On March 16, 2026, at the 139th Annual Meeting of the Japanese Society for Tropical Agriculture (JSTA) held at the University of Tsukuba, Dr. DAN Haruyuki, Senior Researcher in the Rural Development Division, received the JSTA President’s Award and delivered a commemorative lecture.
The President’s Award is presented to individuals who have achieved outstanding research achievements in the field of tropical agriculture. Established in 2025 as an award equivalent to the Society Award, Dr. Dan is its first recipient.
Dr. Dan has conducted long-term research in Africa on the use of indigenous, underutilized plant species in paddy irrigation facilities. His studies focus on preventing soil erosion through above-ground vegetation cover and stabilizing embankments through the binding action of plant roots. The outcomes of his research have been compiled into technical manuals for agricultural extension officers and incorporated into educational materials for university students, contributing significantly to both technology dissemination and human resource development.
Under the Coalition for African Rice Development (CARD) initiative, rice production in Africa doubled between 2008 and 2018, and further increases are targeted by 2030. In inland lowland areas of Ghana—expected to achieve major production gains—technologies to reinforce irrigation and drainage channels, as well as levees for stable rice cultivation, have been recognized as both timely and valuable. These developments have been praised for advancing paddy field infrastructure improvement.
Dr. Dan’s integrated efforts, spanning from scientific research to practical implementation, have been highly commended for their contribution to promoting rice cultivation in Africa, leading to this prestigious award.
Presentation of the President’s Award (Left: Dr. Dan; Right: President Ehara)
Commemorative lecture
On-site project activities (1)
On-site project activities (2)
参考
- 刊行物マニュアル・ガイドライン Manual for Improving Rice Production in Africa - Development of Low Cost Irrigation Facility applicable to Africa -
- 刊行物 国際農林水産業研究成果情報 ガーナの農家が自ら実践できる自生植物の被覆による水田水利施設の補強技術
- 情報 現地の動き 554. アフリカの農民レベルで整備した水路の機能強化
- 情報 現地の動き 588. 土水路や畦畔法面の崩落を防ぐ植物根系の土壌緊縛力