I completed my PhD in Botany at the University of Nangui Abrogoua, Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire. The central theme of my research aimed to demonstrate that floral diversity can significantly enhance the quality of human life. Throughout my doctoral studies, I developed skills in collecting and analysing floristic data, as well as conducting Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices (KAP) surveys. During this period, I focused on understanding people's perceptions of vegetation in their surroundings as potential vectors for environmental vector-borne diseases, particularly Buruli ulcer. Through interviews, we identified certain species that could potentially inhabit near water bodies and serve as reservoirs for the bacteria responsible for Buruli ulcer.
Subsequently, during my first post-doctoral program, I collaborated on a project managed by CIRAD in Côte d'Ivoire. This project aimed to assess the benefits of mixed forest plantations with native species in the ecological zone of the plantation. During the initial year of plantation, trees were intercropped with plantains. Consequently, the expenses incurred for planting were offset by the revenue generated from banana sales. Notably, associating plantains with trees proved advantageous for the latter, with a higher survival rate observed in such associations. I also contributed to documenting species descriptions and designing species cards.
Currently, I am actively engaged in a project focusing on the impact of land use on soil carbon. As part of this project, I conducted surveys to establish a historical overview of land usage and its evolution over time. Additionally, soil samples were collected and analysed in the laboratory to estimate carbon and nitrogen content. In this project, I am in charge of the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning. Thus, I produced the MEL document to be followed in the frame of the project.
I have a strong interest in evaluating the impact of the project, particularly on rural communities. Above all, I am especially interested in understanding the role of public authorities in research and development projects.