Fortunatus Bulabo Stephen Makonda, known as Bulabo Makonda, is a Tanzanian professional with a strong background in the field of forestry. He has dedicated his career to the study and utilization of forest resources in Tanzania. Makonda’s academic achievements and contributions to the field have garnered recognition and numerous awards.
Born on June 1, 1964, in Geita, Tanzania, Makonda is a Tanzanian citizen. He is currently affiliated with Sokoine University of Agriculture, where he serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Forest Products and Technology. His address is at the Department of Forest Engineering and Wood Sciences, Sokoine University of Agriculture, P.O. Box 3014, Chuo Kikuu Morogoro, Tanzania.
Makonda’s academic journey includes several notable qualifications. He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Forestry (First Class) from Sokoine University of Agriculture in July 1993. He further pursued a Master of Science degree in Forestry (Fore) from the same institution in September 1997. His research focused on non-wood forest products and their economic potentials. Makonda’s pursuit of knowledge led him to the University of Wales, Bangor (UK), where he successfully completed his Ph.D. in December 2003. His doctoral research examined Gum arabic production, utilization, economic potentials, and marketing in Tanzania.
Throughout his academic pursuits, Makonda has received numerous academic prizes and awards. These include recognition for being the best overall student in his diploma program from the Ministry of Lands, Natural Resources and Tourism in 1988. Additionally, he achieved several awards for his exceptional performance in various forestry-related subjects during his undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Makonda has actively engaged in professional development by attending various courses related to his field. These courses include general management, distance education writing, sustainable agroforestry, Japanese language, information technology, and research skills. These endeavors have equipped him with a diverse set of skills and knowledge to contribute to his work and research.
As a member of professional societies and associations, Makonda actively participates in the academic community. He is a member of the Sokoine University of Agriculture Academic Staff Association, the Tanzania Association of Foresters, the Association for the Taxonomic Study of the Flora of Tropical Africa, and the International Union of Forestry Research Organizations. Makonda’s involvement in these organizations showcases his commitment to the advancement of forestry and nature conservation.
Throughout his career, Makonda has held various academic positions at Sokoine University of Agriculture. He started as a Tutorial Assistant in the Department of Wood Utilization and progressed through the ranks, eventually becoming an Associate Professor in the Department of Forest Products and Technology. He has also served as a lecturer, senior lecturer, and assistant lecturer, contributing to the education and training of forestry students.
Before joining the university, Makonda gained practical experience as an Assistant Forest Officer in the Longuza Forest Project. This experience provided him with valuable insights into the field and further reinforced his passion for forestry and natural resource management.
Bulabo Makonda’s dedication to his profession, his extensive academic background, and his practical experience have positioned him as a respected figure in the field of forestry in Tanzania. His contributions to research, teaching, and professional organizations have made a significant impact on the development of forestry practices and sustainable resource management in the country.