UNIMA Shines Again! Dr. Mweso Secures $67,000 Ramboll Foundation Award

With the University of Malawi recognised as one of the region’s top universities, it is no surprise that our esteemed academic members continue to receive recognition on both the international and local stages. Just a few weeks after two of our outstanding female academics were honoured with prestigious awards in the form of the WSD-Elsevier Foundation Award and the Professor Ngeyi Ruth Kanyongolo Legacy Award, Dr. Ngcimezile Mweso, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Public Law and Clinical Legal Education, has earned the prestigious Ramboll Foundation Award. This annual research award, valued at USD67,000, is a significant accomplishment and further solidifies UNIMA’s standing as a centre of excellence in academic research.

The Ramboll Foundation Award recognizes young scientists whose work demonstrates extraordinary contributions to sustainable research. The 2024 award topic focused on environmental justice, and researchers specializing in this area were invited to submit their work. Dr. Mweso’s research stood out due to its deep integration of social equity within climate action frameworks.

Dr. Mweso’s ongoing research specifically focuses on the justice implications of climate action, with a particular emphasis on forest-based carbon sequestration projects. Her work aims to ensure these projects are both equitable and inclusive, especially for women and marginalized groups who often bear the brunt of the adverse effects of climate change. Her innovative approach to integrating social equity and environmental sustainability showcases the transformative potential of her work. The award prize will fund her research on the topic “Gender intersectionality and environmental justice for women in carbon sequestration projects in Malawi”.

The recognition opens doors for Dr. Mweso to collaborate with top-tier researchers, institutions, and industry partners, which in turn strengthens UNIMA’s global research network. UNIMA continues to foster an environment where ground-breaking research flourishes, further establishing its place as a hub for innovation and social change.