“Ecotoxicology of synthetic pesticides in rice growing areas of Karonga district in Malawi”
Country of Study
South Africa
Institution
Mzuzu University
Expected Year of Completion
2026
Thematic Area
Agriculture
Education
Charity’s PhD thesis is in Water Resources Management and Development. She holds an MSc in Water Resources and Supply Management from the University of Malawi – The Polytechnic. A Lecturer in Chemistry at the University of Livingstonia, she is currently in her third year of PhD studies at Mzuzu University in Mzuzu, Malawi, and is expected to complete her doctorate in 2026.
Research Summary
Charity’s research focuses on the environmental and health impacts of synthetic pesticide use in rice farming in Malawi, particularly in the Karonga district. While pesticides are used to boost rice productivity, their improper use can lead to water pollution, soil degradation, and health risks. This research will assess the levels and persistence of pesticide residues in soil and water, evaluating their effects on both the environment and public health. The study involves sampling both soil and water within rice fields and adjacent rivers, analyzing the physicochemical parameters and pesticide residues, and using statistical methods to assess significance. The findings will help inform policies for safer pesticide use, enhance sustainable agriculture, and guide climate change adaptation strategies. By investigating the interactions and degradation of pesticides, Charity’s work aims to create awareness of pesticide risks and develop guidelines that protect the health of farming communities and preserve environmental integrity.
