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering at the Botswana University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (BUAN). His other appointments include, Senior Researcher in Nanomaterials at the Botswana Institute for Technology Research and Innovation (BITRI), Head of Secretariat of the African Materials Research Society (AMRS), Head of the African Regional Office of the International Union of Materials Research Societies (IUMRS), Secretary of the Executive Committee of IUMRS, member of the International Advisory Board of the State Key Laboratory of Advanced Fiber Materials (SKLAFM) at Donghua University, Vice President of the International Advanced Fiber Materials Society, member of the Editorial Advisory Board of ACS Nano, member of the Advisory Board of the US-Africa Initiative in Electronic Structure, Editorial Board Member of Discover Materials, Editorial Board Member of Sustainable Polymer and Energy and co-convener in the Condensed Matter and Materials Physics Working Group of the African Strategy for Fundamental and Applied Physics
Dr T M Bafitlhile
Geospatial Data Scientist
Dr T M Bafitlhile
Geospatial Data Scientist
Faculty of Agriculture (Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering(ABE))
Geospatial Data Scientist (Hydrology, Climatology and Ecology) Holding Phd in Geographical Information Science and Cartography, MEng in Hydrology & Water Resource Engineering, and BSc in Soil & Water Conservation Engineering
Specialisation
- geospatial science
- hydrological processes,
- landoceanatmosphere interactions,
- and hydro-climate variability
Interests in teaching
- geospatial science,
- hydrology,
- climatology,
- water resources,
- irrigation systems.
- Simulation of streamflow and flood forecasting using machine learning techniques across contrasting hydroclimatic regimes, including humid, semihumid, and semi-arid basins. Application of datadriven hydrological models to enhance flood prediction and risk assessment.
- Coupling between surface temperature variability and oceanic– atmospheric circulation systems, and their role in modulating regional climate dynamics.
- Assessment of precipitation and temperature-driven vegetation greening over the Tibetan Plateau, highlighting climate controls on high-altitude ecosystems.
Distinct Regional Drivers of Summer Precipitation over the Tibetan Plateau: The Roles of ENSO, PDO, and AMO Classification of Botswana sorghum seed varieties using machine learning high-altitude ecosystems.
• Wang, R, Liu Y., Zhu, L., Bafitlhile, T. M., Wang, R., & Liu, Y., Tibetan lake change linked to large-scale atmospheric oscillations via hydroclimatic trajectory. Science of the Total Environment. Vol 951, 15 November 2024, 175465. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175465.
• Bafitlhile, T. M. & Liu, Y., Temperature contributes more than precipitation to the greening of the Tibetan Plateau during 1982–2019. Theoretical and Applied Climatology. 147, 1471-1488 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00704-021-03882-9.
• Bafitlhile, T. M. & Liu, Y., An asymmetric relationship between Tibetan Plateau surface temperature regimes and oceanic-atmospheric circulations. International Journal of Climatology. (2023). https://doi.org/10.1002/joc.8179.
• Bafitlhile, T. M. & Li, Zhijia., Applicability of ?Support Vector Machine and Artificial Neural Network for Flood Forecasting in Humid, SemiHumid and Semi-Arid Basins in China (2019). https://doi.org/10.3390/w11010085.
• Bafitlhile, T. M., Li, Z., & Li, Q. (2018). Comparison of Levenberg Marquardt and Conjugate Gradient Descent Optimization Methods for Simulation of Streamflow Using Artificial Neural Network. Advances in Ecology and Environmental Research, 3(2517–9454), 217–237. http://www.sspub.org/journals/aeer/vol-3/vol-3-issue-11- november-2018/
- Oladele, A. S., Fagbamigbe, A. F., & Bafitlhile, T. M. (2016), Modelling Climate Change Effects on Sustainable Transport Facilities through Time Series and Rainfall Trend Analysis of Palapye – Botswana. Proceedings of the 6th IASTED International Conference on Modelling and Simulation (AfricaMS 2016), 172–178. ACTA Press. https://doi.org/10.2316/P.2016.838-028.
• Bafitlhile, T. M., & Oladele, A. S. (2015). Modeling Extreme Flood Events for Palapye, Botswana. BIE Journal of Engineering and Applied Science, 6(1), 54– 60
• Bafitlhile, T. M. & Liu, Y., Inter-annual regime of summer precipitation with teleconnection from 1982 to 2019 over the Tibetan Plateau: Role of westerly jets. Environmental Research Letters. (2026). (Under Review).