Benjamin Wairindi (Sustainable African Futures)

Thesis title: Evaluation of ecological sustainability within refugee self-reliance strategies in Uganda

Background

Benjamin Wairindi,  a PhD candidate at the University of Edinburgh, with a co-affiliation at the University of the Witwatersrand, specializing in the intersection of ecological sustainability and refugee self-reliance in humanitarian contexts. With a background in food science and extensive professional experience working with marginalized communities in Uganda, my research focuses on evaluating and enhancing sustainable agricultural practices within refugee self-reliance models. My research contributes to interdisciplinary scholarship in refugee studies, environmental sustainability, and development policy, with practical implications for aligning humanitarian programs with global sustainability goals. 

Responsibilities & affiliations

Wits and Edinburgh Sustainable African Futures

Open to PhD supervision enquiries?

No

Research summary

My research interests center on the intersection of ecological sustainability, refugee self-reliance, and sustainable agricultural development in humanitarian contexts, with a specific focus on Uganda but with insights into the global refugee response and development strategy.

Current research interests

Currently investigating how ecological sustainability principles, such as regenerative agriculture and ecosystem restoration, can be integrated into refugee self-reliance models, particularly Uganda’s Self-Reliance Strategy turned Models, to enhance livelihood resilience for refugees and host communities in settlements like Nakivale, Rwamwanja, and Kiryandongo.

Past research interests

Formerly engaged in research relating to bridging the gap between food production, processing and consumerism while building capacity for local agro-processors to produce food products that meet export standards.