ORCID
Early Academic Pursuits:
Eltson Eteckji Fonkeng embarked on his academic journey with a profound interest in agronomy, soil science, and climate-related disaster risks. His educational background reflects a commitment to understanding the intricacies of agricultural systems and their resilience to environmental challenges. Fonkeng earned his Bachelor of Science in Agronomy from the University of Dschang, Cameroon, where he conducted research on cocoa yield evaluation and important yield factors in complex cocoa agroforestry regions. This early academic pursuit laid the foundation for his subsequent studies at the master's level, where he delved deeper into soil science and crop production, earning degrees from the University of Dschang and the University of Buea, respectively. His dissertations focused on nutrient dynamics in cocoa agroforestry systems and the nutrient status of soils in cocoa-based agroforestry systems, demonstrating a keen interest in soil health and fertility management.
Professional Endeavors:
Fonkeng's professional journey is characterized by a diverse range of roles and responsibilities in the fields of agriculture, environmental science, and disaster risk reduction. He served as a Junior Scientist at the World Agroforestry organization, where he played a pivotal role in characterizing the impact of land use change on soil carbon sequestration and nutrient dynamics. His work involved field data collection, organic matter fractionation, isotopic analysis, and the evaluation of soil macro-fauna, contributing valuable insights to the understanding of soil health in agroforestry systems. Additionally, Fonkeng has held positions as a Farm Manager at AGROWDIASPORA SCOOPS, overseeing farm operations for pineapple and fruit productions, and as a Senior Agronomist at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, where he conducted prospective analysis of agricultural policies and performance indicators.
Contributions and Research Focus On SOil Science:
Fonkeng's research focus encompasses various aspects of soil health, agroecology, and disaster risk reduction. He has conducted extensive studies on soil nutrient dynamics, organic matter dynamics, soil biology, and field crop production using good agricultural practices. His research endeavors aim to address critical challenges such as climate change adaptation, soil degradation, and disaster risk management in agricultural systems. As the Chairperson of the Africa Science and Technology Advisory Group to the African Union Commission on Disaster Risk Reduction, Fonkeng leads efforts to coordinate research activities and develop policy briefs on effective measures for managing climatic, hydrological, and geophysical risks on the continent.
Accolades and Recognition:
Fonkeng's contributions to the field of agronomy and disaster risk reduction have been recognized through prestigious awards and scholarships. He was awarded the TurkiyeBurslari scholarship by the Turkish government, providing full funding for a Ph.D. program, and received a partial scholarship from the French government for his master's studies. These accolades underscore Fonkeng's academic excellence and commitment to advancing knowledge in his field.
Impact and Influence:
Through his research, professional endeavors, and leadership roles, Fonkeng has made a significant impact on agricultural science and disaster risk reduction in Cameroon and beyond. His work has contributed to the development of sustainable agricultural practices, informed policy decisions, and enhanced resilience to environmental hazards. Fonkeng's influence extends to national and continental levels, where he actively engages with stakeholders, produces publications, and participates in events related to disaster risk reduction and agricultural development.
Legacy and Future Contributions:
As Eltson Eteckji Fonkeng continues his academic and professional journey, his legacy lies in his dedication to addressing pressing challenges facing agricultural systems and communities vulnerable to climate-related disasters. His future contributions are poised to make a lasting impact on the resilience, sustainability, and prosperity of agricultural landscapes in Africa. Fonkeng's commitment to excellence, innovation, and collaboration ensures that he will remain at the forefront of efforts to build a more resilient and sustainable future for generations to come.
Notable Publication:
Organic soil amendments and food security: Evidence from Cameroon 2022 (2)
Lessons learned from the long-term analysis of cacao yield and stand structure in central Cameroonian agroforestry systems 2017 (27)